Necklace (waseisei) of sperm-whale teeth

The tabua (sperm-whale tooth) was an important element of ceremonial exchange in Fiji, Tonga and Samoa. In Fiji’s complex centralized society, the chiefs gave sperm-whale teeth to warriors and their associates. Prominent figures wore necklaces with split and polished sperm-whale teeth.

In Samoa, seaworthy boats from Fiji were purchased with whaleteeth. The necklaces were intended for the taupou or manaia, young girls and young men of noble rank, serving at village ceremonies, such as the preparation of kava for visitors.

The technique for working with whale teeth, which probably originated in Samoa, declined at the end of the 19th century.