CHAPTER 111. 



ORNAMENTS OF METAL. 



Notwithstanding that it was often used for implements, copper seems to 

 have been most highly valued by the mound-builders for purposes of ornament. 

 The supposition is based upon the fact that ornaments of this metal are compar- 

 atively abundant. They are found of many varieties, comprising bracelets, 

 pendants, beads, gorgets, etc., some of which display no inconsiderable degree 

 of skill. 



Fio. 88. 



The bracelets arc usually found encircling the arms of the skeletons, in the 

 sepulchral mounds, but are not infrequent upon the altars. They consist of a 

 simple rod of copper, hammered out with more or less skill, and so bent that the 

 ends approach, or lap over, each other. Those which have been deposited under 

 unfavorable circumstances are generally much corroded and appear ragged and 

 rude. But some are found which are extremely well wrought. Such was the 

 case with those obtained from a mound, within an enclosure, three miles above 

 Chillicothe, (see page 156,) three of which of full size are shown in the 

 engraving. These are smoothly and uniformly hanmiered, and seem to have 

 been originally highl}^ polished. They are bent with perfect regularity ; and, 

 it is a singular fact, are of uniform size and weight. They measure, between 



