Ancient Amethyst Ring Found in Israel May Have Been Worn to Ward Off Hangovers
Discovery at Byzantine Winery
Archaeologists in Israel have unearthed an ancient amethyst and gold ring that may have been worn to prevent hangovers. The ring was discovered at a Byzantine-era wine-making facility in Yavne, south of Tel Aviv. The site was once home to a large-scale wine production operation, making the location particularly significant given ancient beliefs about the gemstone’s properties.
Amethyst and Intoxication
Amethysts have long been associated with warding off the effects of alcohol consumption. The word “amethyst” itself comes from the Greek word “amethystos,” meaning “not intoxicating.” Ancient Greeks believed that wearing amethysts or incorporating them into wine glasses could prevent drunkenness. This belief dates back to at least the 4th century B.C.E., as mentioned in a poem by the Greek poet Asclepiades of Samos.
Archaeological Context
The ring was found near a warehouse used to store wine at the production facility. Researchers were able to date the landfill where it was unearthed to the seventh century C.E., a time of political upheaval in the region. However, the ring itself may predate this period, possibly dating back to the third century C.E. during the Roman era.
Elite Ownership
Similar gold bands with inlaid amethysts were common among the elite in the Roman world. The ring found at the winery may have been worn by a member of Yavne’s upper class, flaunting their wealth and status. Both men and women wore such rings, indicating that the owner was likely a person of high social standing.
Symbol of Status and Wealth
“Finding an ancient ring with a semi-precious stone intact is rare,” said Amir Golani, an archaeologist with the Israel Antiquities Authority (IAA). “Its size and ostentatiousness indicate it belonged to someone who wanted to display their wealth.”
Heirloom or Lost Treasure
The ring may have been an heirloom, passed down over generations. Alternatively, it could have belonged to an unlucky visitor who dropped and lost it, leaving it to be discovered centuries later.
Additional Discoveries at Yavne
The IAA has been conducting large-scale excavations at Yavne ahead of a construction project. In addition to the winemaking facility, they have uncovered other significant artifacts, including a colorful, 1,600-year-old mosaic and an intact, 1,000-year-old chicken egg. Last year, teenage volunteers working on a dig in the city discovered a trove of hundreds of coins from 1,100 years ago.
Healing and Energy Beliefs
Beyond its association with sobriety, amethysts were also believed to possess healing powers and contain energy. This belief was common in the ancient world, especially regarding gemstones with blood-like hues.
Ongoing Research
Researchers continue to study the amethyst ring and its historical context. The discovery provides insights into the beliefs, practices, and social dynamics of ancient societies, particularly in relation to alcohol consumption and the symbolism of gemstones.