Sec. III, Ch. 4: The Saffire

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	CHAPTER IV.

	ΓΗΕ SAPPHIRE.

	EAUTIFUL as this gem unquestionably is, it probably derives no little enhancement of interest from the exalted character of the comparison with which it is associated in the Sacred Volume. · The Prophet of the great captivity compares "the appearance of the likeness of a throne" in the firmament above the cherubim to a " Sapphire Stone ;" and generally it may be affirmed that around no Precious Stone can be grouped more imposing allegories and properties than have been associated with the Sapphire. Up to quite modern times the Sapphire was regarded as a charm or a medicine, and very extraordinary powers were attributed to it. It was dedicated by the Greeks to Apollo, because, when consulting his oracle, they thought that the possession of this gem, from its heavenly nature, would secure them an early and favourable answer. Among ancient writers, Solinus refers to several characteristics of our Sapphire, especially its blue colour and its extreme hardness. The Sapphire is, in fact, only a variety of Corundum, or crystallized alumina ; and much, therefore, that was said under the head of Ruby, will apply to the Sapphire. The characteristic colour of the Sapphire is a clear blue, like that of the " corn-flower," and the more velvety its appearance, the greater its value. Some Sapphires retain their colour by gas light, while others become dark, and

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