Veraguas Gold Bird Pendant

Panama Ca. 600 to 800 AD.   The raptorial bird cast with bulging eyes, wings and tail fan spread.  A loop hole for suspension behind.  Size  7/8 inches L; 2.1cm.; 20.2k; weight  2.53 g.XRF Composition AnalysisGold (Au): 86.49%Silver (Ag): 3.32%Copper (Cu): 9.76%Iron (Fe): 0.43%This composition perfectly aligns with Pre-Columbian metallurgical ranges, where gold typically dominated (70-95%), with moderate amounts of copper (5-20%) and silver (2-20%), and minimal iron content (less than 1%). Crafted using traditional Pre-Columbian metalworking techniques, likely through lost-wax casting or sheet forming. The analysis was performed using an ElvaX spectrometer, providing precise measurements of its elemental composition. The lack of plating detection and the specific gold content around 22K aligns with known Pre-Columbian metallurgical practices. This type of ornamental piece would have held both decorative and symbolic significance in Pre-Columbian societies. Gold was considered a symbol