"
The deep velvety hue of the Sapphire, the glowing brilliant red of the
Ruby, the still clear green of the Emerald, and the delicate strata of
the Onyx, alike, only display themselves in their true character after
the lapidary has expended his skill in cutting them into facets, and
polishing them ; on the perfection of which operations depend in a
great measure the physical beauty of the Gems." " Many pure, and
perfect Jewels have been irretrievably spoilt-by unskilful hands."
Precious stones come under the name of " Gems " when cut, and polished by the Lapidary. Marbodus has said (1740) :—
" Gemmis a Gummi nomen posuere priores,
Quod transplenderent Gummi splendentis ad instar."
" Jewels of old were Gems—thus named from Gums, Which shine transplendent: so do precious Stones."
In an old Poem; translated 1750 :—flowers are given the preference:—
"
Quid cupis Gemmas ? quid avarus, et spe Fessus ? insana nimis alto
quseris ? —Carpe contentus facili rubentes Tramite flores."
" If Gems we seek, we only tire, And lift our hopes too high ; —The constant Flowers that line our way-Alone can satisfy."
True
it is that thus hath moralized a former Philosopher, sad of spirit!
But none the less hopefully, and interestedly we turn our present best
attention to the comprehensive, and promising subjects of " Precious
Stones," and " The Nobler Metals."
A
certain belief, which is more or less superstitious, and which hails
from Poland, is of late gaining credit in this country, even amongst
educated, and sensible
