This ancient necklace dates to 2000BCE. An inscription on the centre stone is a South Arabian script from the 8th century BCE. - From "Gems and Gemstones: Timeless Natural Beauty of the Mineral World" by Lance Grande and Allison Augustyn, 2009, University of Chicago Press.
Because of its wine-like colour, early Greek legends associated amethyst with Bacchus, the god of wine. Other legends reflected the belief that amethyst kept its wearer clear-headed and quick-witted in battle and in business affairs. Because amethyst was associated with wine, it was believed that wearing amethyst prevented drunkeness.
Fine amethysts have been set in religious jewellery and crown jewels for centuries. It was once considered equal in value to ruby, emerald and sapphire. It’s no wonder that fine amethyst adorns the fingers of bishops as well as the coronation regalia of the British royal family.
Amethyst is the birthstone for February and one of the emblems of the twelve apostles.
