often
seen in the Bervl. The Emerald is transparent, or translucent, and has
a vitreous, rarely resinous, lustre. On friction it becomes electric.
The Hebrew word nophech (rendered " Emerald" in the English
version of the Scriptures) appears to have been actually the Carbuncle.
In the East, previous to about the middle of the Fifteenth Century, the
Emerald was subjected to cleavage, and was generally worn as a Jewel,
in slices. The finest Emeralds are obtained from Muzo, in Columbia.
Pliny tells that this Stone was highly valued by the ancients. Various
virtues were formerly ascribed to the Gem. It was said to be good for
the eyes, also to colour water green, on which account it was worn as a
seal Ring ; to assist women in child-birth; and to drive away evil
spirits. The Easterns still credit it with Talismanic, and medicinal
properties. This gem has been very successfully imitated by
manufacturers of paste-Stones ; the colouring matter used being oxide
of chromium. What is termed the Oriental Emerald is in reality a green
variety of Corundum,—an exceedingly rare Gem.
Dr.
W. Rowland, 1669, described the Emerald, " Smaragdus," as " a clear
transparent Gem ; very beautiful, and the most brittle of all Gems. It
stops (being drunk) all Fluxes whatsoever, chiefly the Dysentery,
whether they come from a sharp humor, or venome ; and it cures venomous
Bitings. For a Dose^—six, eight, or ten grains are given. Among Amulets
it is chiefly commended against the Epilepsie; it stops bleeding if
held in the mouth ; it cures all bleedings, and dysenteries ; it expels
fears, and the Tertian Ague, if hung about the neck. There is a '
Prepared Smaragd ; and a Tincture of Smaragd.' " Messrs. Lemery and
