Often referred as the “Golden Regalia,” this massive gold sash attests to the early influence of Hindu culture in early Filipino culture. It is worn across the chest in the manner of the Hindu upavita or sacred thread. Weighing close to four kilos of gold, this piece was likely worn by an important datu or chief during key rituals. It is made of tightly braided gold wires and gold beads woven to assemble a four-cornered halter with a slit was provided on one end – perhaps to hold a ceremonial dagger.

This is a stud with an eight-petalled floral motif. Such rosettes on finger rings, dangling earrings, and stud ornaments might have been inspired by the vegetation flourishing on the islands at the time. Casting, granulation, and/or repousse techniques are evident in this gold ornament.

This belt fragment was designed with tubular beads forming geometric patterns such as Xs, diamonds, and triple dashes within a loop-in-loop mesh. It would have been part of an ensemble of personal adornments of a nobleman from 10th-13th-century Philippines. This belt band was originally connected to one of the buckles in this collection and is part of the so-called “Surigao Treasure” recovered in Surigao del Sur province in Mindanao.

Most belts that were irregularly excavated were cut and divided up among looters. Only a few complete belts survive.

This buckle is attached to a fragment of a belt. Gold granules form recurring triangular patterns on the buckle. It has three circular hoops at the end denoting a hook and eye locking mechanism.

Dated 10th to 13th century, this was a part of the cache called the “Surigao Treasure” accidentally found by a mine worker in Surigao City, Mindanao in 1981.

Deceased wealthy individuals were buried with jewelry and textiles with gold appliques. Their faces were fitted with a full-face mask, or cut-out covers for the eyes, nose, and mouth, which were made onsite by goldsmiths or panday-ginto. This funerary diadem adorned the forehead.

The gold accessories affirmed the status of the deceased during their lifetime and ensured a safe journey and cordial welcome to the afterlife.