Tabua. Tooth from a tovuto (sperm whale). An iyau (treasure) of high cultural value to Fijians. Still in natural, unworked condition (not polished or ground smooth). The tabua is kidney bean shaped and ovoid in cross section. The outer surface of the tabua is a pale yellow colour, grainy and rough to the touch although smoother at the tip. The natural grooves all over the surface of the tabua run two-thirds of its length. A deep horizontal nick in the enamel. A shallow cavity at the base of the tabua with natural nodes formed from the enamel.