
Secrets of Viking society revealed by gold jewellery find
A metal detectorist has discovered a 1,000-year-old Viking gold braided arm ring on the Isle of Man which reveals insights into ancient jewellery making.
The arm ring, dating from 1000AD to 1100AD, consists of eight strands of plaited gold rods and weighs nearly 28 grams.
Ronald Clucas, the detectorist, expressed his shock and excitement at finding the gold piece, which gave a low signal on his detector.
Experts believe the arm ring was crafted by a skilled goldsmith and may have served as both a display of wealth and a form of currency, evidenced by cuts indicating its use in financial transactions.
Allison Fox from Manx National Heritage suggests the arm ring might have been hidden for safekeeping, lost, or buried as an offering to Viking gods. It is currently on display at the Manx Museum.
Metal detectorist on Isle of Man 'couldn't believe it' after discovering 1,000-year-old Viking gold treasure
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Press and Journal
6 hours ago
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'Responsible metal detectorists have an important part to play in researching our past. 'I certainly welcome Mr Anderson's contribution to that research by reporting the axe. If there are others reading this who have found something I simply ask that they do the same. 'Every find helps tell Scotland's story.' The Turriff detectorist added: 'I just want to know more about the history of my parents' farm, and I never thought it would go back that far. 'But we can't rely on anything metal surviving for ever in the fields anymore, as pesticides can corrode and destroy metal.'


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