Dunstable
Medieval
Dunstable > Archaeology > Medieval
Swan Jewel
The Swan Jewel was found in 1965 during excavations by Manshead Archaeological Society in Friary Field. Friary Field was the site of a poor Dominican Priory in existence between 1259 and 1538.
The swan jewel is made of solid gold covered in white enamel feathers. It is approximately 1 inch long and 1.5 inches high. Around the neck of the swan is a gold coronet with six fleur-de-lys to which is attached a chain ending on a ring. On the back of the jewel there is a pin and a catch.
The jewel is the only surviving example of a livery badge and was probably the property of a rich and influential individual.
Sources:
- The Dunstable Swan Jewel edited by Vivienne Evans (1982, Dunstable Museum Trust)
-
Dunstable in detail by Nigel C. Benson (1986, The Book Castle)
- British Museum Compass Web Site - The Swan Jewel
