2,000-year-old gold rings with ancient Indian script unearthed at Thailand archaeological site

Archaeologists in Thailand have unearthed two gold rings believed to be around 2,000 years old during an excavation at the Don Yai Thong archaeological site in Phetchaburi province. The rare discovery, made alongside human skeletal remains, is offering fresh insights into ancient trade, culture and links between Thailand and the Indian subcontinent.

According to Thailand's Fine Arts Department, one of the rings bears an inscription in the ancient Brahmi script, one of the earliest writing systems of India. Experts have tentatively deciphered the inscription as "Pusarakhitasa," meaning "the one protected by Pushya," a reference to one of the most auspicious constellations in Indian astronomy and astrology.

The second ring is a plain gold band without any engraving. Based on the inscription and the nature of the burial, archaeologists believe the individual may have been a merchant associated with the ancient Indian Vaishya community, reflecting the strong commercial and cultural ties that existed between India and Southeast Asia nearly two millennia ago.

The Don Yai Thong site, located about 130 kilometres southwest of Bangkok, came to light earlier this year after local residents discovered fragments of ancient bronze drums in a rice field. Subsequent excavations have revealed that the site dates back to Thailand's late prehistoric Iron Age, approximately 1,500 to 2,500 years ago.

Since excavations began in February, researchers have uncovered eight human skeletons, gold and bronze ornaments, pottery and several other artefacts. Experts believe the findings indicate ceremonial burials of wealthy or high-status individuals, shedding light on the social and economic life of the period.

The excavation is expected to conclude within the next month, after which Thailand's Fine Arts Department plans to conserve and display the discoveries for the public. Archaeologists say the findings could significantly enhance understanding of ancient regional trade networks and cultural exchanges across Asia.