Pearl shells, known as riji or jakuli in the Bardi language, are
associated with water, spiritual powers and healing due to the
luminous shimmering quality of their surfaces. Bardi equate the
light reflecting off the shells to lightning flashes, which are
prominent during the monsoon, and to lights flashing off the
cheeks of the Rainbow Serpent, who is closely linked to water
and rain. The tradition of interlocking designs etched into the
surfaces of pearl shells is distinctive in Aboriginal art. The
incised designs are highlighted with a mixture of ochre and
resin, which is rubbed into the grooves. Decorated and plain
pearl shells are used for rain-making and magical purposes, for
trade, in ceremonies and as personal adornments such as
necklaces or pubic covers when they are worn attached by belts
or necklaces of hairstring. Riji originate around Broome, in the
west Kimberley region. They are objects of great value and have
been exchanged along ancient trade routes over vast areas of the
continent. They appe