World Shiner
advertisement
World Shiner
advertisement
World Shiner
advertisement
Goto your account
Search Stories by: 
and/or
 

News












European researchers have released the findings of a study into a 700-year-old gold ring discovered in an abandoned castle in Slovakia. | Source: Live Science
European researchers have released the findings of a study into a 700-year-old gold ring discovered in an abandoned castle in Slovakia. | Source: Live Science

700-year-old gold ring offers wealth, divine protection

European researchers have released the findings of a study into a 700-year-old gold ring discovered in an abandoned castle in Slovakia.

The ring was crafted from 18-carat gold and featured two lion heads encircling a reddish-purple sapphire from Sri Lanka. It was discovered by a treasure hunter in 2001 and given to researchers in 2023.

The ring was discovered in a courtyard of the Pustý hrad Castle, near the city of Zvolen. The castle was constructed during the High Middle Ages, around the 12th century, and began to decline after 200 years due to neglect.

Archaeologists at the Constantine the Philosopher University in Nitra (Slovakia) have published the results in the Journal of Archaeological Science.

Noémi Beljak Pažinová, archaeologist
Noémi Beljak Pažinová, archaeologist
"This ring embodies deep spiritual meanings, protective powers, and social status, allowing the wearer to display wealth while also seeking divine protection associated with the symbols it carries."
Noémi Beljak Pažinová, archaeologist

"Bishops were required to wear such rings, which were their official symbol; this was the bishop's official ring. Therefore, it is likely that the wearer of the ring was a high-ranking ecclesiastical official," writes archaeologist Noémi Beljak Pažinová.

"This ring embodies deep spiritual meanings, protective powers, and social status, allowing the wearer to display wealth while also seeking divine protection associated with the symbols it carries.”

The fact that the gemstone came from Sri Lanka indicates the extensive trade routes that existed during the Middle Ages. It is believed the gemstone likely arrived in central Europe through trade routes that passed through Aleppo or Constantinople.

"This exceptional find offers valuable insights into the trade routes, craftsmanship, and social hierarchies of medieval Europe," writes Pažinová.

The researchers employed non-destructive techniques in their study of the ring. They examined the light refraction properties of the gemstone and used special X-ray methods, including Raman spectroscopy and micro-X-ray fluorescence spectroscopy.

More reading
French Revolution: Napoleon’s ring up for grabs
Time machine: Ancient gold ring reshapes historical understanding
Fisherman’s Ring: Jewellery plays a critical role in Pope Leo’s inauguration
Ancient jewellery: Beginner’s luck for rookie treasure hunter
Ancient shipwreck treasure ends 500-year mystery
Exceptional Jewels: Australian jewellery collectors experience rare showcase

 











SAMS Group Australia
advertisement





Read current issue

login to my account
Username: Password:
Time Supply
advertisement
Jeweller Magazine
advertisement
Soklich & Co. Jewellers
advertisement
© 2025 Befindan Media