33 shell beads that were found in Morocco have been discovered to date back almost 150,000 years. The holes drilled through each piece were rounded at the edges, indicating that the beads were used for traditional necklaces and earrings. Image: A. Bouzouggar, Insap, Morocco

Steven Kuhn, Professor of anthropology, University of Arizona

Upon closer inspection, the holes were delicately perforated and most likely for traditional jewellery. Image: Aawsat.com

A closer view of the beads. Image: Sehasseh Et al. Science Advances via Science.org

Bizmoune Cave in Morocco where the beads were discovered. Image: Mohammed Kamal via Science.org

The 33 beads were uncovered between 2014 and 2018 by an international team of archaeologists from Bizmoune Cave in western Morocco. Image: Steven L. Kuhn via Artnet.com

33 shell beads that were found in Morocco have been discovered to date back almost 150,000 years. The holes drilled through each piece were rounded at the edges, indicating that the beads were used for traditional necklaces and earrings. Image: A. Bouzouggar, Insap, Morocco