Are Crystal Skulls Ancient Relics or Modern Hoaxes?
Crystal skulls were once regarded as the most extraordinary artifacts from pre-Columbian times. However, modern research methods have left no room for illusions regarding their authenticity.
6 min readMay 21, 2024
The examined objects were not produced in pre-Columbian Mesoamerica, and it is likely that most specimens in museum collections and private holdings are mere fakes. Skillfully crafted and strikingly impressive, they lack any historical value.
Archaeological frauds have a long history. Fake artifacts from the past were intended to bring fame and wealth to their supposed discoverers. However, as science advances, developing research techniques have exposed archaeological hoaxes, bringing not glory but disgrace to the forgers. Fake artifacts include those from Michigan and the terracotta figures of Etruscan warriors. Crystal skulls, which emerged on the antiquarian market in the late 19th century, most likely belong on this list as well.
