Examination of jewelry products at the Aphrodisias Museum and new desi̇gns

This thesis presents a comprehensive examination of the jewelry artifacts unearthed in the ancient city of Aphrodisias and currently housed in the Aphrodisias Museum. Within the framework of traditional crafts, the study investigates the artistic, symbolic, and technical dimensions of these objects to contribute to academic literature and make this cultural heritage accessible to wider audiences. Aphrodisias, historically renowned for its sculpture workshops and artistic production, was a prominent cultural center in antiquity. However, its jewelry collection has remained relatively underexplored in scholarly studies. The primary aim of this thesis is to systematically document, classify, and interpret the jewelry and ornamental stones in the museum collection. All 121 artifacts were examined on-site. These include 52 rings, 7 earrings, 32 natural stones, 13 pendants, 3 garment clasps, 1 hair/garment pin, and 11 bracelets. Each piece was photographed in high resolution, and its dimensions, weight, materials, techniques, and decorative elements were recorded. Materials such as bronze and silver were commonly used, along with techniques like engraving, openwork (ajour), stamping, and relief. The findings suggest that jewelry in Aphrodisias fulfilled not only decorative purposes but also religious, social, and symbolic functions. The stylistic richness and craftsmanship of the artifacts reflect the sophistication of ancient artisans and the cultural complexity of the region. A significant outcome of this research is the creation of a digital platform: www.afrodisiastakilari.com.tr. The researcher has secured a one-year domain license for this website, where all documented artifacts, photographs, and technical data are made publicly accessible. Upon completion of the thesis, ownership and management of the website will be transferred to the Aphrodisias Museum. It will serve as an openaccess digital archive, supporting future research, educational use, and public engagement with the region's archaeological heritage. In conclusion, this thesis contributes to the fields of traditional crafts, art history, archaeology, and museology, while simultaneously promoting digital heritage preservation. By bridging academic research with digital accessibility and institutional collaboration, the project serves as a model for sustainable cultural heritage documentation.