Necklace c. 800

This necklace, crafted from quartz, offers a glimpse into the world of the Chavín people of ancient Peru. Though we don’t know the exact date it was made, the Chavín culture flourished between 900 and 200 BCE. Consider the historical context: the Chavín civilization was hierarchical, with distinct social classes and religious beliefs. Such a necklace may have denoted status, possibly worn by elites or religious figures. Imagine the cultural significance of quartz in a society that prized symbolic objects. Reflect on how gender, power, and spirituality are interwoven here: was it worn by men or women? What did it mean to adorn oneself in this way? The creation and use of this necklace offers a tangible connection to the lived experiences, identities, and values of a society far removed from our own.