Anglo Saxon Gems and Jewellery

Anglo Saxon Gems and Jewellery

Author: Frank Docherty October 6, 2023 Duration: 6:23

Archaeological sites such as Sutton Hoo have given us an insight to the historical information of the Anglo-Saxon period. Sutton Hoo is the site of two 6th and 7th century cemeteries near Woodbridge, Suffolk. It first began to be excavated in 1939, and was found to contain many Anglo-Saxon wonders, including an undisturbed ship burial. This site, among others, has given us an interesting insight into the life of Anglo-Saxon people, their customs, and of course their jewellery.

Anglo Saxon jewellery had motifs and themes so strong and unique that jewellery is still crafted in the same styles today. As we already know, the custom of wearing jewellery originates far back in history. The ancient Egyptians and Romans, both adorned themselves in rich bejewelled ornamentation, and the Anglo Saxons were no different. Comprising of many Germanic tribes, the Anglo Saxons inhabited Britain from the 5th century. Their customs, designs, and jewellery took inspiration both from their Roman predecessors and from Germanic art.


Frank Docherty hosts The Wanderer, a podcast that moves through the deep forests and mead halls of early medieval England. This isn't a dry recitation of dates, but an exploration of how people thought, believed, and told stories. You’ll hear discussions on the foundational myths and local spirits that populated the Anglo-Saxon world, understanding how folklore was woven into daily life. The conversation naturally extends to the complex religious landscape, from the old gods to the coming of Christianity, and how these forces collided and merged. History provides the anchor, examining the society and events that formed the backdrop for everything else. Listening to this podcast feels like uncovering layers of a rich tapestry, where a heroic poem, a pagan ritual, and a historical king might all be connected. Each episode aims to make the distant past feel tangible and relevant, exploring the wisdom and the weirdness of a foundational era. The goal is to provide a thoughtful, nuanced perspective that goes beyond the stereotypes, all while appreciating the haunting beauty of the language and ideas left behind. It’s for anyone curious about the roots of stories and the echoes of a world that still subtly shapes our own.
Author: Language: English Episodes: 50

The Wanderer Anglo Saxon History, mythology, Folklore and religion
Podcast Episodes
The Anglo Saxon Peasant Soldier [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 8:32
The Peasant Soldier: More Than Just a FarmerThe average Anglo-Saxon peasant soldier was not a full time warrior but a member of the Fyrd—a militia of free men called upon in times of war. This system allowed the king or…
Anglo Saxon resistance against Norman rule [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 9:40
Following the Norman Conquest of England in 1066, the Anglo-Saxon populace mounted several resistance efforts against William the Conqueror's rule. These uprisings were driven by widespread resentment towards the oppress…
Murder in Anglo Saxon England [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 21:02
In Anglo-Saxon England, murder was regarded as a serious crime, and there were various legal practices and customs in place for dealing with it. These practices evolved over the course of the Anglo-Saxon period (roughly…
Yule and Christmas [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 8:10
Yule is a pagan celebration rooted in Northern European traditions, marking the winter solstice (around December 21–22). It celebrates the return of the sun and the renewal of life. Common customs include burning a Yule…
Anglo Saxon Leatherwork [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 16:32
Introduction to Anglo-Saxon Leather working Leather working was an essential craft in Anglo-Saxon England (circa 5th to 11th centuries) and played a crucial role in everyday life. The Anglo-Saxons were skilled artisans w…
The Spear [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 9:18
The spear has been a crucial weapon in English warfare, both for its versatility and its effectiveness in various military contexts. Its use spans from the early medieval period through the Renaissance, reflecting the ev…
The English Billhook [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 8:22
The billhook, often referred to simply as a "bill," is a traditional weapon that originated in medieval Europe, primarily used by infantry soldiers. It evolved from an agricultural tool used for pruning and cutting branc…
Anglo Saxon Broken Back Seax [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 11:07
The "Broken Back Seax" is a type of knife or dagger that was characteristic of the Anglo-Saxons, the Germanic inhabitants of England from the 5th century AD until the Norman Conquest in 1066. The name "seax" itself refer…