this
precious stone occasioned to its possessor, or wearer, a multiplicity
of bewildering dreams. When one of the layers consists of the brown
chalcedony known as " Sard," the stone is termed a Sardonyx, which
Sardonyx is supposed to have derived its name from ancient Sardis ; or
from the Greek word " Sarx " —flesh ; because of its colour somewhat
resembling raw flesh. This beautiful stone is marked with layers of
white and rich orange brown.
Concerning the Sardonyx, it was told in the Magick of Kiram, King of Persia, 1686
: " Upon the Onochytes (Sardonyx),"—a stone known to all—" engrave a
Quail; and under its feet a Sea Tench ; and when you are willing not to
be seen, put a little of the concoction under the stone in the hollow
of the ring, and wear the ring ; and no man shall see you, if you do
anything in the house ; no ; not if you should take anything away that
is in the house."
"
For pastime illusion dissolve the eyes of the Quail or of the Sea Tench
with a little water in a glass vessel ior seven dayes ; then add a
little oyl, put a small quantity of this in the candle, or only anoint
a rag, and set light to it among the company ; and they will look upon
themselves like devils on fire, so that every one will run his way."
The
Onyx was further supposed in former times to create strife, to cause
melancholy, and to be a cure for epilepsy. Soaking in sugar, or honey,
followed by treatment with strong sulphuric acid, will bring out black
and white bands in the naturally grey Onyx.
India
has for ages yielded the finest Onyxes. The true Indian stones are
found as pebbles,—associated with Moss-agate, Jasper, and other such
siliceous
