Friday, August 8, 2025

The Pangao of the Ifugao

The pangao of the Ifugao: 

"The pangao (also pangaw), pango, or pang-o are two-layered translucent glass beads, with a gold foil inserted between the layers. This makes the bead look like yellow amber within which a glimmering metal is trapped. A necklace of pangao beads is usually strung with red glass beads. This is the most valuable bead ensemble among the Ifugao. It is worn by both men and women of the upper class on special occasions such as weddings and other rituals. (Francis 1992; Legarda 1977; Maramba 1998; Vanoverbergh 1929)"

Source: Museo Kordilyera calendar