Openwork gold bracelet with precious stones and pearls, Byzantium, 6th century

The very bottom of the so-called "Dark Ages." What do we see—barbaric luxury? No, sophistication and elegance.

Instead of the sparkle of large precious stones (or glass imitations), there's the matte sheen of small pearls. Instead of heavy, massive (or blown) gold arches, there are light, openwork lattices. Moreover, most of these patterns are on the inside, where only the wearer can see and appreciate them.

Dimensions: 10.5 x 9.5 x 4.0 cm. Weight: 239.6 grams.

Private collection, North America
_____
#historia #history #metaldetecting #mydigworld #bracelet #dirtfishing #hobbydetecting #gold #coinhunting #relichunting #Archaeology #HistoricalArtifacts #museums