E. Cobham Brewer 1810–1897. Dictionary of Phrase and Fable. 1898.
Necklace.
A necklace of coral or white bryony beads used to be worn round the necks of children to aid their teething. Necklaces of hyoscyamus or henbane-root have been recommended for the same purpose. In Italy coral beloques are worn as a charm against the “evil eye.”
1
The diamond necklace (1785). (See DIAMOND NECKLACE.)
2
The fatal necklace. Cadmos received on his wedding-day the present of a necklace, which proved fatal to everyone who possessed it. Some say that Vulcan, and others that Euro’pa, gave the necklace to Cadmos. Harmonia’s necklace (q.v.) was a similar fatal gift. (See FATAL GIFTS.)
