The formation and spread of the ring with an S-shaped terminal

Abstract

S-terminalled rings became in fashion in the Middle Avar Period (last quarter of the 7th century AD). The earliest variants, with their end rolled in multiple S-shapes, were worn as earrings. After the Late Avar Period, customs changed, and the rings became braid ornaments; parallel, their ending has also simplified into a simple S shape. The earliest occurrences are in the Balaton area (Keszthely, Kereki, Badacsonytomaj, etc.). This earring fashion was adopted first by Moravian Slavs residing in the valleys of the Morava and Thaya rivers and later by Western Slavs almost everywhere.