readily
affected by strong light. Experiments have been made on two such
stones, of equally intense colouring, the one being exposed to
continuous light during the daytime, whilst the other remained shut up
within an hermetically sealed box. Of the two, that which was kept in
the light wTas found to have lost an evident amount of
colouring after a few years, when compared with the other specimen, it
being in this way deprived of some of its value. Nevertheless Rubies,
as well as Sapphires, and Emeralds, are less prone to discoloration
than many other stones ; and are less susceptible to sudden changes of
temperature, or extremes of heat, and cold.
The
Diamond, when worn of old, was believed to make a man " rather fearless
than careful." A jacinth had the reputation of being able to strengthen
the heart; and was often worn close to that organ, fashioned into the
form of some animal, or saint. The Sapphire was supposed to possess a
divine gift of sharpening the intellect; and was also worn as a
preventive against the bites of venomous animals. The Emerald was worn
in a ring to prevent giddiness, and strengthen the memory. Garcius
adds, " it takes away foolish fears of devils, and hobgoblins, folly,
and anger." Great faith wyas placed in the Ruby as an amulet
to ward off plagues, and pestilences. Cardamus says, " it has the power
of making the wearer cheerful, whilst banishing idle, and foolish
thoughts." The Amethyst was supposed to promote temperance, and
sobriety, to cause the wearer to abstain from strong drinks, and from
taking too much sleep. By other writers this stone is said also to
quicken the wit, and repel vapours from the head. The Chrysolite was
