Roman Eye Beads Strand

Product Description: This strand features Roman Eye Beads from the ancient Roman period.

Origin: Alexandria (modern-day Egypt)

Size:

• Length: 82 cm
• Central Bead Size: 17mm x 12mm

Note: As this is an antique item, it may have scratches, cracks, or chips.

About Roman Eye Beads:

Era: 1st century BC to 3rd century AD

Origin: Alexandria (modern-day Egypt)

Technique: Core-wound application (a method where a release agent is applied to a metal rod, and molten glass is wound around it; additional colored glass is then applied in polka dot patterns)

The glass created during the ancient Roman period and the Sassanian Persian period is known as "Roman Glass." Ancient Roman merchants, who were active in glass trade, crafted beads in various designs to cater to buyers' preferences.

Among these Roman glass items, those with eye-like patterns are called "Eye Beads." They were believed to have protective powers and were a recreation of ancient Phoenician beads, which were used as talismans. These Phoenician beads date back several centuries before ancient Rome.

It is fascinating that ancient Romans admired beads from even more ancient times. The history of beads indeed reflects the history of humanity.