the supposed cause of such variation being atmospheric mutations, and gradations of temperature.
During
the visit of the (then) Prince of Wales to India in 1876, Sir Jung
Bahadur, when presented, was thus described by one who witnessed the
ceremony.
"
No Gnome King, in a gorgeous Pantomime, ever shone, in the midst of
electric, or magnesium light, and blue fire, half so splendidly as the
Nepaulese Minister. His skull-cap, " parsemi" with Pearls, was
surrounded with a triple row of Emeralds, Rubies, and Diamonds,
together with pendants of the same. From his Aigrette, representing the
Sun (which was an enormous Ruby) rose the double-eyed Peacock's
feather. This was again surmounted by a beautiful plume of Bird of
Paradise feathers, curved backwards. His tunic, of purple satin, lined
with the softest and finest fur, was embroidered exquisitely, and set
with rich Pearls. Over his breast he wore the Riband of the Bath, and
Star of India. His sword was Diamond-hilted; the sheath rich with
Jewels."
It
is still true that Eastern peoples venerate, while they delight in, the
mystic phantasies of the mineral world: the hieroglyphic Agate; the
luck-assuring " Cat's-eye ; " the ominous Moonstone ; the unlucky
Tourmaline, and the Carbuncle, each aglow with malignant fire. All the
human affections and passions are believed by them to be under the
influence of Gems ; each Gem again having its tutelary sprites, who
direct its powers, for good, or evil. From the cradle to the grave, in
sickness, or in health, in prosperity, or adversity, the Oriental takes
counsel of a Jewel, or seeks its help ; and no circumstance of his life
is without its precedent of subÂjection to the potent agencies of the
"Precious Stones."
