Archaeologists' latest discovery has yielded a fascinating trove of treasure that's more than just glitzy loot.
The treasure was discovered in Peru, along with a 2,700-year-old tomb of what is believed to be two high-ranking "serpent jaguar priests." The discovery is significant because it suggests that the Pre-Inca Formative Period Pacopampa society may have had elite members.
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The discovery of numerous elaborate goods in the tomb further indicates the priests' high status, the researchers said. Archaeologists unearthed a necklace made from gold beads and a black ceramic bottle in the shape of a serpent with a jaguar head — the design that gave the priests their nickname. Different colored pigments were also placed in front of one of the skeleton's heads.
Researchers are still working to discern the meanings of the colors and the minerals, as well as the age and gender of the two priests.