Late 14th century – early 15th century
Rock crystal
Diameter: 1.35 cm, height: 0.85 cm
A small carnelian bead was found in a 14th-century craftsman’s belt pouch discovered in the territory of the Vilnius Lower Castle. Beads made of rock crystal and pearl, dated to the late 14th – early 15th century, were also found there.
Objects (including beads) made of rock crystal were not uncommon in Viking Age and medieval jewelry, both in Scandinavia and in other regions. Rock crystal continued to be used in later periods as well, in both jewelry and liturgical objects.
Archaeological finds made of gemstones or decorated with precious stones can be seen in the exhibition of the Palace of the Grand Dukes of Lithuania – in the Treasury.
Information prepared by Rasa Gliebutė
