During the Paleolithic age, which lasted from approximately 2.6 million years ago to 10,000 BCE, jewelry was typically made from materials that were available in the natural environment. The specific materials used varied depending on the region and time period, but some common materials used for jewelry during the Paleolithic age include:
Shells: Paleolithic people used shells to create beads and other forms of jewelry. Some shells were naturally occurring, while others were collected and crafted into jewelry.
Stones: Stones were used to create a variety of jewelry, including necklaces, bracelets, and earrings. Paleolithic people used stones that were available in their local environment, such as flint, quartz, and obsidian.
Animal bones and teeth: Paleolithic people often used animal bones and teeth to create necklaces and other types of jewelry. These materials were often shaped and polished to create decorative and functional pieces.
Ivory: Ivory from mammoths, elephants, and other animals was used to create jewelry and other decorative items. Paleolithic people often used ivory to create beads and other small objects.
Wood: Wood was used to create beads and other types of jewelry. Paleolithic people often used wood from trees such as birch, willow, and elder to create beads and pendants.
It's important to note that the specific materials used for jewelry during the Paleolithic age varied depending on the region and time period. The materials available in one region may not have been available in another, and different groups of people may have had different preferences for materials and styles of jewelry.