Researchers working at a newly identified archaeological site in western Thailand have unearthed two gold rings estimated to be around 2,000 years old. According to a statement from the Thai government’s Fine Arts Department, the artifacts were discovered last week alongside human skeletal remains during an ongoing excavation at the Don Yai Thong site in Phetchaburi province.
One of the rings, recovered on Thursday, features engravings identified by experts as characters from the ancient Indian Bhrami script. Initial assessments suggest the inscription reads “pusarakhitasa,” which translates to “the one protected by Pushya,” a reference to a prominent zodiac sign in Indian astronomy. The second ring, found with the same set of remains, is a plain gold band without any specific patterns. Experts from the department believe these items belonged to a merchant potentially associated with the Vaishyas, an ancient Indian caste.
The Don Yai Thong site, located approximately 130 kilometers (80 miles) southwest of Bangkok, was first identified earlier this year after local residents discovered remnants of ancient bronze drums in a rice field. The area has been dated to Thailand’s late prehistoric era, specifically the Iron Age, spanning from roughly 1,500 to 2,500 years ago. Since the project began in February, archaeologists have recovered eight human skeletons, as well as various items including pottery and jewelry made of gold and bronze, all of which point to a ceremonial burial ground for members of the upper class or wealthy individuals.
The Fine Arts Department expects the excavation to conclude within the next month. Following the completion of the dig, officials intend to display the findings publicly.
