Sanngjörns

Sanngjörns, also referred to as King's earrings due to their resemblance to two large bells dangling from the king's earlobe, are a type of conspicuous decorative jewelry originating in Scandinavia. Characteristic of Viking Age Scandinavia, sanngjörns were worn primarily by high-ranking officials and warriors. The earring's design typically featured a forked shape, often reaching lengths of over 10 centimeters. This ornate piece of jewelry was divided into two parts, each consisting of a short length of chain which were joined at the center.

Little is known about the development and cultural significance of sanngjörns. Although the earring style remains tied to the Viking epoch, its prevalence during this period may not indicate a widespread practice throughout all areas of Scandinavia. The limited time period for which sanngjörns are known to have existed, combined with the infrequent mentions of them in written records, leaves much of the sanngjörns' history and impact unexplored. Available finds, comprised mainly of archaeological discoveries and limited written tellings, however suggest that sanngjörns held a unique cultural acknowledgment amongst particular upper-class groups.

One archaeological find that has garnered more attention for its illustration of Viking-connected sanngjörns is a grave discovery in a Swedish century-mound grave that yielded wearing items typical for elite ranks during the Viking Age. Preservation within this environment has lent strength to the supposition that the extravagance tied to sanngjörns could have reflected understanding of social hierarchy within Viking culture.