In this study, I examine the usage of saws during the Iron Age in Estonia in order to understand their existence, function, and technological development. To place these findings into a broader context, I compare the Iron Age material with 19th‑century saws and relevant ethnographic examples. Through this process, I identify several artefacts and contextual indicators that support my hypothesis: saws were indeed present and in use in Estonia during the Iron Age.
Saws in themselves have a much longer history. The earliest versions appeared in prehistoric times, when they were made from stone or other non‑metallic materials. The situation changed with the rise of metalworking. The introduction of copper and bronze allowed the creation of more durable and effective saws, something clearly illustrated by examples from ancient Egypt. Later advancements in iron and steel metallurgy further transformed the design, efficiency, and everyday use of saws.
By situating the Estonian findings within this broader technological evolution, I aim to show not only the types of saws that may have been used during the Iron Age, but also how they reflect long‑term continuity and change in woodworking traditions.

In this diploma thesis, I explore metalworking techniques related to metal inlay, with particular focus on inlaying steel. I approach the topic from both practical and historical perspectives as I want to understand not only how these techniques were carried out but also how they developed over time. Archival materials from historical collections help me trace their background and usage.
The analysis is based on a selection of archaeological finds: eight objects from the Archaeological Research Collection of Tallinn University, three from the University of Tartu’s Archaeological Collection, two from the Estonian National Museum, and one from the Tallinn City Museum. To support the practical side of the research, I also rely on scholarly literature, technical manuals, and instructional videos that demonstrate metal inlay methods.
Together, these sources allow me to form a clearer picture of the technological and craft traditions behind metal inlay and its role in historical metalworking.

I am currently working on my master’s thesis, which focuses on granulation and filigree jewellery in Estonia from the 8th to the 13th century. To date, I have identified 58 objects produced using these techniques, along with a small number of comparative examples from outside Estonia.

Most of the Estonian material is held in the Estonian History Museum and in the archive of the Tallinn Institute of Archaeology, where the majority of Estonia’s archaeological collections are preserved.

I examine both the technological aspects of filigree and granulation—how these techniques were executed—and the wider cultural and historical contexts in which they developed. Upon completion of the research, the results will be published on this website.