the large stone mounted in silver and hung on an elaborate woven silver strap, circa 1680.

£15,000

Bezoar stones are found in the intestines of animals. They are formed by indigestible materials being surrounded by layers of calcium and magnesium phosphate, which stomach contractions squeeze into a rounded shape.

The name bezoar is derived from the Persian word pa(d)zhar meaning ‘antidote against poison’. According to legend, bezoar stones gave protection against plagues and deflected evil spirits.