The recently uncovered gold ring, once worn by Queen Karin Månsdotter of Sweden, was found during archaeological studies at Turku Cathedral, according to a statement by the Vapriiki museum center conducting the research. This discovery is historically significant as no other personal items conclusively belonging to Karin Månsdotter have survived to the present day. Karin, who rose from peasant origins to become the spouse of Swedish King Erik XIV, is notably the only royal of Sweden to be buried in Finland.

The last time Karin's tomb at Turku Cathedral was opened was in 1867, when archaeologists found small silk scraps near the mummified remains, believed at the time to be a sign of embalming. However, current investigations have revealed that these silk fragments are actually remnants of a rat's nest, indicating that rodents had gnawed on parts of Karin's burial garments. This raises interesting questions about the condition of the tomb and its preservation over the centuries.

As the research continues, the findings not only shed light on Karin Månsdotter's life and historical importance but also contribute to our understanding of burial practices and conditions in the historical context of the late 16th century in Finland and Sweden. The investigation done by Vapriiki adds a new chapter to the narratives surrounding royal burials and highlights the importance of cultural heritage preservation in these sites.