Sixth Grader Discovers Rare Gemstone at Historic Biblical Site

An intriguing discovery was made by a sixth grader at a biblical site connected to Jesus’ ministry, revealing insights into life in ancient Galilee. Announced by the Israel Nature and Parks Authority (INPA) in early June, the find occurred at Korazim National Park near the Sea of Galilee.

Korazim, identified with the biblical village of Chorazin, is mentioned in the New Testament. It is known as a place where the residents witnessed Jesus’ miracles but did not repent. Situated roughly two miles north of Capernaum, the ancient fishing village served as a focal point for Jesus’ ministry.

The gemstone, dating back to the sixth century A.D., features a striking pale-blue center. Alon Horowitz, a 12-year-old student from Ramat Korazim Regional Elementary School near Elifelet, discovered it during an excavation organized by the INPA. The excavation allows local students to work alongside archaeologists, gaining insights into ancient life, and is conducted in partnership with Ariel University.

Horowitz detailed the moment of discovery, stating, “After three days of digging, about 10 minutes before we finished, I was digging with my trowel and suddenly saw something blue, round, and special.” Upon realizing the rarity of his find, Horowitz expressed feeling immensely proud and received accolades from friends, teachers, and family.

The gemstone likely belonged to an affluent local elite, according to Achia Kohn-Tavor, director of excavations at Chorazin. Kohn-Tavor identified it as a Nicolo, a rare type of agate considered luxurious during the Roman and Byzantine eras. “It was found inside a wealthy estate, suggesting it belonged to a member of an affluent household,” he noted. The gemstone could have been owned by either a man or a woman.

The presence of the Nicolo at Korazim is believed to be a result of long-distance trade routes connecting the region to the broader Roman and Byzantine world. Although locally sourced stones were not used, its presence indicates the owner had access to international luxury items.

Interestingly, Horowitz is not the first young Israeli to uncover significant archaeological finds. Recently, an 8-year-old boy from Rehovot discovered a 1,700-year-old Roman statuette fragment, and last year, a 3-year-old girl found a 3,800-year-old Canaanite amulet near Tel Azeka.