Archaeologists at the Constantine the Philosopher University in Nitra, Slovakia, recently began examining a rare 700-year-old gold ring discovered over two decades ago near Zvolen. The ring, initially found by a treasure hunter in 2001, reached researchers in 2023, as reported by Live Science.
According to El Universo, the ring was found near Zvolen. Crafted from 18-carat gold, it is adorned with two lion heads that encircle a reddish-purple sapphire from Sri Lanka, set in a band surrounded by black. The gemstone is a 2-carat corundum, the mineral that forms both sapphires and rubies.
The ring's design is notable for its depiction of lion heads. Lions were popular heraldic animals in the Middle Ages and were considered symbols of strength, bravery, and royalty. They were also seen as symbols of resurrection in Christianity, according to Live Science. However, the appearance of such a motif on a ring is rare, making this find unique in medieval Europe.
"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," explained archaeologist Noémi Beljak Pažinová, one of the authors of the study.
To analyze the ring without causing damage, the researchers employed non-destructive techniques. They examined the light refraction properties of the gemstone and used special X-ray methods, including Raman spectroscopy and micro-X-ray fluorescence spectroscopy. Their analysis determined that the gemstone is indeed a corundum, likely originating from Sri Lanka, a source of corundum since the Roman era. The fact that the gemstone came from such a distant land indicates the extensive trade routes that existed during the Middle Ages. Researchers believe the gem probably arrived in Central Europe through trade routes that passed through Aleppo or Constantinople.
"The main difference between sapphires and rubies is their color. Rubies are red due to the chromium they contain, while sapphires occur in several different colors. We tend to think this is a sapphire," said archaeologist 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," stated archaeologist Pažinová.
While the nobility often wore rings to display their wealth, a gold ring set with precious gemstones and featuring symbolic animal motifs is a rare find from the Middle Ages.
The ring was found in one of the inner courtyards of Pustý hrad Castle, which overlooks the city of Zvolen. This prominent Hungarian royal castle of the High Middle Ages was built in the late 12th century and served as the administrative center of the County of Zvolen. The castle began to decline in the 14th century due to disuse and was neglected in the second half of that century.
Lions were a commonly used symbol in the Middle Ages, often appearing in coats of arms and heraldry. In Christianity, the lion symbolized rebirth and was associated with the resurrection. However, its depiction on rings is rare, making this piece noteworthy.
Despite the rarity of the ring, many details about its history remain a mystery. The exact circumstances under which it was lost are unknown, and the identity of its original owner is still subject to speculation. The ring's craftsmanship, featuring designs such as the two lion heads, reflects the high level of skill possessed by medieval goldsmiths. It also suggests that the wearer was someone of wealth and influence, capable of acquiring such an item.
"This exceptional find offers valuable insights into the trade routes, craftsmanship, and social hierarchies of medieval Europe," said Pažinová. The researchers shared their results in the Journal of Archaeological Science.
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