Op-shop find returned to traditional owners

When Chris Olsen saw a carved pearl shell — known as a riji — in an op-shop window and immediately recognised its potential importance.

The former Rio Tinto worker knew the shell had deep cultural significance to First Nations people in the Kimberley region of Western Australia, specifically the Bardi Jawi people.

“When I saw the riji hanging in the window of the op-shop in Perth, I immediately knew it wasn’t decorative, but something special to be returned to Country, to the people who hold its cultural and spiritual meaning,” he told the West Australian.

“My time working with traditional owners on the Dampier Peninsula was special and I learned about the significance of the riji shells from a Bardi artist and cultural leader who has since passed away.”

Mr Olsen contacted his former employer, who spoke to Bardi Jawi employees to confirm the authenticity of the item, which is believed to be over 100 years old.

The artefact has since been returned to country and traditional owner Aaron Davey thanked Mr Olsen for assisting.

“I want to thank Chris for finding and returning this very old riji back to the people and Country it belongs,” he said.