A 12-year-old schoolboy has discovered a rare ancient gemstone believed to be at least 1,500 years old during an archaeological excavation at the historic village of Korazim National Park in northern Israel.
The precious stone, a rare variety of agate known as a Nicolo gemstone, was found by sixth-grade student Alon Horowitz while participating in a community excavation organized by the Israel Nature and Parks Authority in collaboration with Ariel University.
Accidental Discovery
According to officials, Horowitz made the discovery moments before the excavation exercise concluded.
“After three days of excavations, about 10 minutes before we finished, I was digging with a pickaxe and suddenly saw something blue, round, and special,” the young student said.
“I picked it up and showed it to the archaeologist. When I realized it was something rare, I felt really happy and proud.”
Archaeologists believe the gemstone was once set in a piece of jewelry dating from either the Roman or Byzantine period, between the 1st and 6th centuries CE.
Window Into Ancient Life
Located a few kilometers north of the Sea of Galilee, Korazim was an important Jewish settlement that existed for nearly a thousand years, beginning around the end of the Second Temple period.
Excavation director Achia Cohen Tavor explained that Nicolo stones were considered luxury items in Roman times and were often associated with wealthy individuals.
He said the discovery provides valuable insight into the lives of ancient residents, revealing aspects of their social status, personal adornment, and economic connections.
“Small finds like this open a large window into the personal lives of the residents of ancient Korazim, not only its buildings and streets, but also their world of beauty, personal status and connections,” he noted.
Village Mentioned in the New Testament
Korazim, known in the New Testament as Chorazin, is mentioned in the Gospels of Matthew and Luke as one of the towns criticized by Jesus for failing to embrace his teachings.
The site contains significant remains from the Byzantine and Talmudic periods, including a synagogue, ritual bath, winepress, olive press and other agricultural installations.
Previous Finds
The latest discovery is not the first remarkable find by a young visitor at the archaeological site.
In 2021, another child reportedly found a 1,500-year-old bronze coin at the same location, highlighting the archaeological richness of the ancient settlement.
Archaeologists say the gemstone discovery underscores the importance of community excavations and public participation in preserving and uncovering historical treasures.
Tags: Archaeology, Israel, Ancient History, Gemstone Discovery, Korazim, Roman Era, Byzantine Period, Children, Cultural Heritage.
