Archaeologists with the Israel Antiquities Authority found a gold bead crafted in Mesopotamian style while excavating a Roman structure in Jerusalem. The tiny bead was found in pristine condition in dirt removed from the Roman building, from about 1,600 years ago.

Made of pure gold, the bead was crafted by affixing tiny golden spheres together to shape a tiny ring. It might have been worn as a singular piece, like a pendant, but more likely formed part of a larger piece, said Dr. Amir Golani, the IAA’s ancient jewelry expert.

painting.” The metallurgical technique underlying the bead emerged in Mesopotamia around 4,500 years ago, the IAA said, and its manufacture speaks to great skill. “Understanding the materials and their properties is required, as well as control over the heat to solder the tiny balls together to create a tiny ring while preventing overheating which could melt the gold,” Dr. Golani said.