Solved? The Roman Dodecahedron

[@robertthurman9866]

This also explains why so many were found at military buildings. Making various ropes, cords strings for equipment. Well done.

[@TheBaldr]

There no wear and tear on the items, they were never used to manufacture anything. Even making fiber cords would have shown wear on them.

[@rh_BOSS]

Just like all other theories, this one fails to show any clear functional purpose behind dodecahedral shape. A set of plates would serve just fine for the purpose shown, while being much easier to manufacture. Hexagonal plates with six stubs would be more straightforward to model than pentagonal. Not to mention, that if it was used for making rope, there would be dozens to hundreds of those found in every settlement.

[@wbwilhite]

@@rh_BOSS Roman weapons, armor, helmets and shields are not that common. It makes sense that the tools to make these would be far less common. As for wear, I've used metal tools over 40 years in the merchant marine, and they last a very long time. Believe me. We abused the heck out of them. Steel on steel. And many tools were still perfectly good after many decades of use and abuse.

[@JaneNewAuthor]

​@@TheBaldrmaybe they were new ones. Old ones would have worn out and been thrown away or destroyed. Archaeology only uncovers a very small proportion of what was actually used.

[@Joe-lb8qn]

@@JaneNewAuthorand much of what discovers is indeed old broken stuff that was thrown out. Not sure how many broken ones have been found but you'd expect to see many more broken than whole maybe 10x or 100x AFAIK this is not the case. FWIW if it was used for making jewelry that doesn't fit with none found in Italy and many found in military camps.

[@JohnSkeel]

When you started pulling through smaller and smaller holes I was open mouthed in an OMG moment. I think you nailed it. I always thought it was for knitting wool into something but could never figure out what or how. Well done.

[@user-kf6lu4dn2r]

This is the most plausible and sane theory I've ever seen on these.

[@ehcastro3156]

The question is, have archeologists found some semblance of metalwork shown? And why are these dodecahedrons not found in Italy, don't they have metalworks and jewelcrafting?

[@klondike69none85]

Maybe you should expand your knowledge base beyond KZbin then

[@spudspuddy]

already proven they were lanterns, candle wax still inside most of them, plenty of videos about it

[@TheBaldr]

Actually, it is not plausible at all. If they were used this way, there would be considered today signs of wear and tear from use. Everyone of these objects have shown no signs of wear and tear.

[@commanderjameson2708]

@@TheBaldr I don't think a softer metal can damage a harder one.

[@tootsiequilt]

This really makes so much more sense to me, than anything else I've heard.

[@andreamuller9009]

Now we just have to find the jewelry from this time that proves that the Romans and Celts already knew this Viking technique. Weren't they also made of metal? So where are they?

[@thelastdwemer]

@@andreamuller9009 Several are displayed in the video.

[@renatobucci4917]

Very clever and most convincing. Of all suggested solutions so far this is the most likely I have seen, supportted by the fact that one was found at a jeweler's workshop in former Gaul. Congratulations, Renato Bucci, Italy

[@MickeyMousePark]

80% have been found at military sites...

[@wbwilhite]

@@MickeyMousePark Roman military repaired their own gear and had workshops. Outfitters followed them (aka camp followers) to make money for shoes and armor, plus whatever else they could provide.

[@carolinemcauliffe-gg4tf]

@@MickeyMouseParkeven now in the military lots of men knit, an engaging hobby that takes up little space and a useful end product. One of the best knitters I know learnt it in the Gurkhas

[@charlotteillustration5778]

Utterly convincing in every detail, even down to the pushing of the chain through smaller and smaller holes. I have done a workshop in making a Viking bracelet that is identical, except that we had to use tape at the top of the rod to start it off, and didn’t have every useful part in one tool. Fascinating, well done! It would never have occurred to me that the dodecahedron could be used in this way, but you made that vital imaginative leap.

[@tedolphbundler724]

Romans were clever, even if they stole the idea from someone else.

[@WolfHeathen]

Not at all convincing considering there are easier ways of making these kinds of products.

[@douglasmeyer9691]

I am rather impressed! This is the first time I am seeing something that makes sense. Congratulations!

[@davidfoss4836]

A whole knew respect for knitting. Now we have to watch a flurry of podcasters copy the revelation as if it is theirs.

[@brianrawleigh7242]

Absolutely brilliant. It makes sense that something found so frequently would have such a practical purpose. A child could be taught a viable skill with this device in a short time that would benefit both the family immediately, and the Empire overall.

[@Brendan-dv2cp]

Well said.

[@magenlin]

130 examples is a lot

[@zappababe8577]

I was skeptical at first, but having seen how well this actually works, I'm convinced that you've discovered its purpose. Well done! This is a massive achievement and you should feel very proud of yourself!

[@LowellMorgan]

This is a compelling explanation that thankfully doesn't insult the intelligence of the audience, but it doesn't explain the dodecahedrons without holes.

[@b.a.erlebacher1139]

​@@LowellMorgan You can knit on them, then use one with holes for stretching. It would take much longer to knit a chain than to stretch and narrow one, so several knitters could share a perhaps more expensive one with holes.

[@kevwhufc8640]

The biggest problem with this or any other idea that it was some form of tool is the lack of wear .

[@noracola5285]

@@kevwhufc8640 It's going to be far easier to explain how these could be used without causing wear than to come up with an equally plausible alternative.

[@bwcbiz]

@@kevwhufc8640 What is the relative hardness of Roman gold vs. Roman bronze? The level of wear would depend greatly on that. And if they were also used for textile chains as well as gold chains, the ones used with yarn wouldn't exhibit much wear at all.

[@TheBrewjo]

You're explanation solves one of the biggest problems of these Dodecahedrons. They're all the same but they're not precisely the same dimensions.

[@wbwilhite]

It's the same concept as a thimble or needle or any such instrument. After the thing is made, its usefulness endures.

[@Danielle-zq7kb]

They weren’t mass produced. The idea is what spread.

[@knives4cash]

How is this not making a big splash in the news???

[@DingoDoggie]

Because one of the elites couldn't solve it. Couldn't bear to see a commoner did.

[@ehcastro3156]

Some people are still skeptical I guess, and for good reason: did archeologists find some semblance of metalwork shown? And why are these dodecahedrons not found in Italy, don't they have metalworks and jewelcrafting?

[@name-np4gr]

@@DingoDoggie Man all you boomers are delusional. A group deluged with delusion! 👨🏿‍🦰👨🏿‍🦰😼

[@markgb]

@@ehcastro3156 Celtic not Roman

[@geirmyrvagnes8718]

@@DingoDoggie Ask any "elite". They would all be delighted that somebody had found the solution. Maybe this isn't it? Maybe it is? Maybe the solution is something similar to this? Who knows. You don't just put out a KZbin video and say "solved?" and that is the end of it.

[@Chris.Davies]

You are a card-carrying genius, madame! Well done, and congratulations on decoding what the scientists could not. Top work.

[@Brendan-dv2cp]

Well said, Mr. Davies. I concur, Sir.

[@trespire]

Now some academic will write up a paper, get it peer reviewed by "experts", publish it, and claim all the credit for discovering what she just did.

[@johnmac7209]

Wow - you take a piece of genius inspiration and turn it into an anti-science comment. Those 'scientists' with their fancy book-learning; what do they know anyway?

[@victoria9810]

I love your comment.

[@JesseP.Watson]

No big deal either way but archeology isn't science, though it pretends to be on occasion... and working out possible uses of a thing like this isn't something that could really be called science.

[@garlooroztox]

When I first started seeing these videos on the utility of dodecahedrons I was reminded of wooden tools used in videos of rope making in primitive cultures, so your explanation makes sense to me. I think you have it.

[@Leathurkatt]

This explanation makes way more sense than any other "theory" I've ever heard of. Good on you for figuring it out.

[@PhilFake-ew7wk]

Yes, this is the winner in my book.

[@JaneNewAuthor]

I used to have a French knitting machine when I was a kid. (I'm 70.) They always reminded me of those but I couldn't work out why. Congratulations!

[@gravyau]

We called them “knitting Nancy” that made woolen tubes

[@Deefburger]

I think you nailed it. This makes perfect sense and explains why they have found so many of these of various sizes. Well done!

[@anthonyrepetto3474]

You've done it! As a former chain-mail maker, with time at a spinning wheel, dabbling in crochet... as well as plenty of 12-sided dice in my youth, Latin class... I have thirsted for an explanation of those bronze relics! Thank you for finding the solution to a two-millennia-long mystery!

[@Lynnefromlyn]

Aha! French knitting! 😁

[@glennchartrand5411]

Not just gold chain , but rope in general. You could use strips of leather , bark, yarn or thread to make rope. Virtually no examples of rope from that era survive. But using your technique, I could make an extremely strong rope out of yarn...by starting with the smallest set of holes then running the cord through a larger set and weaving another layer around it, and just keep adding layers until the rope was the strength I desired.

[@dalemanolas5994]

Good for making horse riding tack as well. Whips, girth straps and so on could be woven out of tanned leather.

[@Windy_Eyes]

That is an interesting idea that makes her discovery even more plausible.

[@glennchartrand5411]

I looked into it deeper. None of the 130 that were found had any sign of wear on the knobs or the holes that you would expect to find. They did find wax residue in some of them but that could have just been to keep them from turning green from corrosion or wax was part of their usage While they are from the Roman Age , none have ever been found in Italy and there's no mention of them in Roman literature. So they were probably Celtic.

[@RegebroRepairs]

This isn't at all useful for making rope. It's made with a completely different technique.

[@glennchartrand5411]

@@RegebroRepairs The lack of wear marks and the fact that they were waxed (prevents corrosion) Wax could also imply candles or writing tablets (Notebooks were made out of wax so they could be erased and reused) They only appear in Celtic areas during Roman times, Roman literature never mentions them and they have no Roman letters or symbols on them. The only thing we know about them is they were handled with care and polished and it was important that the bottom side be raised off the table it was on.

[@GaiaCarney]

⭐️BRAVA! Amy Gaines, Danielle Ponce & Audrey Gaines = intelligent problem solvers & artists! Excellent job solving this age old ‘riddle’ ⭐️

[@christinecooper7820]

Congratulations, you have cracked this mystery I hope all the museums give you recognition for your efforts solving this conundrum that has lasted centuries. Would love to get one now and make my own bracelet . Hope you patent and manufacture the design and sell it to hobbyist around the world before someone else does . Good luck .

[@morenofranco9235]

Amy, this is absolutely OUTSTANDING. I have read so much conjecture about these dodecahedrons. All absurd. This has to be their real purpose.

[@randallreed9048]

When I was a young boy, my grandma taught me how to knit and crochet. One day she gave me a plastic cylinder about four inches long and 1.5 inches in diameter. The top of the tube had raised posts and a hole like one side of the Roman polyhedron. Starting with knitting wool, I would make a circular loop and keep repeating it for eternity and a long, thin, hollow knitted tube would extend below the tube. Once several feet of this woolen tube was made, one was suppose to sew the ends closed and then make circular rugs or doilies by creating a flat circle with the tube and then sewing the tube to itself to make a round textile of whatever size was needed. Looks like a similar principle.

[@b.a.erlebacher1139]

I remember those. We called it spool knitting. It was more fun if you used yarn with variegated colors

[@alisn.7998]

It was called French knitting in the north of England. You could make one with an empty cotton reel (made of wood until at least the 1970s) and 4 nails sticking out of the wood at the top. I still have a more recent one somewhere, in the shape of a toadstool, with bent metal as the hooks, but because they’re bent completely over (health and safety, no doubt) the wool slides off them all the time, so it’s pretty useless. You need nails with heads, or better still, knobs like the ones on the dodecahedrons.

[@scottorgan2255]

I used to do the same thing with a cotton reel and some nails plus finger stitching using the same technique with one or more fingers instead of a cotton reel and nails, my mother taught me how to do it because she was knitting all the time but I couldn't get the hang of knitting

[@binnylg]

I am absolutely convinced that you've nailed this, Amy - a combination frame and drawing plate tool for what we call Viking knit chains. There are plenty of tutorials on KZbin about how these chains are handcrafted and it's plain to see the utility of the dodecahedron in the process, as you've clearly demonstrated. Great work! You should be widely credited for your insight.

[@conniemcnulty4760]

A fancy spool cord maker! I love it, you are one clever woman. Congratulations. 😊

[@Dr.Yalex.]

I think you are a true genius! It makes so much sence. I think it was a multi knitting tool, used for knitting gloves and chains. You ARE brilliant!

[@LukeyHear]

Makes crap gloves as far as I’ve seen.

[@Dooguk]

@@LukeyHear Did the others use the wooden dowel?

[@LukeyHear]

@@Dooguk Not that I've seen yet.

[@Dr.Yalex.]

@@LukeyHear have you tried? or just looking to belittle?

[@LukeyHear]

@@Dr.Yalex. Just stating the nature of the evidence that exists. I look forward to any more evidence you may have. All the attempts to make a glove with these objects seem poor, they also dont explain many of the features or the high value invested in their manufacture.

[@denisebrooks4513]

Absolutely brilliant! I have watched any number of archeological dig videos where archeologist are bemoaning these curious artifacts. Are these a journeyman's skill test? A toy? A tool for divination? Yeah. No. This is exactly what these artifacts were used for. Thank you so much for sharing your knitting genius with us!

[@3ekaust]

Brilliant. This is the only theory i have ever seen that explains all the things we know about them (stashed with gold and coins, different hole sizes but consistent peg distribution, even the wax residue!!) The only doubt i have about this is that one piece that was found with no holes in it. There were also a couple (maybe just one) piece found that was an icosahedron, and that might make a different pattern "chain", but i don't see why this wouldn't work with it too. This might be it, it makes more sense than the glove knitting because it explains the holes having different sizes but the pegs staying at the same place in all faces. Overall i am quite convinced this is the true use of them or quite a close approximation. I am amazed. Thank you for sharing this!

[@alisakimi1]

The one without holes could have strictly been used for cordage, the one with holes for chain. It could also fit with them finding them mostly on war sights in that some of the armor was made with chainmail and could have been used for repair or something along those lines.

[@frontenac5083]

Really? LOL! Maybe you don't know a lot about these things, then! And granted, nobody does, but there are still a few irrefutable facts that we must keep in mind when proposing a theory. Obviously, this video ignores almost all of them.

[@3ekaust]

@@frontenac5083 sure, whatever makes you feel happy! 😊

[@LukeyHear]

@frontenac5083 Looking forward to your video.

[@rm4po4]

Were these used to "package" coin rolls?

[@campbellmorrison8540]

I have to say I see the eureka moment being the realization that opposing holes are the same size and rod can be passed through. Im impressed with your theory

[@ElectrikCandies]

I came upon your video because I had the exact same thought process and wondered if someone tried it! That would actually make the rings purposeful, as that would make it a little easier to pass a needle... the one found at Hadrian's Wall even have the tears at the edges from a needle passing regularly and indenting the metal. This is the most plausible hypothesis, well done!!!

[@CricketsBay]

Thank you for mentioning the obviously used one found at Hadrian's wall. Know-it-alls keep commenting that none of them show signs of use, which is blatantly false. Also, I think they were treasured items passed down through generations, so people were careful not to lose them, which helps explain why so few show up in the archeological record.

[@ElectrikCandies]

@@CricketsBay it's also possible that lots of people used wooden needles instead of metal needles as they would be cheaper, easier to find and carry around. That would mean that the needles would be lost to time and wouldn't have damaged the metal as much. It would also explain why some of them are damaged and others aren't. It's even possible that most dodecahedrons and tools alike were usually made out of wood as well (so absolutely lost to time). For example, it's a modern misconception that in ancient times, only royals and very wealthy individuals had statues made of themselves. The bourgeoisie also had some sculptures, but they were mostly made out of wood so they didn't stand much the passage of time and it's really uncommon to find some that are still well preserved. Small and intricate metal pieces requires a high level of craftsmanship so it's highly likely that these were not cheap and the people who owned them came from wealthy families (which is why they're so rare), and would be passed down from generation to generation.

[@SIC647]

​@ElectrikCandies Same with rune inscriptions: The ones we know of today are almost exclusively found on stone. But the few ones found on wood shows that it was the everyday writing material (the text being things like "Svend's grain", "Gunhildr likes Thormund", "Gyda says you need to come home for dinner now"). Also the fact that the word "letter" in the Nordic languages is bogstav, meaning beech staff.

[@winnieholly4886]

Wow! You not only deserve the prize for solving this but you should be gifted one of the original dodecahedrons as well!

[@DolloLama]

This is a practical and demonstrable solution. These would have been a vital technology in many domains. Your use of the wooden rod in conjunction tidies up the process and demonstrates how adept the process could be. The drawing through of strands through successively smaller holes is a great insight into how cordage could be packed once wound. You demonstrate great acumen.

[@bretthess6376]

Well done. I think you've got it. As a historian and a jeweler, I have long suspected these to be some manner of wire-working tool, but for what confounded me. So this is their proper function. How interesting.

[@rudolfecker7691]

Far and away the most convincing explanation I've heard regarding the use of the Roman (or is it Celtic?) dodecahedron. Plus an excellent demonstration to prove your theory - brilliant detective work! It appears to be a more complex form of what my gran, in the UK Midlands of the 1950s, used to call 'French Knitting' or 'caulking'. In that case the 'former' was a cotton reel with 4 panel pins around the top of the spindle hole and 'the caulk' product came out of the opposite side. I've always understood that the circular cord product was used to 'caulk' the gaps in planked boats.

[@alecford2457]

Do I remeber as a kid the cotton reel thing was used to make "rats tails" - the internet says I do!

[@megenberg8]

the caulking was soaked/dipped in tar to waterproof before placement 'tween ship laps - called pitching. thinking on investigating this process more!

[@Xsiondu]

Thank you. My 43 year long quest to find out what these confounding trinkets are for has come to an end. This demonstration is so satisfying that i will never hear or tolerate any attempt to explain them for any other purposes. Again i thank you. I can now return to my people's historical trade of vampire hunting without the distraction of wondering why these damnable dodecahedrons were everywhere vampires were.

[@afwalker1921]

Hey! As a vampire, I would ask you to reconsider your ancestral inheritance. We're not that bad, you know... and yes, we learned how to use these things from a older vampire named Caivs, who's been in the UK since Clavdivs was Imperator. We are allowed into the BritMu, at night! We are watching you! Snarl!!!

[@nichan008]

Is this satire?

[@afwalker1921]

@@nichan008 I'm sorry, no. We have always been with you.

[@nichan008]

@@afwalker1921 was referring to OP, not being willing to accept that this sort explanation has been ruled out before due to lack of wear on the artifacts. There are 10 year old videos that suggest weaving as a usage.

[@timothyperrigoue3997]

Well said... I feel altogether the same. It is like a Sherlock Holmes mystery! It took pure genius to solve, yet the solution seems obvious only after the fact.

[@starbrand3726]

SOLVED! The simplest solution is often the correct one.

[@Sandilandsandy]

It’s taken 2000 years but I think you’ve solved it!👏👏👏

[@TheBullethead]

This is the best explanation I've ever seen. Awesome research!

[@sharonothefae]

Oh Amy well done. I hope you get the recognition for this discovery.

[@jennifercheyne3465]

This is brilliant!! Just brilliant. And if they weren’t using these in this way (but this HAS to be it), we should be from now on. What you made is beautiful. So smart!!

[@peterkarargiris4110]

Absolutely fantastic ! If this isn't the solution to the mystery of the dodecahedrons, I don't know what is. Excellent video !

[@stubbsmusic543]

Wow! What a brilliant demonstration! Whoever is researching this should be made aware of what you just accomplished.

[@erinmaron3402]

I am freeaking out on this!!! Did you really just solve this timeless puzzle of history!!! Well done! WOW!

[@jennyj9791]

Mystery undeniably and irrefutably solved. There is a 0% chance these ancient Roman Dodecahedron thingy's were designed for something else and just happen to accidentally work perfectly for making any quantity needed of rope, cord, jewelry chain and even chain mail. You ladies are EXTREMELY resourceful and clever!

[@Kommander_Rahnn]

LOL. "Undeniably and irrefutably solved" I refuted this in about 3 seconds. 😂😂😂

[@jennyj9791]

@@Kommander_Rahnn That's why your opinion is worthless to me...

[@Kommander_Rahnn]

@@jennyj9791 1: This theory was presented at least 10 years ago by someone else. Look it up 2: A lot of these objects don't even have holes. And since you struggle with simple concepts I will explain that none of this is my opinion. These are facts.

[@jennyj9791]

@@Kommander_Rahnn I will simplify this so you can understand because I am obviously not the one struggling with simple concepts. I made a post on a video to the content creator, I did not make the post to you. Nor did I pose a query before the gallery, to which you would have been welcome to respond. You then took it upon yourself to inform me of your unsolicited opinion. This act reeks of being self absorbed which when combined with the arrogant tone with which you did so removes any doubt of your moral character being crap. You are not a good person and certainly not good enough for me to place any value whatsoever on your opinion. Your second post to me, inferring I am a simpleton, only serves to solidify my discernment of your poor moral character. Giving me reason to now believe you are morally bankrupt. I said it before, but you didn't understand. Perhaps having the facts of the situation highlighted will enable you to understand why I said... "That's why your opinion is worthless to me" It's a simple concept you missed the first time through, probably my fault for not being more descriptive so you could understand. However I am hopeful this time you understand that I realize how worthless you are, not only to me but also to society as a whole. Unless of coarse you are actually a good person that is just behaving badly by accident? In which case I would humbly apologize for my mistake. But I suspect you are incapable of filling those shoes, that requires something apparently beyond your grasp, sound moral character. I normally don't waste time with self absorbed morally bankrupt people, like yourself, however something told me you needed to be reminded of what and who you are. Maybe change is upon you? Maybe your world is in turmoil? I can only speculate, I don't know and it's really none of my business. Good luck...

[@eileenfb1948]

@@Kommander_Rahnn Did the ones without holes still have the little bumps on each corner? If they didn't then they were dice.

[@Kerplakistandan]

This is it! Someone finally figured these enigmatic items out. Congratulations!

[@pilkpulk8284]

Very good , best explanation so far! You deseve a place in the historybook!

[@ellen4956]

Excellent. I have seen some weird ideas for what this was used for, but this is one that makes sense! It always reminded me of a tool we had in the '60s for making daisies out of yarn, then attaching the daisies together to make throws. Thanks for posting this!

[@wattyler9806]

I've always wondered what they were used for your explanation makes perfect sense.

[@francesconicoletti2547]

To verify if the ancient ones were used in the same way, the wear patterns caused by the use proposed could be micro photographed on the test dodecahedrons . The wear pattern could be compared with the ancient dodecahedrons. Also searches should be made of any micro particles of gold, or other materials being worked that may have rubbed off onto the ancient dodecahedrons.

[@mickvonbornemann3824]

Gold wire is softer than bonze so there would be no wear.

[@geoffreypiltz271]

@@mickvonbornemann3824 Human feet are softer than rock but stone stairs will wear away with long term use.

[@annalidamitzen8625]

I agree, some micro tests would help with evidence for or against.

[@mickvonbornemann3824]

@@geoffreypiltz271 because most stone stairs are sedentary, & traditionally much historic footware had hobnails to slow ware. bronze isn’t sedendtary

[@geoffreypiltz271]

@@mickvonbornemann3824 I have seen limestone polished to a high shine by wallabies feet and they don't wear hobnails.

[@sherryhill3181]

Brilliant. Most plausible theory I have seen to date. Not surprised that it took a woman to noodle this out. Thank you Amy Gaines.

[@Jungleland33]

Brilliant! Well done. Seems the most plausible and practical solution for this quirky little gadget.

[@bpekim1]

This is so interesting, I’m glad you demonstrated it as your description of the process at the beginning was hard for me to visualize. This reminds me of a little tool that was shown to me by an art teacher in the seventies. You take an old wooden spool (they don’t make these using wood any longer) and hammer in four nails on one side in the shape of a square. Then you wrap string or yarn around the nails in the same manner as you demonstrated and pull the knitted “rope” through the other end of the hole in the middle of the spool.

[@megenberg8]

yes! i too recall that... thought it very hokey, rather Okefenokee. very old-fashioned. something to do when life down on the swamp has a chance to slow down somewhat, grans can set in her rocker and mums can churn the butter... gramps and pa whittling sticks at nights w/ frogs and crickets chirping steadily all night - a jumping catfish here and there! o it can be nice! but MUST we HAVE to do that spool with the 4 nails thingy EVER?!!!

[@d.l.d.l.8140]

I think you’ve done it. Of course you’ve probably only scratched the surface of all the variations but I think you have proof of concept. Congratulations!

[@YanniFotiadis]

Brilliant analysis and demonstration. Bravo!

[@randomvielleuse527]

Fabulous deduction! What a useful tool. Now I want one!

[@susanfrary6880]

I want one too!

[@zeekwolfe6251]

I am convinced, this is the purpose for dodecahedrons...jewelry making or other activity using wire, yarn, or other pliable material to manufacture decorative or usable objects.

[@RolftheRed]

I'm quite happy to see this as one definite use of this. And given my personal experience with this pattern weave, I'd quite like to have this tool. Well Done!

[@jillfarley520]

You're a genius! I realise that your mind is geared towards knitting and crocheting and possibly by extension knitting with nails in a cotton reel....you alone made this connection. Whoever invented this was really, really brilliant. Marvellous invention. It explains why the dodecahedrons are all different.

[@sketchitout]

I watched your video and was completely blown away : your idea is inspired, thoughtful and truly amazing . Its greatness lies in the fact that it comprehensively explains every aspect of the design of the dodecahedron .However, you go even further by proving it is fit for its intended function by producing the tangible end product before our very eyes !!

[@craiglester8676]

Wow. I hope you get the recognition you deserve. Experimental archaeology is important.

[@jamesbarisitz4794]

Your method makes perfect use of the tool in the weaving and sizing of the chain. Brilliant deduction and working proof!❤😊

[@andershamber6495]

When KZbin is at it's best. Thank you!❤

[@K2shadowfax]

Arrived here via algorithm...what a wonderful find! Never even knew such things (dodecahedrons for chain making) were a thing...so, many congrats on your incredible achievement!

[@mamoros56]

This reminds me of the wooden knitting "mushroom" from the 1930s-1940s that my mom passed on to me. It works well with yarn, and the process and output look very similar, though inverted. The dowel helps to keep the chain uniform in size. With its various-sized holes, the dodecahedron is necessary to pull the metal chain to smaller sizes. Brilliant! Thank you for solving this puzzle!

[@megenberg8]

surprise - the processes shown in this video have commonly been employed for many, many years in the metal industry - only by machinery! heated metal is softened and run through passes of varyingly sized forms and/or dies, cut and shaped, then applied pressure to and even drawn between rollers to arrive at the specified purpose for the unit. think of pipe manufacture and rods, for example. in gold and cloth, the material is already soft and can be highly desirable to individuals for everything wanting fastening and/or adornment! a truly universal market niche in great demand - so necessary, practical, and beautiful as jewelry. the Celts were renowned for their intricate work - so precise!

[@dudleywicker6116]

Thank you…….. Beautiful illustration of how that tool is used….. I think you nailed it!

[@billybones9117]

That's brilliant! Well done! I've been intrigued by this for years. Very convincing.

[@stevenrn6640]

I’m sold. You make use of every aspect and it is simple and effective.

[@leighharwood3886]

You did it! So obviously a knitting loom! Genius lies in pointing out something that seems obvious afterward. We all say, "Of course, why didn't I see it before?" Congratulations!

[@seedhound]

Amazing discovery. You have a great mind. Thank you for sharing this. Summerville, SC.

[@banjoganjo7116]

Best example and explanation ive seen so far.

[@RenoLaringo]

I’m grateful this video came first to me. This will spare me a lot of time going through all the other theories. This one definitely convinced me 100%.

[@pamelachristie5570]

This is very convincing. Your results look exactly like the 'knit' gold chains of antiquity. And if you're wrong, then just how DID the ancients make them? I hope the world takes note and gives you full credit. But I'm worried that unless you have the proper credentials, the 'experts' who've been baffled by this for so long might reject your theory out of pride. Let's hope that doesn't happen, and congratulations on your brilliant deduction!

[@frontenac5083]

LOL!

[@frontenac5083]

Are you for freaking real?

[@PatrickBaele]

Correct,well said

[@rgfs71]

I think the experts will be thrilled to see this. There is no need to diss experts and their expertise. Discovering what it may be and demonstrating how it would work requires the intelligence and expertise Amy possesses (Well done Amy! :). Proving this is indeed what they were used for requires a different knowledge base and expertise. They would likely cross-reference it with the size and appearance of jewelry or rope from the era and area where the dodecahedron are found as well as look for evidence that appears disprove it. There could very well be other artifacts that make more sense when considering this scenario as well. An expert in the field is likely to recognize these and make the connections; that’s what it means to be an expert. If an expert takes on this next step they would likely credit Amy for the discovery but they themselves would get ‘credit’ for proving it. That probably sounds like a bigger deal than it is. Publishing a paper on the topic is an application of their expertise and an expression of new knowledge gained. It’s a means to educate others, just in case it matters elsewhere. Being an expert in any area is not a contest, it’s means other’s can trust that you know what you are talking about. If a non-expert in this area were to publish the discovery they may find it hard to find anyone who will listen because there are probably a host of things they would miss.

[@Dooguk]

@@frontenac5083 Your theory got wasted by this didn't it?

[@robinbiddlecombe9202]

Seems to be an excellent tool for making knitted chains. Well done for putting 2 and 2 together :)

[@chadwellak]

It's like when a magician explains their trick: once you see how it's done the mystery evaporates. Every other hypothesis about the "mysterious Roman dodecahedron" suddenly seems ridiculous. Well done and congrats!

[@gavinhay6627]

I think you nailed it. I don't think anybody else has demonstrated a practical use for these things that makes sense.

[@susanfrary6880]

YOU are a genius! These are a magic crafter's tool for creating impossible braids. Your demonstration makes it seem intuitive yet these objects have been infamously mysterious to the world's great archeologists.

[@giovanni5063]

Genius thinking, extremely plausible conclusion. Kudos to you.

[@palomaalhambra2453]

I think you've cracked it, bravo. (Also with the yarn examples, perfect fingers for gloves!)

[@simpleiowan3123]

THISA is absolutely what they were used for. Astounding insight, for which I hope you get credit!

[@scotty3114]

I find your idea makes a great deal of sense.

[@HilaryB.]

Brilliant! This seems very plausible indeed. It reminds me of the French knitting we did as kids, where you wrapped your yarn round small nails hammered into the top of empty cotton reels.

[@Dooguk]

It's quite obvious from the comments, that lots of people's favourite theories have been challenged by this and they aren't very happy about it. Well done Amy. 👏

[@Tugela60]

The objects show no sign of wear though, so she is wrong.

[@laurah1020]

Impressive, imaginative solution to the practical application of these "mystery" items from antiquity. Great work, team!

[@CarrieFFoley]

It is a perfect tool in many ways! Is it cast. What a mind you must have for deciphering puzzles. Such a smooth draw --- puts childhood spools to shame. THANK YOU SO MUCH!! In the same way, granulation was rediscovered after many centuries!

[@dlmsarge8329]

This is a really impressive analysis and a superb demonstration!! I believe you've solved a mystery that has stumped the experts in this field. Congratulations and thanks very much for sharing your findings and posting your video!

[@euleimquadrat]

Amazing! This deserves far more attention.

[@frontenac5083]

It sure does! People deserve a good laugh!

[@leonardhambleton1890]

@frontenac5083 You’re nothing but a troll.

[@autumnleaves5973]

who are you, some embarrassed "researcher" who proposed the wrong things?@@frontenac5083

[@jake-qn3tl]

​@@frontenac5083What do you think they were used for?

[@CIMaddox56]

Oh my gosh girl I think you figured it out! Not too long ago I saw a video about these. And I've seen them over the years but as the guy was turning it in his hand I remembered the knitting tools as a kid where you used a spool with nails. And I think you figured it out completely.

[@oreopithecus]

This is a fascinating discovery. Respect and congratulations!

[@frontenac5083]

Where? Did I miss something?

[@leonardhambleton1890]

@frontenac5083 Bug off.

[@Dooguk]

@@frontenac5083 Your theory got wasted by this didn't it?

[@dalegray934]

I have wondered about these for decades. You have me absolutely convinced. Well done!!!

[@LordMondegrene]

This is the most ingenious reconstruction of a lost technology I've ever seen... you just worked it out from gold hoards and bronze polygons found together? Brava, bravissima!

[@philipstrachan6212]

Well Done Amy! This deserves greater exposure.

[@PatrickBaele]

Excellent. Best video on the subject online. You did a very convincing great job purely visual. Congratulations. You expanded the insight and knowledge of this precious object 👍👍

[@nelsonx5326]

Looks good. You should get an award for solving the mystery.

[@Jane_Ricciardi]

You solved the mystery!! That is awesome!!

[@braddofner]

I cant believe this hasnt gotten more attention. Great job! This has to be the most plausible solution I have seen. This should be very newsworthy. I guess sometimes you solve a mystery and nobody cares.... well I care. Hats off to you, bravo!

[@apborick5796]

Congratulations you clever clever woman! You're a prime example of good Ole Yankee know how.

[@JimEckhardt]

I am thoroughly convinced! As soon as you mentioned the possible purpose it immediately became clear to me too!

[@anhishere]

This is the most satisfying theory that I've seen proposed, as it makes use of the holes and studs. I wonder if the related icosahedron in your first picture has a similar usage.

[@frontenac5083]

LOL!

[@Dooguk]

@@frontenac5083 Your theory got wasted by this didn't it?

[@antonnym214]

Brilliant! Impressive deduction on your part, and I think you nailed it. Thank you.

[@Tindlez]

That is sheer genius, bravo!

[@frontenac5083]

LOL.

[@dmoney2015]

Wow you nailed it! The most complete explanation I have ever seen. Thank you.