Arm rings are synonymous with wealth on the Solomon Islands. They are made from the giant clam Tridacna gigas. The more golden the shell the more valuable the ring. The material of the most highly valued rings is provided from the yellower fossil shells. Such rings are called bakia. Plain arm rings are used for buying food and articles of ordinary use. The older and yellower ones, on the other hand, have much higher purchasing powers. A single bakia would pay the bride price or buy 1000 coconuts or a very good pig.