Help to Identify Antique Folk Art Pin?

by Renee Greenberg
(Escondido, CA)

I have been unable to find out any information on a pin I inherited from my aunt 59 years ago and would appreciate any and all thoughts on what might be the origins, age, value, etc? I wore the piece only once 59 years ago and a woman commented to my mother why were they letting me where such a valuable item.

I was never allowed to wear it after that. It measures about 5" x 3.5". It's made out of some type of wood and metal beads. I don't know it's true age but my aunt said it was old before I received it. For some reason I was thinking it was possibly an African piece. I appreciate any information. Thank you!