Usually very light in color-- either white, pink, grayish or blue-chalcedony is a translucent or transparent crypto crystalline variety of quartz almost always used in cabochon form for gems. It is most commonly found in the deep recesses of volcanic rocks and in Antiquity the most prized variety came from Chalcedon in Bithynia in Asia Minor. The Egyptians, Romans and peoples of the Holy Land frequently carved intaglio gems into it, preferring the milky white variety above all others. Medicinally, Chalcedony is said to have the power to drive away fevers, to cure or prevent diseases of the eye (especially cataracts) and to aid in the relief of gallstones. It was one of the amuletic stones used by the ancients to banish bad dreams. Its colors are generally of the soothing variety, and those who chose to wear the stone are blessed with a peaceful and equable disposition. The garnet was highly prized in the Classical World. Its rich color, the reddish purple associated with royalty, made it especially sought after for jewelry. The garnet was also favored in the jewelry of the European Dark Ages and Medieval period. The famous Sutton Hoo Treasure found in England contains over 4,000 cut and faceted garnets. As with many gems, the finest varieties come from India, which was true in Antiquity as well as today. According to Talmudic legend, the only source of light on Noah's Ark was a single large garnet. Therapeutically, garnet is believed to keep the wearer free from wounds and to promote good health in general. It is especially useful for preventing skin diseases and giving a glowing complexion.