Product Description: This is a strand of Roman Eye Beads from ancient Rome.

• Origin: Alexandria (modern-day Egypt)
• Size:
  • Length: 82cm
  • Center Bead Size: 13mm x 12mm
  • Side Bead Size (Right): 13mm x 13mm
  • Side Bead Size (Left): 11mm x 14mm

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

About Roman Eye Beads:

Era: 1st century BC to 4th century AD

Origin: Alexandria (modern-day Egypt)

Technique: Core-wound application (applying a release agent to a metal rod, wrapping molten glass around it, and then attaching other colored glass in polka dot patterns)

Glass made during the ancient Roman and Sassanian Persian periods is known as "Roman Glass." Ancient Roman merchants, who were actively involved in glass trade, sold various bead designs tailored to the preferences of their buyers.

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

It's fascinating that ancient Romans admired even older beads, making bead history a true testament to human history.