TEL AVIV: Archaeologists in Jerusalem have found a 2,300-year-old gold ring believed to have belonged to a child living in the Hellenistic period.
The Israel Antiquities Authority (IAA) in a statement said that the ring, with a red gem, was well-preserved and had no signs of weathering or rust.
Tehiya Gangate, a member of the excavation team discovered the ring at the City of David archaeological site.
“I was sifting earth through the screen and suddenly saw something glitter,” Gangate said. She added that the discovery is unique and not the kind you find every day.
Researchers think that the ring might belong to a child due to its small size.
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The IAA in a statement said the ring was made by hammering thin pre-cut gold leaves onto a metal ring base. According to experts, the ring was dated to around 300 BC.
The statement said the ring shows the common fashion of the early Hellenistic and Persian periods, dating from the late 4th to the early 3rd century BC when people started to prefer gold with stones rather than decorated gold.
At the time, the region was controlled by Alexander the Great. The statement said Alexander’s victories helped spread and transport luxury items.
According to researchers, the latest finding reveals that Jerusalem’s residents were following the widespread Hellenistic style and influences.
