An untrained archaeologist unearths a millennium-old ring carrying significant ramifications
In an exciting turn of events, a 1000-year-old Pictish ring has been unearthed during archaeological excavations in Scotland. The discovery was made by 68-year-old retired volunteer, John Ralph, who had been volunteering for archaeological digs in Burghead.
John Ralph's find offers valuable insights into the history of the Pictish kingdom, a significant seat of power during the Dark Age of Scotland between 500 and 1000 CE. The Picts, known as Picti by the Romans, from the Latin for "Painted Ones," held back invasion attempts not just by the Romans, but also the Angles.
Michael Natale, News Editor for the Hearst Enthusiast Group, has been following the story closely. With over fifteen years of writing and researching under his belt, Natale has a wealth of experience in producing written and audio-visual content that spans historical periods from the dawn of early man to the Golden Age of Hollywood.
Natale's work has taken him to notable historical sites and archaeological digs, including America's earliest colonies and the former homes of Edgar Allan Poe. His stories for the Enthusiast Group have involved coordinating with organisations like the National Parks Service and the Secret Service.
The discovered ring is currently at the National Museum of Scotland for analysis, where experts hope it will provide a greater understanding of a kingdom who "disappeared from history by the end of the first millennium."
Despite extensive research, the name of the archaeologist leading the University of Aberdeen's investigation into the 1000-year-old ring remains unclear. For more information about Michael Natale and his work, his full bio can be read online.
