Anglo Saxon Garnet Pendant
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Date: Early 7th Century Object Details: This object comprises of a wonderful garnet set in pure gold with a patterned surface below it to scatter the light. It would have been worn by a female of high status. She may have worn it at the centre of a string of beads secured to a brooch on each of her shoulders, rather than on a gold chain as we would. The stone, which is an unusual shape, is a rare object described as a 'low cut Cabochon bar'. The British Museum thinks that the stone dates to the late fifth century (450-500), but the pendant was made in the early 7th century (600-650). Its shape suggests that it was originally fitted into military gear which was fashionable in the Black sea region (the area north of Turkey), at that time. We will never know exactly where it was first made, or whether it travelled to England as a warrior's decoration. Perhaps it was given to his sweetheart as a love token? However it came into being, this object shows that re-cycling is not a modern concern as well as the widespread trade or travel occurring in the early medieval period. Amendment: This object was discovered in the Sapcote Parish, close to Sharnford. Find Out More: Tell Us More!
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Ruth
Arthur 
Was not this object discovered in south west Leicestershire, in the sharnford area?
- Hi Arthur, the Pendant was indeed found in Sharnford.
Keith It was actually found in Sapcote not Sharnford - Hi Keith, yes you are of course correct, it was found in the Sapcote Parish but closer to Sharnford.
Paul Fantastic!! Mind you, I would say that, it was me that found it! Hope you all enjoy it! - Hi Paul, it is a truely amazing find!
Nora Was it found in an anglo saxon cemetery? The info doesnt say.- Hi Nora, We can't say much about the findspot as no investigation is carried out at Treasure findspots unless it’s a Hoard deposit. Whilst it is possible that the find is from a cemetery, a pendant would have been located over a body and the finder did not see any bones in the hole. Given that its loop was damaged it is more likely that the object was lost whilst being worn. I'm sure the owner would have looked for it as it was a high status piece!
Page Last Updated: 13 May 2013
