LAMONZIE-SAINT-MARTIN, FRANCE Archaeologists in southwestern France have uncovered a cremation burial containing coins, gold jewelry, and an inscribed ring, according to Live Science. The research, led by Frédéric Prodéo of the French National Institute of Preventive Archaeological Research, revealed that the individual had been cremated over a rectangular grave, called a bustum, and then buried immediately, dating to between the 1st and 3rd centuries A.D.
The excavation also uncovered a ceramic beaker and a clear glass vial placed in one corner of the grave. Other items included silver and bronze coins, gold sheets that may have once decorated a purse or container, a set of lozenge-shaped crystals possibly used as adornments on leather, and a corroded metal object thought to be a horse bit. Among the gold finds were a bulla an amulet traditionally worn by Roman boys until age 16 and a gold ring, damaged by fire, which may have been inscribed with the deceased’s name.
The range of artifacts suggests the individual may have held some wealth or status, and the careful placement of items in the grave reflects the funerary practices of the Roman period in this region of France.
