Diamonds
; but immediately after, it reverted to its old place as a brooch. King
Edward's companion Coronation Jewel, the wonderful Black Prince Ruby,
has a history. It was presented to the Black Prince by Don Pedro ; was
lost on the French field of battle ; and, when found, had the bad
fortune to be delivered into the hands of the rough Court Jewellers of
those times, who felt so little respect for such marvellous gems that
they actually drilled three holes through the Ruby, to hold the
Prince's feathers. The two Queens of Italy have a fondness for wearing
Pearls, both black and white ; their collection of these Jewels being
the finest in the world.
" Dumb Jewels often in their silent kind, More than quick words, do move a woman's mind." Two Gentlemen of Verona.
Ancient faiths held that planetary influences (such
as we now consider magnetic, and electric) radiate into
space, and become focussed by their responding Precious
Stones ; to some one of which each month of the year
is specially dedicated : and a belief follows that persons
wearing a stone to which the particular month in
which his, or her birthday occurs, stands dedicated,
will be thus rendered subject to the planetary influences
(good, or bad) by which such month is regulated in its
course. Thus the creed, now revived, of suitable
Birthday Stones, selected in accordance with this
doctrine, is amply justified.
LTJCKY BIRTH STONES.
A TIME-HONOURED EHYME.
" By her in January born
No gem save Garnets should be worn ; They will ensure her constancy, True friendship, and fidelity.
