garnets.
As all these stones in ancient times were cut in the round shape, the
name has come down to us as carbuncle, and its association with the
garnet has always been preserved. However, scientifically carbuncle
refers merely to the shape of the stone, and not at all to its
composition or mineralogical variety.
The
garnet is one of the oldest stones known. In some of the most ancient
mummies disÂcovered in Egypt are found necklaces and other jewels
containing garnets. And under the name carbuncle the garnet is
mentioned in the literature of all ages, being valued chiefly for the
brilliant fiery light which it gives forth. According to the Talmud,
the only light which Noah had in the Ark was afforded by a carÂbuncle.
