Eyes open – the Vikings came in color!
Colorful discoveries for lasting 'aha' moments.
In the gentle glow of the museum lighting lies a small treasure – barely larger than a thumbnail, yet full of fascinating history: A purple-white glass bead, meticulously handcrafted as over 1000 years ago. Visitors lean over the showcase in amazement, children's eyes light up when they hear that such beads once circulated as jewelry and trade goods on the Vikings' trade routes.
And now imagine: This story doesn't have to end behind glass. With faithful replicas like the purple-white eye beads, this moment can not only be told – but felt, grasped, shaped. For vivid history education that is tangible.
Small, round, steeped in history!
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Dimensions: approx. 9x11 mm – each bead is unique
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Hole diameter: approx. 1 mm – suitable for common threads
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Handcrafted – as authentic as in the early Middle Ages
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Material: Glass, purple-white marbled with typical “eye” pattern
History within reach – and allowed to take home
Glass beads in the Viking Age (ca. 800–1050 AD) were more than just fashionable accessories. They were considered symbols of wealth, social status, and – particularly exciting – as protective amulets. The so-called eye beads with contrasting colors and concentric circles were meant to ward off evil spirits and were often found in graves, for example in Birka (Sweden) or Haithabu (Germany).
Archaeological findings confirm their wide distribution – from the Arab region through the Baltic to Ireland. Handcrafted from colored glass, they testify to a high level of technical skill and active trade networking of the Vikings.
How they work, what they achieve
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Promote tactile learning – the bead in hand imprints more deeply than any picture
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Enhance museum educational units, for example, during bead threading like in the Viking Age
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Explain trade routes, material science & symbolism through a concrete object
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Inspire creative participatory actions – from jewelry design to role-play
The typical “eye design” is no coincidence but consciously chosen: It was supposed to ward off evil glances in its time and was considered a protective symbol. Exactly such stories can be wonderfully told through the object – an ideal conversation starter for visitor groups of all ages.
“Any questions?” – The little bead 101
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Are the beads suitable for children's hands?
Yes – due to their size (approx. 9x11 mm) and smooth surface, they are comfortable in the hand and also easily graspable for smaller hands. However, we recommend a brief guide and supervision during activities with children aged six and over.
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Can the beads be threaded?
Of course – with a hole diameter of 1 mm, common threads and leather cords fit through. Ideal for crafts or participatory stations.
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Are these replicas suitable for museum use?
Yes – the beads are stylistically based on historical finds but are modern replicas. They are perfect for interactive museum education, as they are robust, affordable, and authentically designed.
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How can the topic of glass be expanded in the museum context?
In combination with themes like craftsmanship, trade, symbolism, women's roles, or amulets, a fascinating, interdisciplinary storytelling world emerges.
Feedback from the field
“The beads perfectly complemented our participatory station on the topic of 'Viking trade.' Children were fascinated by the vibrant colors, adults by the history behind it. A small object – big impact!”
– Museum Education Service, Museum NRW
Practical ideas for your exhibition
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“Bead Workshop” station: Visitors thread their own Viking necklace
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Trade route game: Kids “trade” beads on maps based on historical trade routes
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Storytelling corner: Bead in hand – listen to or read the story
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Complementary use with Roman, Celtic, or Early Middle Ages materials
All activities can be implemented without extensive preparation and promote active, exploratory learning – the central goal of successful museum education.
Forum Traiani® | Because history captivates!
Gefahren- und Sicherheitshinweise | Danger and safety information | Indicaciones de peligro y seguridad | Consignes de danger et de sécurité
Product safety information
Manufacturer information:
Schwarzweiss Dienstleistungs GmbH
Beningsgasse 1
Hessen
Glauburg, Deutschland, 63695
https://www.Der-Römer-Shop.de
| Material: |
Glass |
| Period: |
RomeViking |
| Hole diameter: |
1 mm |
| SKU: |
21569
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| Shipping weight: |
0,03 kg
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| Item weight: |
0,02 kg
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| Content: |
5,00 pc
|
| Dimensions
( Length × Width ):
|
1,10 × 0,70 cm |
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