Compositional Variation and Color Diversity of Glass Beads from the 4th Century Tomb Complex in Korea

Jeongeun Yi,Hye Ri Yang,Chan Hee Lee

doi:10.3390/app11115233

Abstract

This study investigated the chemical compositions and color diversity of various colored glass beads excavated from the 4th century Suchonri site in Korea. The results reveal that the compositions of the coloring materials and stabilizers contain black or white impurities, and there are clear boundaries in the weathered surfaces within the glass beads. The weathered side turned brown, the amounts of Na and K are greater, and there is a decrease in alkali elements. The fragments in blue-green beads from tomb No. 11 were identified as potash glass, whereas the rest of the samples were soda glass. Analysis of the coloration elements identified Fe and Cu in all glass beads, and it was estimated that both elements resulted in a green color. Fe was predicted to cause a brown color. The results of the study may be used not only for scientific interpretation of the relics from the Suchonri tomb complex but also as archaeological evidence that may contribute to the material characterization of the ancient glass from the Korean peninsula.

Highlights

Ancient glass is classified according to its composition, color, excavation sites and form, and can be subdivided into soda glass, potash glass, soda-lime glass, potash-lime glass, lead glass, and lead-barium glass on the basis of its composition
The ancient glass excavated in southern Korea belongs to the soda and potash glass categories, which can be classified into lead glass, lead-barium glass, and potash glass groups [1]
The Suchonri site is an ancient tomb complex in Korea that was constructed in the Baekje Kingdom in the 4th century

Summary

Introduction

Ancient glass is classified according to its composition, color, excavation sites and form, and can be subdivided into soda glass, potash glass, soda-lime glass, potash-lime glass, lead glass, and lead-barium glass on the basis of its composition. The ancient glass excavated in southern Korea belongs to the soda and potash glass categories, which can be classified into lead glass, lead-barium glass, and potash glass groups [1]. Glass products were widely used in ancient Egypt and medieval Europe and excellent craftsmanship was developed, few glass products have been manufactured in Korea since the 10th century. This is due to improvements in the technology involved in producing earthware and ceramics, as well as the practical use of such equipment, which have made the production of glass a low priority. Glass products are not often discovered during excavations, and they are found in a relatively small excavation area [1]

Methods

Results

Conclusion