BURIED TREASURE: THE USE OF JEWELRY AS CURRENCY IN ANCIENT CIVILIZATION

Since ancient times, jewelry has been a part of human culture. The Egyptians, Greeks, and Romans, among other ancient civilizations, used jewelry for both adornment and religious and cultural significance.

ANCIENT EGYPTIANS

The ancient Egyptians were known for their intricate and ornate jewelry. They believed that jewelry had the power to protect the wearer from evil spirits and to bring good luck. They also believed that certain types of jewelry, such as the scarab beetle, had religious significance.

 ANCIENT GREECE

In ancient Greece, jewelry was often used to indicate social status. Wealthy citizens would wear elaborate gold and gemstone jewelry, while those of lower class would wear simpler pieces made of bronze or iron. In addition, Greek gods and goddesses were often depicted wearing jewelry in artwork and sculptures.

ANCIENT ROME

The Romans also placed great importance on jewelry, and the wealthy would wear intricate and expensive pieces made of gold and precious gems. They believed that certain types of jewelry, such as the signet ring, held magical powers.

CURRENCY

Ancient cultures used jewelry as a means of payment as well as for religious and cultural reasons. Gold and valuable gems were frequently exchanged, and they were frequently buried with the deceased to provide wealth for the afterlife.