Ancient Roman Iridescent Glass

Product Description: This strand features Roman Beads with iridescence, dating from the 1st century BCE to the 3rd century CE. The iridescence is a result of the glass being buried underground for many years, giving it a unique silver or multicolored sheen. Originating from Alexandria (modern-day Egypt), these beads are a rare and historical find.

Specifications:

• Origin: Alexandria (modern-day Egypt)
• Length: 51cm
• Size of Central Bead: 40mm x 21mm x 5mm
• Condition: Please note that as these are antique items, they may have scratches, cracks, or chips.

About Roman Beads:

Roman Beads date back to between the 1st century BCE and the 3rd century CE. They originate from regions such as Alexandria (modern-day Egypt) and the coastal areas of Syria. During the Roman Empire, from the 1st century BCE to the 4th century CE, glass craftsmanship flourished significantly. Many glass products were created and exported as trade goods. These glass artifacts, produced along the Mediterranean coast, spread across a vast region from Northern Europe to Japan.

Initially, most glass products were opaque, but by the 1st century CE, transparent glass became widely popular. Beads made specifically as jewelry items hold high value, while fragments of glass products like cups and pitchers with drilled holes are more common and, therefore, more affordable even today.