A distinction is made between white, red and black shell money, although shells in these three colors are often strung on the same string. White shell money was the most common. It was made of different types of shell, depending on the island where one was located. Red discs were the most valuable and particularly suitable as bride price. About sixty cords were considered as a good price for a bride. Especially the chief possessed many red shell money and distributed it as a reward during major festivals. Today this traditional money is hardly used but it still serves as ceremonial payment. Pigs for ritual slaughter, brides, mask makers and dancers are paid with shell money.