Unique Theodoxus jordani shell beads from the Middle Chalcolithic site of Tel Tsaf (ca. 5200–4700 cal BC), Jordan Valley, Israel

Shells were among the first natural resources humans modified and used for ornaments. The use of shells as decorative paraphernalia is common in many regions and periods, and while some of these reflect long-distance trade, in some cases we see a selection of local species over more exotic ones. The current paper presents an assemblage of Theodoxus jordani shell beads found at the late sixth to the early fifth millennium BC Tel Tsaf, Jordan Valley, Israel. The paper discusses their provenience and morphological characteristics and the technology used to create the holes through which string could attach them to clothes or allow a person to wear them as adorning jewellery.