Ancient Roman Glass – Mount Carmel, Israel
Recovered from the Mount Carmel region, these fragments originate from the Roman glass industry that thrived between the 1st century BCE and the 4th century CE. The glass was originally formed through sand rich in silica and melted with natron, a naturally occurring soda ash used as a flux. Over centuries, burial in mineral-rich soils caused a fine iridescent surface and vivid coloration—ranging from sea-green and aqua to soft golden tones—through a process called weathering hydration.

Each fragment represents a tangible piece of Roman craftsmanship and trade history, illustrating the technological leap that made glass production affordable across the empire.

For further reading, see:
Glass Finds from the Roman-Period Cemetery at Ḥorbat Mitla, Mount Carmel – Yael Gorin-Rosen, ‘Atiqot’ Vol. 117 (2025)
The Ancient Glass Industry in Israel: Summary of the Finds and New Discoveries – Yael Gorin-Rosen (2000)

5.69 grams / 28.45 carats / 16.8 x 12.1 x 8.5 mm