The skeleton called the “Ring Lady” unearthed in Herculaneum near Pompeii. 79 A.D. Aprox 45 years old woman was found buried in ash with her gold jewellery: rings and braclets. This photo was made few hours after discovery. 2000 years old jewellery was in perfect condition.
The eruption of Mount Vesuvius in 79 AD continues to “erupt” from the ashes buried beneath the ancient cities of Pompeii and Herculaneum, uncovering skeletons, bones, stories, and… rings. Yes, rings. Like those found on the fingers of a woman from ancient Herculaneum in 1982, which earned her the nickname “the lady of the rings.”
Along with about 200 others, she was found exploded from within, having tried to escape the devastating eruption of Vesuvius by fleeing to the sea, but to no avail. Her escape, however, was orderly and not hurried, considering several factors that are important to note.
Firstly, none of the deceased died from being trampled or crushed. This also applied to individuals with lower limb issues who joined others in what was a “pilgrimage of hope.” In extreme conditions, they would never have been able to keep pace with able-bodied individuals.
The second clue comes from the “lady of the rings” herself. Discovered in 1982 within the Herculaneum excavations at the XI archway, she had two gold rings with precious stones on her fingers and two bracelets on her upper left arm. Additionally, she had a purse full of coins and a pair of earrings. It is hard to believe that the 46-year-old woman, in a moment of extreme danger to her life, would have thought about taking these items, which were valuable but certainly not essential.
What is certain, however, is that the woman must have been quite wealthy, given the expensive items she carried. This hypothesis is confirmed by the analysis of her bones: their good density and weight indicate that she was well-nourished.
This was not enough to save her life, though. She died like the others on the shores of the Gulf of Naples, engulfed by a scorching cloud that left no escape on the night between August 24 and 25 (or more likely October 79 AD).
