Smithsonian Magazine · People & society

5,000-Year-Old Necklace of 42 Animal Teeth Unearthed in Poland

Archaeologists in Poland discovered a 5,000-year-old burial mound containing a man's skeleton, other artifacts, and a unique necklace made of 42 drilled animal teeth.

The grave, found near Żórawina, dates to the Middle Neolithic period and was unearthed by researchers from the University of Wrocław and Wrocław Medical University. The necklace, strung on a now-decayed cord, is a significant find, with the closest comparison being a much later Bronze Age necklace of only four teeth.

The teeth likely came from large mammals such as wolves, deer, or young bears, and possibly humans. Researchers suggest the necklace might have represented hunting trophies or a gift, indicating the deceased was an important figure, possibly a clan leader.

Alongside the necklace, the burial mound contained a male skeleton, fragments of two other skulls, amber beads, a flint knife, and a stone ax. The style of the ax helped date the grave to approximately 2900 B.C.E.

Further analysis, including radiocarbon dating and genetic studies of the skulls and teeth, will aim to determine the exact age, genders, species, and diets of the individuals. Researchers also hope to ascertain if the additional skulls were a result of decapitation.

The discovery may be linked to the Corded Ware culture, known for its distinctive pottery. Separately, nearby excavations also revealed a high-status burial site potentially belonging to the same culture, which was widespread in Europe during the third millennium B.C.E.

AI-samenvatting op basis van de bron.