Rare Green & Multi-Color Mosaic Bead | Fustat Egypt c.1200 AD

Discover an authentic piece of history with this stunning Islamic-period mosaic glass trade bead from Fustat (Old Cairo, Egypt), dating back to circa 1100-1200 AD.

This rare, hand-crafted bead features a striking green base adorned with intricate multi-color mosaic inlays of red, white, and yellow—a true testament to ancient glass artistry.

• Size:
  • Diameter: 8 mm
  • Height: 8 mm
• Condition:
  • Excellent for its age, with well-preserved colors and patterns.

History & Significance:

Fustat, the first capital of Islamic Egypt, was a thriving glassmaking center. Ancient artisans meticulously crafted these exquisite mosaic beads by fusing colored glass canes into intricate patterns, slicing them into cross-sections, and embedding them onto a base bead. These beads were highly prized in medieval trade networks, traveling across Africa, the Middle East, and beyond.

Today, Fustat mosaic beads are rare collector’s items, cherished for their rich history and unmatched craftsmanship. Owning one means holding a piece of medieval artistry that has survived for over 800 years!

🔗 Explore more authentic Old Trade Beads
🔗 Browse our Trade Bead Archives