Rare bead artifact found in Aklan

A rare type of bead has been found during the four-day archaeological digging inside two caves in Kalibo, Aklan.

National Museum Researcher Giovanni Bautista said the team found a piece of Carnelian bead, which is a semi-precious gem stone that is used as jewelry in India, Brazil, Siberia and Germany.

“What puzzles us is why a Carnelian bead has been found at the caves,” said Bautista, who led the three-man research team of the National Museum.

“The Chinese traders may have brought it here. Since we had only seen one piece, we believe they are still more of them that have to be unearthed,” added Bautista.

The National Museum team also found 15 kilos of teeth, earthen wares and other Chinese artifacts believed to trace back during the Ming Dynasty.

Bautista noted that the two caves of Tigayon Hill, which is the highest peak in Aklan, have different characteristics.

“The first cave may have been a burial site,” said Bautista as it is where the 15 kilos of human teeth were found.

“The second cave was where most artifacts were found including the ceramics,” he said.

With little time to explore the other caves, Bautista reiterated he will suggest to the National Museum to conduct more diggings at Tigayon Hill.

It was the local government of Kalibo that requested the National Museum to conduct archaeological excavation to provide more information that will boost its historical and cultural tourism.