From Jarlshof, Shetland
A spindle whorl was hung at the end of a strand or ball of wool, to act as a flywheel as it was spun into yarn using a spindle. This steatite example was found at Jarlshof in Shetland. It was used sometime between 850 and 1000.
Spindle whorl of steatite, from Jarlshof, Shetland, 850 - 1000 AD
Spindle whorls are often the only evidence preserved of spinning. Steatite was a popular material for Scandinavians, who were used to its properties from Norway, and exploited the outcrops in Shetland when they settled there.
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