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 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.