Torc - Terminology and Definition

Terminology and Definition

The word comes from Latin torquis (or torques), from torqueo, "to twist", because of the twisted shape of the collar. The ends of ancient torcs typically bore sculpted ornaments, frequently globes, cubes, or animal heads, and, less commonly, human figures. The body of the necklace was usually but not always wrapped. Although they were most often neck rings, there were also bracelets with this shape. Basic torcs were made from intertwined metal rods, or "ropes" of twisted wire, usually gold or bronze, less often silver, iron or other metals, but elaborate examples, sometimes hollow, used a variety of techniques.