A STUNNING Roman bracelet is to go on public display for the first time this week.

The silver bracelet dating to the 2nd or 3rd century is put at around 2,000 years old.

It was found in July 2012 in a field near Dalton-in-Furness by a metal detectorist.

Officials preparing to unveil it to the public at Barrow's Dock Museum said 'nothing quite like this has been found in Furness before'.

A donation from the Furness Maritime Trust enabled the council-run museum to acquire the special treasure.

It is due to go on display on Friday.

Officials described the bracelet as being made of silver with a separate bezel.

The gem stone is engraved with an image of a seated Jupiter, with wreath and full-length drapery.

In his left hand he holds a sceptre and in his extended right hand he holds a 'patera' - a shallow bowl - above a stylised flaming altar.

Both emperors and divinities are frequently depicted in Roman imagery pouring libations (offering to the gods).

The Dock Museum have explained that Jupiter is the father of Hercules in ancient Roman religion and mythology.

A similar bracelet has been found in Siska, Slovenia.

A spokeswoman for the Museum said the Furness bracelet shows the reach of the Roman empire and is likely to have been traded with a local.

The Museum said there is no conclusive proof that the Romans settled in Furness as no Roman building or structure has been found to date.

However, they say  some intriguing objects have been found and the Romans would certainly have been well-aware of Furness.

“It’s a superb find and we’re excited to have it on display in our new archaeology gallery,” said Sabine Skae, the museum’s collections manager.

We’re also going to celebrate the Roman treasure on a family fun day on Saturday April 12 (from 11-4pm, free admission) where you can meet a Roman soldier and also a Celt so that you can understand the Roman conquest from both sides! Schools have also been invited to Roman workshops on the 21st and 28th March.

For more information on the Romans in Furness, visit the Dock Museum's website at http://goo.gl/CX7b8e