Originating in the Near East, where the production of metal ware flourished, glass was the first “jewel” made by human hands. In the beginning, it was sought after for its similarity to natural gems. For example, the blue semiprecious stone, lapis lazuli, was first mined only in distant Afghanistan and was highly desired by the Mesopotamians and the Egyptians. Thereby, many blue glasses resembling it came to be made.