Urartu was an Iron Age kingdom situated between Asia Minor, Mesopotamia, and the Caucasus mountains, in what was later to be known as the Armenian Highlands. The kingdom was centred around Lake Van and corresponds to the biblical Kingdom of Ararat. Urartu refers predominantly to the region, whilst the term “kingdom of Urartu” is used for the Iron Age state that developed in that region. Urartu jewellery, which was worn by both men and women, is predominantly recovered in funeral sites. Beautiful elaborate jewellery, such as rings, bracelets and earrings, comprising gold and silver embroidery such as filigree and granulation, are characteristic of the Urartu goldsmith and silversmith production.
To discover more about jewellery in the Ancient World, please visit our relevant post: Jewellery in Antiquity.
