The tema or kapkap are flat, round breast plates or disks made and worn as men’s chest or forehead ornament in the Solomon Islands. Tema is one of my favourite ornaments from the Melanesian region.
I particularly like the tema because of its spiritual meaning, its stunning appearance and temas take a long time to make, by hand. A A tema in the Melanesian culture is regarded as a spiritual object. They are worn as a protective shield during tribal warfare and for general well-being. The white part of the tema represents the moon. It is made from the giant clam shell. In the Santa Crus Islands, the traditional symbol of the frigate bird, shark or dolphin is intricately carved out of the turtle shell and embedded or attached to the clam shell base. The brown necklace is made from bark and bush ropes.
Tribalmystic Stories 
Thank you for telling us about tema. I like the idea of having something that brings us well-being just by being in our possession. ❤
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🙂 you are very welcome Christy. ❤
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Very beautiful items. It’s amazing what can be made from such things as clam shells. The designs on them are lovely, too.
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This is truly interesting and the Tema information riveting. ❤
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I so glad glad you like that Tess. Thank you so much. I nominated you to me a ‘love messenger’ – did you see that? You can follow the prompts and write four-word phrases about love – if you want. 🙂
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I DID, but I don’t do awards and things because I’m overwhelmed everyday with life and don’t have much time. So sorry. You are sweet and thoughtful to nominate me and I AM honored. Thank YOU. ❤ ❤
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You are very welcome. 🙂
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❤ ❤ ❤
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Your Tema image reminds me of the moon with two snakes intertwined. He must be a healer!
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Thank you very much for sharing Rika. Lovely to see you here. I don’t know to be honest. He may well be. 🙂 We are of many tribal groups, languages and customs in the Melanesia. I am happy to ask for you, but it may take some time to find out.
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