Two gold rings, estimated to be around 2,000 years old, have been discovered at a newly identified archaeological site in western Thailand. Officials from the Thai government's Fine Arts Department announced the find, which occurred last week during an excavation at the Don Yai Thong site in Phetchaburi province.
The rings were found in association with human bones. One of the rings features engraved characters identified as Bhrami script, an ancient Indian writing system. Experts have preliminarily translated the inscription as “pusarakhitasa,” which means “the one protected by Pushya,” a reference to an auspicious zodiac sign in Indian astronomy. The second ring, found with the same skeletal remains, is a plain gold band without any engravings.
Archaeologists speculate that the rings’ owner may have been a merchant belonging to the Vaishya caste, a group within the ancient Indian caste system. The Don Yai Thong site, located approximately 130 kilometers (80 miles) southwest of Bangkok, was first discovered earlier this year when residents found fragments of ancient bronze drums in a rice field, prompting further investigation.
This site has been dated to Thailand's late prehistoric era, also known as the Iron Age, with settlements estimated to be between 1,500 and 2,500 years old. Since excavations began in February, archaeologists have uncovered eight human skeletons, along with gold and bronze jewelry, pottery, and other artifacts. These findings suggest evidence of ceremonial burials for individuals of high status or wealth within the society of that period.
The excavation at Don Yai Thong is anticipated to conclude in approximately one month. The Fine Arts Department has stated plans to exhibit the unearthed artifacts to the public.