Among Granites, the Hyacinth (Jacinth ; or Zircon) occurs as a Gem, which is sometimes used e\ren
in modern jewelry. It varies in colour from red to yellow, brown,
green, grey, and white. In chemical composition it consists chiefly of
Zircon (66 per cent), with silica (33 per cent), and a trace of
iron-peroxide. When the Hyacinth is of a smoky-white colour it is
called a Jargoon. In the eighteenth century this stone was supposed to
be an inferior diamond. The word " Zircon " is from the Arabic, "
Zerk." What medicinal properties Zircon can exercise—external, or
internal— has not yet been ascertained. A doubt exists as to whether or
not this stone was the true Zircon of the ancients. By some it is
thought to be the Lyncurion of Theophrastus ; whilst the Hyacinth
described by Pliny would appear to be the Amethyst, or the Sapphire,
(having associated with it the blue " Fleur de Lys "). Anyhow, the
Hyacinth was reputed in the Middle Ages to procure riches, honour,
wisdom, and sleep. Furthermore, it would dispel evil spirits from the
wearer. The roots of an allied Herb, likewise named " Jacinth," were
used, 1696, " for the consolidation of green wounds." It was the " Hyacinthus vaccinium: or Lilium purpureum, "effectually
helping the bloody flux and other Lasks." " Those persons," as M. Pomet
directed, 1712, " who would have the Jacinth-stone for the confection
that bears its name, must use no other than the milky Hyacinthus, being
the true Oriental, and fit for medicinal use, it requiring no other
preparation than to be ground toan impalpable powder."
The
Hyacinth (Jacinth) of the Garnet family " strengthens the heart; is
specifick against the Crampe, and Convulsion ; it is counted, hung
about the neck, for
