The Bolinao Skull was discovered during an excavation led by archaeologists from the National Museum of the Philippines. Its most prominent feature is the gold tooth ornaments. At the Balingasay Site in Bolinao, Pangasinan, Philippines, archaeologists unearthed 67 skulls, all of which had gold-decorated teeth and were found alongside trade pottery dating back to the early Ming Dynasty in China around the 15th century AD. The tooth ornaments were 10 mm wide and 11.5 mm high. Gold flakes were observed on the cheek surfaces of the upper and lower incisors and canines.

Upon further examination, it was discovered that these teeth had drilled holes, which were filled with gold discs, buttons, pins, or wires. Each type of ornament had its own design

In the beautiful coastal town of Bolinao, Philippines, archaeologists made a groundbreaking discovery that has changed our understanding of ancient Philippine civilization. Among 67 other skulls and Ming Dynasty ceramics, they found a remarkable artifact – the Bolinao skull.

Dating back to the 14th or 15th century AD, the skull revealed a surprising secret that left experts stunned. Upon closer inspection, they discovered intricate gold decorations on the teeth. Tiny pieces of gold, arranged in a beautiful fish scale pattern, decorated both the upper and lower jaws.
This was no ordinary form of dental decoration; it was a testament to the mastery of ancient Filipino craftsmen.

Gold discs, pins, posts and wires are skillfully inserted into the drilled holes in the teeth, creating an impressive display of ancient cosmetic dentistry.