About 2 1/2 years ago, archeologists in Sweden unearthed a cache of whisper-thin gold foil figures at the Aska archeological site in Hagebyhöga. The delicate specimens, which depict embracing couples and date back about 1,300 years, were found at the bottom of post holes in the remains of a great hall at the historic site.
![](https://thejewelerblog.files.wordpress.com/2023/11/norwayfoil1a.jpg?w=575)
No larger than a finger nail and thinner than a piece of paper, the Swedish finds (above, right) are remarkably similar to the specimens (above, left) just salvaged from a site in Hov, a village in southern Norway. Two of five new artifacts were pulled from the bottom of post holes of a small structure dating back 1,400 years.
The Swedish team in Hagebyhöga speculated that the foils were once affixed to the upright posts that supported the great hall at the Aska archeological site. Many of the foils were found at the bottom of seven post holes. Of the 15 foils found in Sweden, every one of them depicted an embracing couple, hinting the the building may have been used for wedding celebrations.
![](https://thejewelerblog.files.wordpress.com/2023/11/norwayfoil2.jpg?w=575)
Norwegian archeologists from the University of Oslo noticed there were no drill holes in its specimens, so they were likely not worn as jewelry. Instead, they may have been presented as an offering — sacrificed within the walls and post holes during construction to ensure the safety of the building and its inhabitants. The structure measured 15 to 16 meters in length and was likely used for ritualistic functions.
The researchers believe the gold foil figures were stamped from a bronze die, similar to the way coins are made. The newly found Norwegian specimens depict a man dressed in a short robe with his feet visible. He is facing a woman embellished with bold jewelry and wearing a long gown with a train.
In Sweden, there were a number of theories regarding the identities of the couples stamped into the foil. Some speculated that they may depict princes and princesses who were about to get married, but others were convinced that the embracing couples represented the mythological union of the god Freyr and the giantess Gerdr from Norse mythology.
![](https://thejewelerblog.files.wordpress.com/2023/11/norwayfoil3.jpg?w=575)
The Norwegian researchers agree that the figures on their foils are Freyr and Gerdr, dating back to the Merovingian period in Norway, which began in the year 550 and continued into the Viking Age, according to Science Norway.
The diminutive gold stamps are distinctly Scandinavia, with the first one discovered in 1725. At that time, they were called “gullglubber,” which means “golden old men” even though many of the depictions are of female characters. The gullglubber from Norway and Sweden most often feature couples, while the ones found in Denmark usually highlight a single figure.
The gold stamps offer an idealized picture of what the elite inhabitants of Scandinavia looked like 1,300 to 1,400 years ago. The stylish characters of the Merovingian period sported fine clothing and hairstyles, while enjoying beads, brooches, drinking cups and drinking horns.
The archeological site in Hov was discovered during a project to upgrade the E6 highway between Mjøsa Bridge and Lillehammer.
Credits: Image of Norwegian specimen courtesy of The Museum of Cultural History, University of Oslo, Swedish foil image by Björn Falkevik via Academia.edu.; Image of multiple specimens by Nicolai Eckhoff/Kulturhistorisk Museum, Oslo;Archeologist Kathrine Stene image by Nicolai Eckhoff/Kulturhistorisk Museum, Oslo.
📅 Experience elegance and history at Elliott's Jewelers Estate Jewelry Event, August 22-24! Explore timeless pieces ready to tell their next story. Preview and select your favorites (like this dazzling ring) here: www.elliottsjewelers.com/from-the-vault/#categories& and book a private appointment to see them in person. Your journey through time awaits! ✨
Call Elliott's Jewelers today at (936) 661-5363 or book an appointment online www.elliottsjewelers.com/book-an-appointment/
Browse our shop online at www.elliottsjewelers.com/ ... See MoreSee Less
0 CommentsComment on Facebook
Great event. Thank you Huntsville ... See MoreSee Less
0 CommentsComment on Facebook
💎 Step back in time with Elliott's Jewelers at our August Estate Jewelry Event! From August 22nd to 24th, explore exquisite, historical pieces from our collection. Preview our treasures here: www.elliottsjewelers.com/from-the-vault/#categories& and reserve your private viewing appointment between 9:30 am and 5:00 pm. Don’t miss your chance to own a piece of history! 👑 🕰️
Call Elliott's Jewelers today at (936) 661-5363 or book an appointment online www.elliottsjewelers.com/book-an-appointment/
Browse our shop online at www.elliottsjewelers.com/ ... See MoreSee Less
0 CommentsComment on Facebook
Picture this: an 'Anniversary Diamond' that sparkles with brilliance and the memories of years together. Why not consider upgrading the diamond in your wedding ring this upcoming milestone anniversary?
It's a beautiful way to renew your commitment and add an extra chapter to your love story. 💖💍
We carry ONLY Natural Gemological Institute of America Certified diamonds. All shapes and sizes are available. All colors and clarities.
1.00 carat and larger diamonds are our specialty. Set your new diamond in some of our most beautiful and unique settings or custom design your dream ring.
Call Elliott's Jewelers today at (936) 661-5363 or book an appointment online: www.elliottsjewelers.com/book-an-appointment/
Browse online at www.elliottsjewelers.com/shop/ ... See MoreSee Less
This content isn't available right now
When this happens, it's usually because the owner only shared it with a small group of people, changed who can see it or it's been deleted.0 CommentsComment on Facebook
Mark your milestone anniversary with a special upgrade from Elliott's Jewelers.💕 Can I make this ring for you?
As your love grows, so should your diamond. Let us craft a custom ring that celebrates your journey together. Start your timeless upgrade today.💍✨
Call Elliott's Jewelers today at (936) 661-5363 or book an appointment online www.elliottsjewelers.com/book-an-appointment/
Browse our shop online at www.elliottsjewelers.com/ ... See MoreSee Less
Shop Now
5 CommentsComment on Facebook
That is a very beautiful ring! What would something like this cost?
That’s a Beautiful ring WOW!
I no longer have anniversary’s, but it’s very pretty. Thanks for sharing. JS
View more comments
🌟 Uncover the history and beauty of estate jewelry at Elliott's Jewelers this August! Join us for our exclusive Estate Jewelry Event from August 22nd-24th. Dive into our vault here: www.elliottsjewelers.com/from-the-vault/#categories& and select pieces to view at your private appointment. Book now to secure a spot from 9:30 am to 5:00 pm each day and make history part of your style! 🕰️✨
Call Elliott's Jewelers today at (936) 661-5363 or book an appointment online www.elliottsjewelers.com/book-an-appointment/ Browse online at www.elliottsjewelers.com/shop/ ... See MoreSee Less
0 CommentsComment on Facebook
Make your old jewelry work for you! 🌟 At Elliott's Jewelers, every piece holds value. Trade in your unworn treasures for funds or upgrade to something new and sparkling. Refresh your collection today. See how far your jewelry can take you with us! 💍 Find out more: www.elliottsjewelers.com/sell-your-jewelry/
Call Elliott's Jewelers today at (936) 661-5363 or book an appointment online www.elliottsjewelers.com/book-an-appointment/ Browse online at www.elliottsjewelers.com/shop/ ... See MoreSee Less
Learn More
Book an Appointment - Elliott's Jewelers
www.elliottsjewelers.com
Book an Appointment At Elliott’s Jewelers, you can be sure that you are getting the best possible appraisal for your jewelry. Our jewelry experts are trained and certified in jewelry appraisal, and ...1 CommentComment on Facebook
I have sent you pictures twice but never received a response.
🌟 Step into a world of timeless elegance with our August Estate Jewelry Event at Elliott's Jewelers! 📅 Mark your calendars: August 22nd-24th. Immerse yourself in the stories of exquisite pieces from our vault. To make this experience truly personal, we are scheduling exclusive appointments from 9:30 am to 5:00 pm each day.
Spaces are limited to ensure privacy and dedicated attention. 🕒 Book your appointment now and let us help you find a piece that not only enhances your collection but enriches your story.
Call Elliott's Jewelers today at (936) 661-5363 or book an appointment online www.elliottsjewelers.com/book-an-appointment/ ... See MoreSee Less
1 CommentComment on Facebook
Gorgeous
💎 Discover timeless treasures at our August Estate Jewelry Event! Join us from August 22nd-24th at Elliott's Jewelers. Each piece has a unique story waiting to be part of yours.
Explore our exclusive collection here and book your private appointment from 9:30 am to 5:00 pm daily. Spaces are limited to ensure personalized attention. ✨ Find your next jewel with us! See more here: www.elliottsjewelers.com/from-the-vault/#categories&
Call Elliott's Jewelers today at (936) 661-5363 or book an appointment online www.elliottsjewelers.com/book-an-appointment/ ... See MoreSee Less
1 CommentComment on Facebook
Very pretty.
Elliott’s Jewelers Huntsville,TX www.elliottsjewelers.com ... See MoreSee Less
0 CommentsComment on Facebook
Photos from Huntsville Independent School District's post ... See MoreSee Less
4 CommentsComment on Facebook
Beautiful 😍
Well done!
Thank you so much for your support & for such a beautiful piece!
Elliott's Jewelers wishes you and your family a Happy 4th of July! We will be closed on Thursday, July 4th. Elliott's Jewelers was thrilled to be part of Mitch and Lauren Fussell's love story. Do you have an Elliott's Jewelers story too? Let's celebrate by sharing it with us so we can continue making history together! Your stories inspire us every day. 🎆
Share Your Elliott's Jewelers Story: www.elliottsjewelers.com/share-your-story/ ... See MoreSee Less
1 CommentComment on Facebook
Wish I could click the “Love” and “Wow” Buttons at the same time.