Definition of “Curio”

What is a curio? A curious question, that.

A curio is a hand-made memento offered for sale to travellers. They’re usually picked up at roadsides, outdoor markets, and so on, then packed in bubble wrap and foisted on friends, colleagues and family members who inhabit the “afterthought” category. (Shame, that’s a bit harsh. It’s also OK to buy curios for those who inhabit the “forethought” category.)

Let’s test how well you understand the concept. In the following list, which is not a curio?

• A. Soapstone Hippos
• B. Hand-Carved Salad Tongs
• C. Mini Djembe Drums
• D. Flawless 4ct. Princess-Cut Diamonds
• E. Verdite Bushmen Heads

See below to test how you did.

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Curio Test Answer

If you chose, “D. Flawless 4ct. Princess-Cut Diamonds,” congratulations! You’re a whiz. Diamonds are not curios.

SA Blog will eventually feature a curio of the week, so those who didn’t pass the test can hone their instincts.

SA Blog: Curioser and curioser!

• Curious Curio! - A Toy Cola-Can-Drumming Cyclist
• Curious Curio! - A Carved Rhino Head
• Sniff That Curio!
• Curio Menagerie, Red Hill Road
• Bargaining in South Africa

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