Combining two of the most beautiful and powerful members of the quartz family, this radiant necklace is certain to lend its glow to whoever is lucky enough to wear it. Rock crystal is considered in the Orient to be the perfect jewel, symbolic of purity, infinity, patience and perseverance. In the Classical world, the finest works of art and the most precious amulets were carved from it and given as gifts to royalty. The early Christians revered its purity as symbolic of the Immaculate Conception, while the people of ancient America believed the souls of the deceased resided there. In antiquity, amulets of this stone were used to ward off the evil eye, bring rainfall and prevent bad dreams. Medicinally, rock crystal is believed to cure swellings of the glands, ailments of the eye, heart disease and intestinal pains. Those who wear it are kept pure in body and spirit. The name of this exquisite purple quartz comes from the Greek word meaning "not drunk", as the stone was believed in antiquity to keep the wearer sober no matter how much wine he might consume. All the great ancient civilizations valued the gem, which was particularly popular in Egypt for scarabs and in Greece and Rome for intaglio rings. The oldest known stone in the Crown Jewels of England is an amethyst first worn in the 11th century by Edward the Confessor. Many therapeutic properties are ascribed to the gem: it can cure gout, it cleanses the body of impurities, it keeps the mind clear and alert and improves the memory, it gives the wearer pleasant dreams and keeps him immune from infection and contagious diseases. Because of its purple hue, amethyst is also said to have a soothing effect on the wearer, preventing outbursts of temper and making one generally amiable. It is also reputed to inspire creativity. Because it is a crystal, the energy level radiating from this translucent royal gem is particularly high, causing the wearer to feel wonderful both inside and out.