Latest news with #Hellenistic
Yahoo
a day ago
- General
- Yahoo
See it: Ancient gold ring dating back over 2,000 years found in Jerusalem
JERUSALEM – A small gold ring embedded with a dark red gemstone dating back to ancient times 2,300 years ago, was recently discovered in the Jerusalem Walls National Park in Israel. The piece of jewelry was found in an excavation of a layer of earth and material from a time known as the Early Hellenistic period. Officials said this is the second gold ring found at the same site from the same time period within just a few months. They were discovered in the foundations of a large building, which connotes the wealth of those who lived inside. Several earrings were also recently discovered in the same layer. A number were made of bronze, and one was made of gold and adorned with a horned animal image and gold bead, according to officials. All the jewelry dates from the Early Hellenistic Period. How Scientists Accidentally Turned Lead Into Gold Researcher Dr. Marion Zindel surmises that the rings and the rest of the jewelry were buried intentionally. "One of the possibilities now being examined is that the jewelry found in the building's foundations was in the context of executing a well-known Hellenistic period custom in which betrothed women would bury jewelry and other childhood objects in the house foundations as a symbol of the transition from childhood to adulthood," she said. Researchers also noted that the design of the jewelry may have been influenced by trade with faraway empires at the time. Specifically, jewelry that combines gold with brightly colored gemstones was a fashion influenced by Eastern countries, such as India and Persia. "These fashionable influences were enabled thanks to Alexander the Great's conquests, and the consequent trade channels opening with these regions," officials said. How To Watch Fox Weather Those who were there when the ring was unearthed said it holds a deeper meaning. "When I held this ring in my hand, I felt part of my history," said Rivka lengler, excavator at the City of David. "I felt that I could actually touch and connect with the people who lived here in Jerusalem thousands of years ago."Original article source: See it: Ancient gold ring dating back over 2,000 years found in Jerusalem
Yahoo
2 days ago
- Science
- Yahoo
Gold rings set with garnets look modern but were likely part of a coming-of-age custom 2,300 years ago
Sign up for CNN's Wonder Theory science newsletter. Explore the universe with news on fascinating discoveries, scientific advancements and more. Archaeologists in Jerusalem say they have discovered a roughly 2,300-year-old gold ring with a red gemstone that's remarkably similar to another piece of jewelry found less than a year ago. The two rings, small enough to fit a child, were artifacts unearthed at the City of David site in the Jerusalem Walls National Park. The team analyzing the pieces believes the rings may be connected to coming-of-age ritual by young women before marriage, suggesting the items were buried intentionally. Researchers said the rings, along with bronze earrings, a gold earring resembling a horned animal and a decorated gold bead, likely come from the Early Hellenistic Period in Jerusalem. The Hellenistic era, associated with the spread of Greek culture and influence, lasted from 332 to 141 BC in the city. Remarking on the novelty of finding so much gold jewelry from this period in Jerusalem, Efrat Bocher, an excavation manager from Bar-Ilan University and the Center for the Study of Ancient Jerusalem, said in a May 21 statement that '(t)his displayed wealth is very rare in any archaeological layer, and it attests to the wealth of Jerusalem and the high standard of living of the city's residents during this period.' Recovered from the foundations of a large building, both objects were in a layer of dirt dated to the late third century or early second century BC, according to excavation managers Dr. Yiftah Shalev, an archaeologist at the Israel Antiquities Authority, and Yuval Gadot, head of the Sonia & Marco Nadler Institute of Archaeology and professor of archaeology at Tel Aviv University. The discoveries are shedding light on a chapter of Jerusalem's history known primarily from ancient texts, as only a sparse archaeological record existed — until now, Gadot said. The newfound gold ring, set with what appears to be a garnet, was in such excellent condition that excavators first thought it was a modern piece of jewelry dropped by a team member. But Rivka Lengler, one of the first excavators to examine the artifact, recognized its ancient design and called over the rest of the team. 'When I held this ring in my hand, I felt that I could actually touch and connect with the people who lived here thousands of years ago,' Lengler said in a statement. The ring uncovered at the site less than a year ago is also set with a red precious gem and lacks signs of age. 'I was sifting earth through the screen and suddenly saw something glitter,' said Tehiya Gangate, an excavation team member, in a release in 2024. 'I immediately yelled, 'I found a ring, I found a ring!' Within seconds everyone gathered around me, and there was great excitement. This is an emotionally moving find, not the kind you find every day.' Both rings would fit on a woman's pinkie finger at most, but more likely on a girl's finger, the researchers said. Dr. Marion Zindel, an archaeologist with the Israel Antiquities Authority, analyzed the rings and believes artisans made them by hammering thin gold leaf onto metal ring bases. Excavators recovered all the jewelry at the site from beneath the building's floors, suggesting the pieces were placed there on purpose, Zindel said. One hypothesis is that the jewelry was used in 'a well-known Hellenistic period custom in which betrothed women would bury jewelry and other childhood objects in the house foundations as a symbol of the transition from childhood to adulthood,' Zindel said in a statement. Associated with the Early Hellenistic Period, the trend of combining colorful gems with gold was influenced by Indian and Persian fashion and brought to the region by Alexander the Great's eastern conquests, which opened trade channels transporting luxury goods between various regions, according to the researchers. Pieces of jewelry and other finds indicate that the Early Hellenistic Period in Jerusalem was a time associated with wealth and urban planning, but the extent of its residents' prosperity and affluence wasn't previously known, Bocher said. Excavations in the Givati parking lot, located on the western slope of the City of David hill, have been ongoing for years, she said in a YouTube video sharing the discovery. The excavations have been jointly conducted by the Israel Antiquities Authority and Tel Aviv University. The team is eager to gain a better understanding of Jerusalem between the first and ninth centuries BC — a period that has been missing from the archaeological record so far — and the city's long, diverse heritage, Gadot said. The items show that the city's inhabitants were open to adopting Hellenistic cultural trends, lifestyle and architecture — which differs from traditional interpretations from ancient texts about Jerusalem. Experts previously believed the city was culturally isolated, rejecting outside influences, based on mentions in ancient texts, Gadot said. But the jewelry, and the customs associated with its burial, changes that assumption, Gadot added. Researchers now have a new way of understanding how the region was changing at the time. With few structures and artifacts from the era, it was easy to assume that Jerusalem was a small town. But the discoveries so far have uncovered an entire neighborhood including domestic and administrative buildings that extended westward from the City of David hilltop, where a Jewish temple once sat, Gadot said. In addition to analyzing the jewelry, the team will also study animal bones, coins and pottery recovered from the site to learn more about interregional connections, the origin of imported goods and even the culinary habits in Jerusalem at the time. The bones could reveal whether inhabitants practiced Kashrut regulations, or kosher Jewish dietary laws, which govern what animals could be consumed, and how they should be prepared and handled. 'We are only now beginning to explore the story of 4th-2nd century BCE Jerusalem,' Gadot said in an email. 'With the Temple at one end and the Hellenic cultural presence at the other end, we want to understand the position of the people living in Jerusalem.'
Time Magazine
23-05-2025
- General
- Time Magazine
The Top 10 Military Leaders of All Time According to AI
This article is published by a partner of TIME. Throughout history, military leaders have shaped the fate of nations and civilizations. Their strategies, vision, and ability to lead on the battlefield have determined the outcomes of wars, the rise and fall of empires, and the evolution of military thought. From ancient generals to modern military commanders, these leaders have made decisions that resonate through history and influenced both warfare and politics. Time and again, military leaders have shown remarkable brilliance, leading their forces through perilous circumstances, outsmarting their enemies, and achieving victory against overwhelming odds. Their ability to command, inspire, and adapt to ever-changing battlefields has earned them a lasting place in military history. This article takes a closer look at the top 10 military leaders of all time, whose leadership and tactics have left an indelible impact on both history and the practice of warfare. Compiled using research assistance from ChatGPT, this list features military figures whose strategies and leadership set the standard for generations. While the order and picks may be subjective, these commanders stand out for their exceptional accomplishments, military innovations, and enduring legacies. Top Military Leaders in History 1. Alexander the Great Alexander the Great, one of the most famous conquerors in history, established one of the largest empires the world had ever seen. Born in 356 BC in Macedonia, Alexander's military campaigns led him to conquer Greece, Persia, Egypt, and parts of India, creating an empire that spanned three continents. His innovative tactics, such as the use of the phalanx formation and strategic intelligence, allowed him to defeat much larger armies. Though his life was cut short at the age of 32, his empire and his influence on global history endured long after his death. Additional Insights: Conquests: His empire stretched from Greece to India, covering diverse and vast territories. Battle tactics: Pioneered the use of the phalanx formation, which was highly effective in battle. Leadership: Known for inspiring loyalty and devotion in his troops. Legacy: Helped spread Greek culture across the known world during the Hellenistic era. Key victories: Achieved major victories at the Battle of Issus and the Battle of Gaugamela. Cultural impact: His conquests led to the establishment of Greek-speaking cities across the Middle East and Asia. 2. Napoleon Bonaparte Napoleon Bonaparte, the French military leader and emperor, is often hailed as one of the greatest military tacticians in history. His campaigns, most notably during the Napoleonic Wars, redefined modern warfare through rapid maneuvers, battlefield organization, and his innovative use of artillery and cavalry. Napoleon's strategic mind led him to dominate much of Europe, expanding the French Empire across the continent. However, his ambition ultimately led to his downfall, as his defeat at the Battle of Waterloo marked the end of his reign. Additional Insights: Tactics: Famous for his innovative use of the "central point of attack" and the speed of his military campaigns. Reforms: Introduced the Napoleonic Code, which influenced civil law systems worldwide. Key battles: His victories at Austerlitz and Jena solidified his place as one of history's greatest commanders. Downfall: His defeat at Waterloo and subsequent exile to Saint Helena marked the end of his empire. Political impact: His reign changed the political landscape of Europe and resulted in the rise of nationalism. Military legacy: Many of his strategies are still studied in military academies around the world. 3. Genghis Khan Genghis Khan, born as Temujin in the 12th century, founded the Mongol Empire, which became the largest contiguous empire in history. A brilliant strategist and tactician, he united the Mongol tribes and led them in a series of conquests across Asia and Europe. Known for his ruthless methods, including psychological warfare, Genghis Khan's military genius allowed him to defeat vastly larger armies. His empire spanned from China to Europe and left a lasting impact on the regions it conquered, especially in the areas of trade and cultural exchange. Additional Insights: Empire expansion: His empire stretched to Eastern Europe, including China, Central Asia, and Persia. Leadership: United diverse Mongol tribes and established an efficient, disciplined military. Tactics: Used rapid cavalry, espionage, and psychological warfare to overwhelm opponents. Cultural influence: Encouraged trade and cultural exchange across his empire, facilitating the Silk Road. Legacy: His descendants, including Kublai Khan, continued to expand and consolidate the empire. Historical impact: Genghis Khan's reign brought major cultural and political changes to Asia and Europe. 4. Julius Caesar Julius Caesar, the Roman general and statesman, was a key figure in the transition from the Roman Republic to the Roman Empire. Caesar's military career was defined by his conquest of Gaul, where he expanded Rome's territories and made his name as a brilliant strategist. His eventual crossing of the Rubicon and the ensuing civil war against Pompey marked the end of the Roman Republic. His assassination in 44 BC, though dramatic, was a turning point in Roman history, leading to the rise of the Roman Empire. Additional Insights: Gaul conquest: Caesar's conquest of Gaul greatly expanded Roman territory and established his military reputation. Military leadership: Known for his ability to motivate and lead his troops, even in difficult circumstances. Civil war: His victory over Pompey marked the end of the Roman Republic and the start of the Roman Empire. Key battles: Led successful campaigns at the Battle of Alesia and the Battle of Pharsalus. Political reforms: Introduced reforms, including the Julian calendar, which have had a lasting impact. Legacy: His reign set the stage for the imperial system of government in Rome. 5. Winston Churchill Winston Churchill, the British Prime Minister during World War II, is remembered for his leadership during the darkest hours of the war. His speeches and unwavering resolve rallied the British people, helping them withstand the Blitz and the threat of invasion by Nazi Germany. As a military leader, Churchill was instrumental in planning key operations like the D-Day landings and forging important alliances with Roosevelt and Stalin. His leadership not only shaped the outcome of World War II but also helped to define the post-war global order. Additional Insights: World War II leadership: Known for inspiring British resilience during the Nazi onslaught. Diplomatic strategy: Played a crucial role in forming wartime alliances with the U.S. and the Soviet Union. Tactical leadership: Contributed to key military strategies, including the Allied invasion of Normandy. Oratory skills: His speeches, like "We shall never surrender," galvanized the British population. Post-war impact: Played a significant role in shaping post-war European and global politics. Legacy: Churchill's legacy as a wartime leader endures, influencing military and political leaders worldwide. 6. General Dwight D. Eisenhower Dwight D. Eisenhower, the Supreme Commander of the Allied Expeditionary Force during World War II, was responsible for the strategic planning and execution of Operation Overlord, the D-Day invasion. His ability to coordinate complex operations between the British, American, and Canadian forces was crucial in securing victory in Europe. Eisenhower's leadership helped maintain cohesion among diverse military and political groups, leading to the eventual defeat of Nazi Germany. After the war, Eisenhower served as the 34th President of the United States, continuing to influence military policy and international diplomacy. Additional Insights: D-Day: Oversaw the planning and execution of the successful Allied invasion of Normandy. Leadership style: Known for his diplomacy and ability to unite different Allied forces under one cause. Post-war presidency: Served as U.S. President, influencing Cold War-era military policy. Tactical approach: Advocated for a balanced approach to strategy, emphasizing preparation and coordination. Key campaigns: Led operations in North Africa and Italy before taking command in Europe. Legacy: Eisenhower's leadership set the foundation for post-war American military strategies. 7. Horatio Nelson Admiral Horatio Nelson was the British naval hero whose tactical brilliance during the Napoleonic Wars ensured British naval supremacy for decades. His most famous victory came at the Battle of Trafalgar, where he decisively defeated the combined French and Spanish fleets, securing Britain's control of the seas. Nelson's unorthodox tactics, often at great personal risk, and his ability to inspire his men made him a legendary figure in naval history. Despite his death in battle, Nelson's victory at Trafalgar sealed his legacy. Additional Insights: Battle of Trafalgar: Led Britain to a decisive victory that ensured naval superiority over France and Spain. Leadership: Known for his charismatic and fearless leadership, even when facing overwhelming odds. Tactical innovation: Broke traditional naval formations, achieving success with more aggressive strategies. Personal sacrifice: Died during the Battle of Trafalgar, cementing his status as a martyr and hero. Naval legacy: His tactics continue to be studied in naval war colleges today. Impact on Britain: His victory solidified Britain's dominance on the seas for the next century. 8. General George S. Patton General George S. Patton was one of the most colorful and controversial American military figures during World War II. His leadership of the Third Army during the liberation of France and his role in the Battle of the Bulge made him one of the most famous American commanders. Known for his aggressive tactics and ability to inspire his troops, Patton's unconventional methods sometimes led to friction with other leaders but ultimately contributed to his success on the battlefield. His leadership style continues to be studied by military professionals worldwide. Additional Insights: Battle of the Bulge: Played a critical role in the Allied counteroffensive during the Battle of the Bulge. Aggressive leadership: Known for his bold and unorthodox military strategies. Controversial personality: His outspoken nature and strict leadership style made him a polarizing figure. Key campaigns: Led successful campaigns in Sicily, France, and Germany. Legacy: Patton's leadership and tactics are still studied in military academies. Cultural impact: His legacy endures through films and books, where he is portrayed as a symbol of military excellence. 9. Field Marshal Erwin Rommel Erwin Rommel, the 'Desert Fox,' was a German field marshal renowned for his leadership during the North African campaign in World War II. His innovative tactics and mastery of desert warfare made him a formidable opponent. Rommel's ability to outmaneuver the Allied forces in North Africa earned him respect from both his enemies and his own troops. While ultimately defeated, his strategic brilliance remains highly regarded in military history. Additional Insights: North Africa campaign: Known for his innovative use of mechanized units in the desert. Leadership: Respected for his ability to motivate and lead his troops under harsh conditions. Tactical brilliance: Used deception and surprise to outmaneuver superior Allied forces. Posthumous reputation: Rommel's reputation as a skilled and honorable leader endures, even though he fought for the Axis powers. Battle of El Alamein: Despite early successes, Rommel's forces were eventually defeated at El Alamein. Legacy: Rommel's tactics are still studied by military professionals today. 10. General Douglas MacArthur General Douglas MacArthur was one of the most prominent American military leaders of the 20th century, known for his leadership during World War II and the Korean War. He was instrumental in the Pacific Theater, overseeing the successful campaigns against Japan. MacArthur's ability to combine strategy, diplomacy, and force made him a respected figure, but his later role in Korea was marked by controversy, leading to his dismissal by President Truman. Despite this, his leadership during the post-war occupation of Japan helped rebuild the country and shape its future. Additional Insights: Pacific campaign: Oversaw the successful island-hopping strategy that led to the defeat of Japan. Leadership: Known for his charisma and confidence, which inspired both admiration and criticism. Post-war role: Led the occupation of Japan, overseeing significant reforms and rebuilding efforts. Korean War: His dismissal during the Korean War remains a controversial aspect of his career. Key battles: Played a pivotal role in the Battle of Leyte Gulf and the invasion of the Philippines. Legacy: MacArthur's influence on post-war Japan and American military strategy remains significant. Conclusion on Top Military Leaders The military leaders highlighted in this article were not only tactical geniuses but also influential figures whose decisions and actions shaped the course of history. Their ability to lead, inspire, and strategize in the face of overwhelming challenges earned them lasting legacies that continue to be studied and admired. These leaders not only changed the outcomes of wars but also influenced the evolution of warfare itself, leaving behind lessons that resonate to this day. While we acknowledge the immense impact these military leaders had on history, it's important to remember that war has caused tremendous suffering for countless individuals and communities. Many people feel deep sorrow and loss due to the lives lost in conflicts, and the devastating consequences of war are felt long after the battles end. Though the tactics and decisions of these leaders may have shaped the world in significant ways, it's essential to approach the topic with empathy, understanding that the human cost of war is a painful reality that affects not only soldiers but also families, cultures, and nations. These are the leaders that ChatGPT identified based on their strategic genius and lasting legacies, but we must always honor the memories of those who suffered and died in the conflicts they led. Related Articles: About the Authors: Richard D. Harroch is a Senior Advisor to CEOs, management teams, and Boards of Directors. He is an expert on M&A, venture capital, startups, and business contracts. He was the Managing Director and Global Head of M&A at VantagePoint Capital Partners, a venture capital fund in the San Francisco area. His focus is on internet, digital media, AI and technology companies. He was the founder of several Internet companies. His articles have appeared online in Forbes, Fortune, MSN, Yahoo, Fox Business and Richard is the author of several books on startups and entrepreneurship as well as the co-author of Poker for Dummies and a Wall Street Journal-bestselling book on small business. He is the co-author of a 1,500-page book published by Bloomberg on mergers and acquisitions of privately held companies. He was also a corporate and M&A partner at the international law firm of Orrick, Herrington & Sutcliffe. He has been involved in over 200 M&A transactions and 250 startup financings. He can be reached through LinkedIn. Dominique Harroch is the Chief of Staff at She has acted as a Chief of Staff or Operations Leader for multiple companies where she leveraged her extensive experience in operations management, strategic planning, and team leadership to drive organizational success. With a background that spans over two decades in operations leadership, event planning at her own start-up and marketing at various financial and retail companies. Dominique is known for her ability to optimize processes, manage complex projects and lead high-performing teams. She holds a BA in English and Psychology from U.C. Berkeley and an MBA from the University of San Francisco. She can be reached via LinkedIn.
Yahoo
23-05-2025
- General
- Yahoo
Archaeologists Found a 2,300-Year-Old Ring That May Have Been a Child's Treasure
Here's what you'll learn when you read this story: Archaeological work in the Jerusalem Walls National Park within the City of David uncovered a gold ring set with a red gemstone. Experts believe the ring belonged to a child 2,300 years ago, and may have been buried as part of a ritual. It's the second such ring discovered in the area in less than a year. At some point about 2,300 years ago, when a child living in Jerusalem underwent the symbolic move from childhood to adulthood, they parted with a gold ring set with a red garnet. That ring was just found in the City of David within the Jerusalem Walls National Park, and was actually the second such ring discovered there in less than a year. Both rings have been dated to the Early Hellenistic period (and specifically, the Second Temple period), according to a statement from the Israel Antiquities Authority. Rivka Lengler—a City of David excavator present when the more recently discovered ring was unearthed—said that a worker was sifting dirt through a sieve when the ring was found. At first, they thought it was a modern ring that had been dropped by an excavator, but after a closer look, Lengler was able to tell that the ring had been waiting to be found for a long time. 'When I examined the ring,' Lengler said, 'I immediately assessed it was something ancient. We called over the archaeologists, everyone gathered around us and marveled at the special find. It was very exciting.' Officials on the excavation project, which was conducted by the Israel Antiquities Authority and Tel Aviv University working in collaboration, said that the two gold rings were both discovered in the foundation of a large building that was located in a layer of earth dating to the late third or early second century B.C. In the same layer, archaeologists found multiple bronze earrings and a gold earring adorned with a horned animal image and a decorated gold bead. 'That the two small rings and the rest of the jewelry were all discovered under the building's floors raises the possibility that they were buried there on purpose,' said Marion Zindel from the Israel Antiquities Authority. 'One of the possibilities now being examined is that the jewelry found in the building's foundations was in the context of executing a well-known Hellenistic period custom in which betrothed women would bury jewelry and other childhood objects in the house foundations as a symbolic of transition from childhood to adulthood.' With gold being so valuable, accidentally losing multiple gold pieces in the same general area isn't likely to have been the reason for the presence of these rings. But what exactly the reason was is still up for debate, as not much is known about Hellenistic period culture in Jerusalem (which may have been at odds with Jewish customs). 'These rings, along with other pieces of jewelry and the architecture we've uncovered,' Yuval Gadot of Tel Aviv University told The Times of Israel, 'are beginning to advance our understanding of the city at that time.' 'This is the first time that we have found in Jerusalem such a large assemblage of gold jewelry from that period,' said Efrat Bocher, an excavation manager. 'This displayed wealth is very rare in any archaeological layer, and it attests to the wealth of Jerusalem and the high standard of living of the city's residents during this period.' Jewelry that combines gold with brightly colored precious stones—such as the red garnet in the newly discovered ring—is heavily associated with this region during this period of history, when fashion was quite influenced by countries to the east like India and Persia. Experts on the project said that Alexander the Great's conquests influenced fashion and trade channels within these regions. The potential future discovery of Greek-inspired rituals—as well as architecture and customs not associated with Jewish traditions—may shed more light on the period. 'In order to understand more about Jerusalem's identify in the Hellenistic period,' Gadot said, 'we are going to need more discoveries and research. It will take time.' You Might Also Like The Do's and Don'ts of Using Painter's Tape The Best Portable BBQ Grills for Cooking Anywhere Can a Smart Watch Prolong Your Life?
Yahoo
22-05-2025
- Science
- Yahoo
2,300-year-old gold ring found in Israel was likely buried by a betrothed girl
When you buy through links on our articles, Future and its syndication partners may earn a commission. Archaeologists in Israel have discovered a 2,300-year-old gold ring set with a red gemstone — likely a garnet — that a youngster may have ritually buried as they left behind childhood and transitioned into adulthood. The small ring dates to the Hellenistic, or Greek, period, and was found in the City of David in the Jerusalem Walls National Park. This is the second gold ring from the early Hellenistic period that archaeologists have found there in less than a year. "This jewelry discovered now was likely buried then in the context of a well-known practice of that period, which symbolized the transition from childhood to adulthood," researchers with the Israel Antiquities Authority (IAA) and Tel Aviv University said in a statement. Archaeologists found the ring during a routine dig. "We sifted the dirt through a sieve, right near the excavation area, and suddenly Ben, who works with me, pulls a gold ring out of the dirt," Rivka Lengler, a City of David excavator, said in the statement. "At first, he was sure it must be a modern item dropped by one of our excavators, but when I examined the ring, I immediately assessed it as something ancient." Related: Ancient 'hangover prevention' ring found in Israel The archaeological layer in which the ring was found dates to the late third or early second century B.C., also known as the Second Temple period, which lasted while the Second Temple stood in Jerusalem from about 516 B.C. to A.D. 70, when the Romans destroyed it. This layer has yielded other valuable artifacts, including bronze earrings, a gold earring with a depiction of a horned animal, and a decorated gold bead. The newfound ring was unearthed in the foundations of a large building, suggesting that whoever lived there was wealthy, the researchers said in the statement. And the fact that t several precious artifacts have been found in the area suggests that whoever buried them may have been following a custom. "That the two small rings and the rest of the jewelry were all discovered under the building's floors raises the possibility that they were buried there on purpose," Marion Zindel, an archaeologist with the IAA who analyzed the ring, said in the statement. The ring may have been buried as part of a coming-of-age ritual, which was a "well-known Hellenistic period custom," she said. "Betrothed women would bury jewelry and other childhood objects in the house foundations as a symbol of the transition from childhood to adulthood," Zindel explained. RELATED STORIES —3-year-old picks up 'beautiful stone,' discovers 3,800-year-old scarab amulet in Israel —2,000-year-old seal depicting Greek god Apollo found in Jerusalem —2 ancient stone coffins for husband and wife unearthed at Israeli wildlife park The ring's gemstone also fits into trends from that time. "Jewelry that combines gold with brightly colored precious stones, such as the garnet stone, were well-known from this period, in which fashion was influenced by Eastern countries such as India and Persia," the researchers said in the statement. "These fashionable influences were enabled thanks to Alexander the Great's conquests, and the consequent trade channels opening with these regions." This is far from the only Hellenistic finding in Israel linked to Alexander the Great. In 2023, archaeologists announced they had found the roadside burial of a Greek courtesan who had been buried with an ornate bronze mirror. Researchers believe this woman was accompanying the Macedonian king's armies when she died 2,300 years ago.
