Elephants and their ivory tusks are very important in many African cultures. Ivory symbolizes wealth and leadership, and shows that the ruler has the power of an elephant. Among the Kongo peoples, ivory tusks are decorated with carving that spirals from the bottom to the top. The carved images do not tell a continuous story, but present positive scenes of everyday life and European influence.

The durability and beauty of ivory is admired by all and a variety of pendants are carried and worn by individuals. Pendants may be passed on from generation to generation.