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Are we entirely sure it's not just an ornament? I've got all kinds of things that aren't even ritual objects.
That is not an uncommon guess, but the argument against it is that these took some sophistication to make. This isn't some disposable gewgaw. These were made with relatively tight tolerances and exhibited the best metalworking fabrication of the age. One theory I've seen seriously floated was that they were made as a demonstration of metal working competency, the equivalent of a benchy in 3D printing.
If that's the case, it could have been a craftsman's magnum opus. A certification you prominently display to show your wares aren't forgeries.
Maybe they're just like the ancient equivalent of the fancy expensive gaudy crystal pieces you can get today.
https://www.swarovski.com/en-US/p-5619218/Jungle-Beats-Parrot-Couple-Bell-Brio/
God so many better ways to spend $1800
They probably just have no practical purpose.
No, no you don't. Everything that isn't fully functional and necessary for life is a ritual object! And also some of the the other things to! It's all ritual! It's ritual all the way down, baby!
So you’re saying I’m a ritual object? Huh, go figure.
No, sorry. You're a roommate. Every thing is a ritual object, every one is a roommate and good friend.
Have you ever been inserted or had something inserted?
Yes.
I have been ejected. Does that count?
Are you asserting that an ornament can't be categorized as a religious artifact? Cuz if so, I (or you) have some explaining to do.
Also, I think people have found them on people's bodies and in their purses, indicating it's something they might carry around regularly.