According to Daily Mail, Scientists recently conducted a new analysis of the “Villena treasure,” a treasure trove of 59 gilded objects found in 1963 in Spain. This treasure is about 3.000 years old.
Among them, two objects, including a hat and a bracelet, are composed of meteoric iron (iron and nickel) - found in meteorites.
According to the research team's estimates, this extraterrestrial material came from a meteorite that crashed into Earth a million years ago.
The researchers further explained that meteoric iron is composed mainly of silicate - a salt made of silicon and oxygen. In addition, they also contain other minor and trace chemical elements, with cobalt being one of the most important.
“Villena's Treasure” was discovered on the Iberian Peninsula, Spain, revealing a glimpse into the process of humans switching from stone to bronze. However, this treasure may belong to an entire community, not just one royal family.
About 90% of the collection is made of 23,5 carat gold, including 11 bowls, 3 bottles and 28 bracelets.
These artifacts were discovered by archaeologist José Maria Soler in December 12, when he and his team were excavating a dry river bed called “Rambla del Panadero”. They have since been stored at the city's archaeological museum.
Using fallen meteorites as “fashion accessories” was a common practice thousands of years ago. A similar artifact was found in Tutankhamun's tomb.
Specifically, in 2016, researchers at the Egyptian Museum in Cairo, Milan Polytechnic University and Pisa (Italy) announced an intricately decorated dagger encased in a golden sheath, with a blade made of from meteoric iron.
The dagger is considered one of the most outstanding items taken from the tomb of pharaoh Tutankhamun. The gold handle is intricately embossed with crystals while the case is decorated with feather patterns and jackal heads.
Phuong Anh (Source: Daily Mail)