Etruscan Wedding Bands

The Etruscans lived in Etruria (western Tuscany, Italy) and were a non Italic people whose culture was based largely on the Greek culture. The Etruscans had a profound influence on the Romans from the 7th century BC to the 5th century BC. They were eventually overcome by the Gauls and again in the 3rd and 4th centuries BC, when they were overcome by the Romans.  The Etruscans, who were a established nation in central Italy when Rome was a young state and became Rome's first enemies.

During the Early Etruscan Period (7th century BC to the 5th century BC), they developed their own unique methods of workmanship and characteristic styles, producing many pieces featuring intricate detail and a wide variety of styles.  During this time the Etruscans developed the art of  granulation, which uses finely grained "shot" gold to create delicate patterns. This process is now being used again today.  Granulation is a shot ball technique, where tiny granules or "grains" are fusion-welded to the metal's surface to create a pattern or design. 
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