Oggetti preziosi spezzati nel ‘complesso monumentale’ di Tarquinia

Three broken gems - an Egyptian blue scarab, a serpentine scaraboid, and a carnelian scarab - are found in the 'monumental complex' of Tarquinia. This document provides a detailed description, including an analysis of their morphological features and decorations, and discusses similarities and differences with other scarabs found in Etruria and in different regions of the Mediterranean. Additionally, it explores whether the objects were discarded for casual reasons or as an intentional gesture by investigating the preservation state of the three gems, drawing insights into the use and meaning of actions within the sacred area as a container for ritual actions, including objects broken on purpose.