History has taught use that the Viking period was around 700-1500. The
Vikings came from the Nordic countries and invaded Europe and brought with
them their culture and traditions. They have left a mark on European
culture and this can be evidenced in Viking jewellery. Traditionally
Vikings have been though of as a wandering nation of plunderers, who invaded
and conquered much of Europe and Russia. However, this is a very
stereotypical image of this race. In order to obtain a more in-depth
understanding of Vikings and their culture it is possible to delve into
their daily lives and put the jigsaw pieces together.

Unfortunately the Vikings didn't leave us with any written material with
which to piece together their lives; instead, archaeological remains must
work out the puzzle. The Vikings were skilled shipbuilders,
but often also
bought jewellery, silver, pottery and glass. We known from archaeological
remains that Viking men and women liked to wear jewellery. Usually the
women would wear a combination of necklaces, rings and brooches.

Viking wedding rings were normally crafted from silver and there is a great demand
today for replica items. Most rings were crafted by twisting silver, and
then braiding it and finally hammering it down. Many items of Viking
jewellery have been found in Denmark and Sweden. One such ring, found in
Denmark weighed 17 grams and demonstrates that jewellery was worn as a sign
of wealth. Buying a good replica today shouldn't cost the earth! There is
a good range to choose from, especially since more modern Viking rings have
been somewhat influenced by Celtic designs.