A necklace is an article of jewelry, which worn around the neck. Necklaces frequently formed from a metal chain, often attached to a locket or pendant. Necklaces manufactured with cloth, and they sometimes contain rocks (particularly gems), wood, and/or shells. Necklaces worn throughout history, by both men and women, and have been used as marks of distinction in many cultures, including the ancient Hebrew culture. Necklaces, handsome and richly ornamented, were a principal part of the dress, both of men and women, among the ancient Egyptians; and some idea of the number of jewels they wore may be formed from those borrowed by the Israelites at the time of the Exodus, and by the paintings of Thebes. They consisted of gold or of beads, of various qualities and shapes, disposed according to fancy and enriched with jewels.