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

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.