Archaeologists excavating the ancient settlement of Ushbastobe in Kazakhstan's Turkistan Region have uncovered a rare fragment of ancient glass-the first such discovery in nearly 20 years of research at the site.

According to researchers, the artifact may have reached southern Kazakhstan through the migration of the Sarmatians, an Iranian-speaking nomadic people who lived during the late Early Iron Age, The Caspian Post reports via Kazinform.

The discovery was made during the latest excavation season at the Sairam-Ugam State National Nature Park, where archaeologists are continuing to investigate the remains of the ancient Kangju (Kangyuy) state.

In addition to the glass fragment, the team uncovered household items, a ritual stone bowl, ceramics used for various purposes, and other artifacts that provide new insights into the daily life, culture, and traditions of one of Central Asia's earliest civilizations.