The Oido tunnel tombs in Wakuyacho, Miyagi (Japan) are tumuli that have been constructed between the late 7th century and the early 8th century. During scientific investigations between 1962 and 1964, a glass bead with a spotted pattern (concentric circles) rare to Japan was excavated, which is believed to be originated in South Asia or Southeast Asia. By evaluating the colored portion of the glass bead using the SmartLab Automated Multipurpose X-ray Diffractometer, it was possible to determine its chemical composition and provide a scientific basis for assumptions on the fabrication technique and a reevaluation of its origin. The research was conducted by the Nara National Research Institute for Cultural Properties in 2013, and presented at the 31st Congress of the Japan Society for Scientific Studies on Cultural Properties in 2014.
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