Studies of ornaments from the Zimbabwe plateau have focused mainly on glass beads.
When other ornaments are referred to, little effort is made to produce a broad
classification to enhance broader comparisons across the spectrum of ornaments in
the region. This article examines archaeological ornaments as chronological
indicators and communication devices. The period to be covered ranges from the eight
to the eighteenth centuries AD, in southern Africa. In addition, the study attempts
to contribute to filling the spatial gap between the well-researched areas of
Mapungubwe to the south and Great Zimbabwe to the north of the Limpopo.
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.
