Gold was worked in the Andean region from 1500 BC; gradually the technology was introduced to regions further north, from Ecuador to Panama and eventually into Mesoamerica.
Based mainly on alluvial gold from the rivers of the highland zone, goldwork became a major element of the ritual life of communities in the Cordillera and coasts of the north-west, symbolizing the life-giving power of the sun and used as offerings to the gods. It also signified noble status and was a common offering in the burials of important individuals.
Some objects were made of pure gold, some of gilded silver or copper, others of an alloy of these metals. Tumbaga, a richly coloured alloy of gold and copper, was very popular in some regions. At first, the gold was hammered into sheets from which objects, often very elaborate, were made. This remained the main gold working technique over most of the area but casting became popular in northern regions. A mixture of different techniques might be used on the same object. Most goldwork was made into ornaments, masks and figurines.
