Bronze Age Gold Ornaments found in Arran and Wigtownshire, with Suggestions as to their Method of Use

Abstract

The ornaments include a fine, hollow, penannular ring and a larger possible bracelet. There were also found about two dozen fragments of pottery characteristic of a late phase of the Bronze Period, and belonging to two vessels. The penannular object is of a type usually considered to be worn as an earring though it is argued here that it is more likely to have been worn as a hair ornament. The larger object has been made by bending into oval shape a solid gold rod, somewhat thickened in the middle of its length, and by bringing the ends nearly together. To either end has been most skilfully melted on or sweated a calyx or trumpet-shaped piece. This is also interpreted as a hair ornament.