Product Description: A strand of ancient Roman Eye Beads from the Roman era.

Specifications:

• Origin: Alexandria (modern-day Egypt)
• Size:
  • Length: 113cm
  • Central Bead Size: 4mm x 17mm
  • Side (Round) Bead Size: 15mm x 13mm
• Note: This is an antique item and may have scratches, cracks, or chips.

About Roman Eye Beads:

Era: From the 1st century BCE to the 3rd century CE

Origin: Alexandria (modern-day Egypt)

Technique: Core-forming method (applying a release agent to a metal rod, wrapping molten glass around it, and attaching different colored glass in polka dot patterns)

Glass produced during the Roman era and the Sasanian Empire period is known as "Roman Glass." Ancient Roman traders, who were active in glassware trade, crafted a variety of bead designs to suit buyers' preferences.

Among Roman Glass, beads with eye-like patterns are called "Eye Beads." These were believed to have protective powers and were used as talismans. They are a recreation of ancient Phoenician beads, which date back several hundred years before the Roman era.

It's fascinating to think that ancient Romans admired beads from an even earlier period, highlighting the rich history of beads as an integral part of human civilization.