Description (Labels & Markings)
Old display label reads: 'and Magatama are ornaments not currency.'
Event Date
Author: ashleigh griffin

Description (Labels & Markings)
Old display label reads: 'Magatama.'
Event Date
Author: ashleigh griffin

Context (References)
Clarke's note: "There has been much discussion as to the nature and significance of the Magatama. It has been suggested that they are embryonic forms, but it is more likely that they were shaped after the claw of some animal - possibly a tiger. This is supported by the existence of claw-shaped stones - closely resembling the talon of the tiger, one in my collection being almost an exact model. The tiger's claw is the strongest of amulets, even to this day in Korea. Lastly, the word 'Magatama' which is supposed to come from 'Maga' (curved) and 'Tama' (a gem), may, with equal propuity as it seems to me, derive its latter portion from the archaic form of 'Tsume' namely 'Tume', (a talon or nail). The character in which it was written was given to it long after its coming into favour and about two centuries before the end of the dolmen period. "
Event Date
Author: ashleigh griffin

Description (Physical description)
Eight claw or comma shaped "claws" of agate. Prehistoric symbols, used as a means or token of wealth
Event Date
Author: ashleigh griffin

Description (Physical description)
A 'magatama', a curved comma-shaped bead of agate. This is a prehistoric symbol, used as a token of wealth. This token is almost transparent with some orange and brown patches. There is a small round hole drilled into the surface at one end.
Event Date 21/1/2019
Author: ashleigh griffin