Аңдатпа
Seals carved on semi-precious stones in South Kazakhstan belong to the period of the Late Antiquity - Earliest Middle Ages (IV-VI centuries). The most reliable method of dating is interpretation of the image/symbolism on the shield of the seal. The State. The State Hermitage has accumulated a significant number of finds (more than 800 gemstones) originating from the region from Crimea to East Turkestan. These carved seals are mainly collected, bought by the first travelers and researchers. Archaeological and random finds of gemstones of recent decades in South Kazakhstan took place on the sites of city oases of Otrar and Turkestan. E.A. Smagulov studied this finds. The last accidental findings occurred already Northeast from the Qaratau Ridge, on the Medieval site of Qumkent. As the result, the geography and chronology of the circulation/manufacture of such seals were expanded.