A GOLD lock-ring from the Bronze Age unearthed in Cumbria has been declared as treasure by a coroner.

The artefact, which is in two pieces, was discovered by a metal detectorist in Urswick, on December 18, 2021.

It was sent to the British Museum to be assessed and has been dated from between 1100 and 800 BC.

Lock-rings were used to gather the hair and denoted wealth and high status within late Bronze Age Society.

It is the sixth gold lock-ring to be found in Cumbria. Similar items have been found in hoards across England, Ireland and France.

As the lock-ring contains a minimum of 10 per cent precious metal and is over 300 years old, it meets the criteria for treasure.

Margaret Taylor, assistant coroner for Cumbria, determined that the item was treasure at a hearing held at Cockermouth Coroners’ Court on Thursday.

The Dock Museum in Barrow has expressed an interest in acquiring the item.

Ms Taylor said: “I’m happy to say this is indeed treasure. Hopefully, The Dock Museum will obtain it and it will be available for viewing in time to come.”

By law, finders of potential treasure must notify their local coroner, who will determine if the item is treasure at an inquest.

All treasure found in the UK belongs to the Crown and The Treasure Valuation Committee recommends a value for the find.

It is then offered for sale to a museum, and a reward shared between the finder and the landowner.