Carnelian and crystal, 21.48 grams, 50 cm [20 inches]. Circa 1st century BC - 1st century AD. A re-strung carnelian necklace, which has over 150 various shaped ancient carnelian beads, with one faceted tear-drop 'amulet' bead made from crystal. These beads are of different shades of orange and red with different degrees of transparency. Some of the beads are drilled from both ends and they have conical opening, fitted with a modern clasp to allow it to be worn. Reference: Thames & Hudson, The History of Beads from 30,000 BC to the Present; Limper K. Uruk. Perlen. Ketten. Anhänger. Ph. Von Zabern, 1989, tbl. 56, 57. Extremely fine condition. Provenance: from an old English collection, found eastern Mediterranean.