Ancient clay beads reveal early symbolic craft by Natufian societies

In a study published in Science Advances, scientists reported the discovery of 142 small clay beads unearthed at five Natufian sites in what is now Israel. The beads, shaped as cylinders, discs and ellipses, often feature a thin red slip coating—the earliest known use of this technique worldwide. Microscopic traces reveal fingerprints from individuals of various ages, indicating that both children and adults participated in their production.

Researchers identified 19 distinct bead types that mimic locally important plants such as wild barley and lentil, underscoring the cultural significance of flora. Some beads appear to have been made specifically for children, including a tiny clay ring. The study argues that these objects reflect a “symbolic revolution” that preceded permanent settlement and the advent of pottery, offering new insight into early social organization and learning practices.