Ilminster Roman Ring artefact to be displayed in Ilminster

Somerset Council’s library service has used 3D scanning and printing to create a replica of the Ilminster Ring, a gold artefact dating back to 297AD.

The project was made possible with funding from the British Library and involved the use of a sophisticated 3D hand scanner to produce a highly detailed digital model of the ring.

The original ring and its 3D-printed replica will be displayed at the Ilminster Roman Ring Discovery Day on Thursday, August 20.

The event is organised by the South West Heritage Trust and Ilminster Arts Centre.

Cllr Federica Smith-Roberts, Somerset Council’s lead member for communities, said: "The Discovery Day provides a great opportunity for us to showcase how modern technology can support heritage and local history projects.

"Visitors will be able to learn about the scanning process behind the Ilminster Gold Ring, see how digital models can be created from physical objects, and discover how 3D printing can be used to reproduce historical artefacts for education and engagement purposes.

"Staff from Somerset Libraries will also be on hand to showcase a broad range of digital and other services available to anyone."

Somerset Libraries has offered 3D printing services for around 10 years, supporting individuals, schools, community groups, and businesses in using the technology for design, prototyping, and education.

Councillor Smith-Roberts said: "It's a fantastic example of how digital technology can help bring local history to life for new audiences."

Over the past decade, Somerset Libraries has delivered a range of 3D printing projects.

These include creating bespoke parts for an electric mobility company, where the team produced small, customised components to support product development and problem-solving.

The library service also helped produce oversized dice for the 'Dice Project,' a community initiative that needed large, custom-made dice not easily available through commercial sources.

The service has been widely used by schools and other groups to turn ideas into physical objects.

From educational models to prototypes and personalised items, 3D printing has given hundreds of people hands-on experience with digital design and manufacturing.

The technology is part of Somerset Libraries’ wider offer to help residents explore new tools, develop digital skills, and bring creative projects to life in a supportive, community-focused environment.