Ancient Agates
Agate beads are among the oldest beads produced, dating back to close to 6000 BC. By the 3rd millennium BC, agates were actively traded across the Near East. Agate, as a stone, is often formed with concentric bands. The bands sometimes look like eyes, fanciful scallops or landscapes. In ancient times, agate was valued as a talisman. It was said to quench thirst and protect against fevers. Our collection includes agates from the areas of Sumeria, Mesopotamia, Bactria and the Indus Valley regions. Later, Roman agates were traded throughout this whole region.
