Dzneladze O. The Beads and Pendants of the North Pontic Sarmatians.

This thesis is the complex analysis and characteristic of the beads and pendants from Sarmatian burials of the North Pontic Region. The review of the scientific literature and history of the study of beads from different cultures of Sarmatian period is provided. The 157 types and 193 variants of beads and 32 types and 39 variants of pendants were distinguished. The monochrome and polychrome glass beads, the beads made of semiprecious stones, metal, amber, jet and Egyptian faience beads have been classified. The correlation of the beads with other elements of grave goods, such as the fibulae, mirrors, red slip pottery, combs and jewelry, demonstrates that the beads of some types could be used as the chronological marker. The main regularities of the formation of beads composition in the different periods of Sarmatian culture in the North Pontic Region have been discovered. The system of the trade routes delivered the beads to the Sarmatians is reconsructed. The role and character of the beads and pendants as Sarmatian dress accessories are determined. The aspects of the spiritual culture associated with this category of adornment were considered. Keywords: bead, pendant, fine jewelry, dress accessories, Sarmatian culture, North Pontic Region, typology, chronological marker.