Hi Jim,
I'm glad these articles are of help.
Katana, it seems that each metal has some link to religion and mythology, not only in Africa, but the rest of the world as well. In Africa, specific metals may represent specific concepts and divine powers. The article above provides numerous examples from different peoples to this respect, and to answer your question about aluminium: "...aluminium, which has only been in use since the end of the nineteenth century, has not...made its way into myth and oral tradition, although it is often used now even in cult jewellery." Its rarity would probably account for its popularity.
Tim, the iron tools encrusted with copper/brass in the article, did indeed have it only on small areas. Even a small amount was apparently enough to counter the iron's negative properties.
It's interesting that such a simple and common (nowadays) material such as copper and its various forms was and still is so appealing to certain cultures. Its diversity -colour, form, proeprties- and its rarity on the African continent seem to have made it more desirable than gold. This really brings home the point that one culture's trash may be another's treasure.
Regards,
Emanuel
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