Parthian Earrings: Case Study Gold Earrings from the Jubon Site in Gilan (Iran)

Jewelry has been prevalent in human societies since ancient times. By studying these artifacts and analyzing the decorative styles and techniques employed in their creation, researchers can gain insights into the identities of the people who produced them. Archaeological excavations in Jubon cemetery in Gilan province have uncovered numerous Gurkani graves dating from the first millennium BC to the Sassanid period. Some of these graves were found gold earrings, now kept in the National Museum of Iran. This research aims to classify earrings found in the Juban cemetery and compare them with those from the North Caucasus to identify their manufacturing techniques and production workshops. The study employs a descriptive-analytical method with a comparative approach. The findings indicate that the earrings from the Jubon cemetery can be classified into two typological categories: The first type is gold earrings without precious stones and the second is gold earrings adorned with garnet decorations. The identified manufacturing techniques include relief, casting, hammering, inlaying, and wiring, which were prevalent among Greek and Scythian artisans during the Parthian period. The methods used in making Jubon earrings show similarities to earrings from the North Caucasus, but significant differences in the decoration of gold indicate local production.