Wanjibung Edwards, (Shark Bone Necklace I & II)
- Shark Bone, raffia, from cabbage palm frond, thalt
- 45cm length & 56cm length
In the Kokoberrin clan, the creation of a shark tooth necklace is not simply the act of crafting an ornament—it is a cultural practice rooted in deep knowledge, connection, and responsibility.
Traditionally, this necklace is made from the spinal cord of the freshwater shark, a creature that holds spiritual and environmental significance within Kokoberrin Country. When prepared correctly, the spinal cord hardens into a durable and flexible form, capable of lasting for many years. This process is not rushed—it requires patience, skill, and respect for both the animal and the land it comes from.
The making of the necklace is a shared responsibility between men and women. Each step in the preparation is guided by ancestral knowledge, passed down through generations. The bone is cleaned, dried, and treated using traditional methods. Every material used in the necklace—whether from tree, plant, or animal—is carefully chosen to support its stability, symbolic meaning, and endurance.
Once completed, the necklace becomes more than just an object. It is worn during the shake-a-leg dance, Thambath an important cultural expression that connects people to Country, ancestors, and the Dreaming. As the dancer moves, the necklace moves with them—reminding all present of the freshwater shark’s strength, agility, and spiritual presence. The rhythm of the dance and the motion of the necklace bring the stories of the old people into the present.
To wear the shark tooth necklace is to accept responsibility. It must be understood deeply—not just as a physical item, but as a vessel of meaning. The wearer must be spiritually connected to the knowledge it holds and respectful of the tradition it represents. This responsibility is ongoing, as the necklace is not a personal possession but a cultural belonging—it carries the story of the people, the water, and the land.
