Ancient gold ring unearthed at grave carries 2,000-year-old secret message

The rings were found at the Don Yai Thong archaeological site in the Phetchaburi Province in late June, The Associated Press reported.

Thailand's Fine Arts Department said the rings were buried alongside human bones.

Located in western Thailand, Don Yai Thong is about 80 miles southwest of Bangkok and was only recently identified as an archaeological site.

Experts believe the script reads "pusarakhitasa," meaning "the one protected by Pushya."

Pushya is a lunar constellation in ancient Indian astronomy long associated with good fortune and protection, suggesting the inscription may have been intended as a blessing.

The other gold ring is similarly well-preserved, but does not have any pattern.

Experts believe the rings' owner may have belonged to the Vaishya class, which was traditionally associated with merchants and traders in ancient India's caste system.

The grave goods suggest the deceased were members of society's upper class.

The discovery follows other archaeological excavations that have uncovered ancient gold treasures across the world.

The Associated Press contributed reporting.