A metal magnet inspired by a Ming Dynasty (1368-1644) empress corona, on display at the National Museum of China, allows people to "wear" the head ornament with the aid of AI. [Photo provided by National Museum of China for China Daily]

A sophisticated gem in a crown once exclusively adorning a Ming Dynasty (1368-1644) empress is today "accessible" to the public, at the National Museum of China in Beijing where it is housed. Also, people can "wear" it, with the aid of AI, as long as they purchase a magnet replica at the museum's gift shop, and scan the QR code on the packaging.

This case showing how technology has kept heritage alive was shared with her fellow museum staff members from around the world by Ding Pengbo, deputy director of the National Museum, during her keynote speech at the ongoing Third UNESCO High-Level Forum for Museums, held from Wednesday to Friday in Hangzhou.

The forum is attended by experts in museum management and heritage protection from more than 60 countries and the region.

The discussions will revolve around the revolutionary roles of museums in carrying on culture and tradition, binding communities and lifelong learning, especially the deeper integration of AI.

According to Ernesto Ottone Ramirez, UNESCO assistant director-general for culture, museums interpret the past, engage with the present, and share visions of the future; the forum is to engage all in reimagining museums of tomorrow, to increase intercultural understanding.