A large hoard of jewellery discovered in the Russian city of Veliky Novgorod is providing new insights into long-distance trade and cultural exchange in medieval Europe.
Veliky Novgorod is one of the oldest cities in Russia, mentioned in the Sofia First Chronicle and the Novgorod First Chronicle from the 9th century AD.
The hoard, known as the Vozdvizhensky Treasure, dates to the late 10th century AD and consists of 39 intricately crafted silver beads alongside an ornate necklace.
According to a new study by researchers from the Institute of Archaeology of the Russian Academy of Sciences, the hoard underscores the extensive international networks that shaped this key trading hub.
The beads show a wide range of forms, including smooth, ribbed, granular, hemispherical, filigree, openwork, lobed and spiral designs. Researchers identified similar items in the Gnezdovo treasure and at Scandinavian sites such as Gotland and Värby.
By analysing stylistic and structural features, the team traced the origins of the beads across Europe. Granulated and openwork pieces likely came from Moravia, hemispherical beads from West Slavic regions, spiral forms from Scandinavia and lobed examples from Volyn.
“This diversity reflects an international style and demonstrates the status, wealth, and cultural identity of the ancient elite,” the study’s authors explained.
Evidence of use and value
Close examination revealed varying degrees of wear among the beads. Granular and spiral pieces showed significant signs of use, while hemispherical beads were better preserved. This suggests the hoard may have combined older, well-worn jewellery with newer items.
The discovery of paired beads indicates they may have been worn or traded in sets. Importantly, even heavily worn pieces retained their value, pointing to silver jewellery as both an adornment and a store of wealth.
Advanced scientific analysis
To investigate the composition and manufacture of the beads, scientists employed a range of modern techniques, including optical and scanning electron microscopy, energy-dispersive X-ray analysis, and X-ray and neutron tomography.
The results showed that all items were made from high-purity silver, often fashioned from solid metal. Some beads contained internal defects such as microcracks and delamination, offering insight into the technical limitations of early medieval metalworking.
“The uniformity of the sizes of granules, wire, and foil suggests a highly developed craft tradition and possible standardisation of tools and methods used by different artisans. This confirms the existence of established production networks and a high level of craftsmanship,” said the study authors.
A window into the Viking Age economy
The Vozdvizhensky Treasure is a striking representation of life in the late 10th century, when Veliky Novgorod was an important connection between the Baltic, Byzantium and the Islamic world. Silver – which was often obtained from Islamic coinage – was extensively reused for jewellery production.
While coins in the hoard allowed the date to be established, the jewellery itself reveals deeper insight into trade patterns, craftsmanship and social identity.
The reason for the treasure’s burial is unclear. It could have been hidden in an era of political instability, researchers say, or deposited as part of a ritual practice.
Sources : Russian Academy of Sciences
