This study investigates glass artifacts, including beads, pendants, and small sculptures, distributed in the Colchian culture from the Late Bronze to Early Iron Ages. Combining stylistic analysis with non-destructive laboratory methods, including LA-ICP-MS (Laser Ablation Inductively Coupled Plasma Mass Spectrometry), in collaboration with the IRAMAT CEB, University of Orleans/CNRS, our research aims to explore the role, diversity, and production recipies of glass items while tracing the cultural affiliations and potential origins of some raw glass groups. Our findings are based on data gathered from the laboratory examination of approximately 140 glass beads and fragments discovered in the collective cemeteries of Tsaishi, Ergeta, Paluri, and Mukhurcha, located in the central part of Colchis. The study not only highlights the uniqueness of certain glass artifacts but also sheds light on the economic and social interactions within Colchis and its neighboring regions. It emphasizes the exchange between Eastern and Western cultures, particularly with regions such as Iran, Mesopotamia, Syro-Palestine, and Egypt, demonstrating the far-reaching trade and cultural ties during this period.

First Author: Gvantsa Vachadze

Keywords:
Colchis
Glass
Late bronze age
Iron age
Cucasus
Ancient trade/exchange networks