Bead in the Shape of a Conch Shell c. 501 - 800

This is a bead made of blue glass in the shape of a conch shell. Although we don't know exactly when or where it was made, similar beads were popular in many ancient Mediterranean cultures, including Egypt, Greece, and Rome. Glass beads like this were not just pretty ornaments. Their color was achieved by adding mineral compounds during the heating process, suggesting the maker had knowledge of chemistry, and access to trade networks. The conch shell shape might have had symbolic meaning, perhaps related to the sea, trade, or even religious beliefs. Beads were traded across borders; they've been found in tombs, temples, and private homes. The beads tell us about daily life and give clues to the interconnectedness of these societies. Historians study archaeological reports, ancient texts, and museum collections to understand the significance of objects like this. The bead reminds us that even the smallest artifacts can tell us big stories about the past.