Title: Norwegian Man Discovers Rare Gold Jewelry Dating Back to the 6th Century
Subtitle: The University of Stavanger hails the find as the “gold discovery of the century in Norway”
In a remarkable twist of fate, a Norwegian man stumbled upon a cache of exquisite gold jewelry from the sixth century using his metal detector. Erlend Bore, who had acquired the detector for exercise purposes, could hardly believe his luck when he unearthed the extraordinary find.
The treasure consists of an array of stunning artifacts, including nine gold medallions, gold pearls, and three gold rings, with a combined weight of just over 100 grams. Dating back to approximately AD 500, the collection provides a fascinating glimpse into an ancient era.
But what truly sets this discovery apart is the unique symbolism adorning the medallions. Each medallion features a depiction of a horse from Norse mythology, making them truly one-of-a-kind. The intricate craftsmanship and attention to detail showcased in the jewelry further attest to its historical significance.
Recognizing the importance of the discovery, Erlend Bore promptly contacted archaeologists from the renowned University of Stavanger. Excitement quickly spread throughout the archaeological community, with experts from the university taking charge of the search to ensure that each artifact was carefully and systematically extracted.
Professor Lars Sembach, the Head of the University of Stavanger’s Museum of Archaeology, enthusiastically declared it “the gold find of the century in Norway.” Given the rarity and historical value of the jewelry, the find has garnered significant attention both nationally and internationally.
Further analysis revealed that the gold pendants originate from the migration period in Norway, dating back to AD 400-AD 550. Historically, pendants of this nature formed part of a “showy necklace,” often worn by society’s most powerful individuals as a symbol of prestige and wealth.
Notably, the symbols embedded in the pendants depict the Norse god Odin healing a sick horse, an image laden with mythical and cultural associations. The medallions, therefore, provide invaluable insights into the beliefs and practices of Viking-era society.
Under Norwegian law, both Erlend Bore and the landowner will be entitled to a reward for their discovery. As this exceptional find establishes a tangible connection to Norway’s past, this recognition serves as a testament to the significance it holds for the country’s cultural heritage.
The University of Stavanger’s Museum of Archaeology plans to undertake further research and conservation efforts to shed more light on this remarkable find. As the artifacts gradually unveil their secrets, they promise to rewrite our understanding of ancient Norwegian history, providing us with a closer look into a bygone era.
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