Wampum (noun)

1. Beads made from shells, traditionally used by certain Native American tribes as a form of currency, jewelry, and ceremonial decoration.
2. Traditional currency of certain Native American tribes, made from shells and used for jewelry, ceremonial decoration, and trade.

Origin:

From the algonquin word wampumpeag meaning white shell beads.

Examples:

1. The wampum belt was an important symbol of the Native American culture.
2. The wampum beads were used as money by the native tribes.
3. The wampum necklace was a symbol of wealth and status.
4. He made a wampum belt as a gift.
5. The wampum was used as a ceremonial item in the tribe.