Persia, Hellenistic period, 4th-1st century BC. The ancient necklace consisting of 27 garnets of irregular shape, the semi-translucent stones of a fine dark bloodred color. The stones were found near Persepolis, the ancient capital of Persia. They are held together by a modern plastic string and gold clasp. This piece was personally examined by Burmese American archaeologist and gemologist Terence Tan, a leading expert in Pyu art and Burmese gemstones, and Hungarian gemologist Dr. József Takács. Their analysis finds that the stones are antique red garnet of very high quality from Yemen or Ethiopia and traded to the Persian Empire. The stones are original, ancient, cut, bored, and ground. The color of the stones is original and natural. The stones have been cleaned by hand while preserving the fine original ancient patina. The holes are ancient, handmade, and irregular. A certificate signed by Dr. Zelnik attesting to the above will be handed to the winning bidder upon request. Provenance: Ex-collection of the imperial family of Mohammad Reza Pahlavi, last Shah of Iran (a letter of provenance signed by Dr. Zelnik will be handed out to the winning bidder upon request). Ex-Collection of The Zelnik István Southeast Asian Gold Museum, acquired from the above. Institutional art collection in Belgium, acquired from the above. Condition: Very good condition with expected minor traces of age and wear. Weight: 128.8 g Dimensions: Length 39 cm