Europe in the Middle Ages. 47
by enormous emeralds, the vinegar by sparkling rubies, the oil by yellow topazes, and the salt by Pearls.
Notwithstanding
the dire consequences of the Thirty Years' war, immense sums were
expended during the 17th century upon ornaments and luxury of all
kinds. Knightly orders, sword and hat knots, rings, shoe buckles,
waistcoat buttons— all glittered with gems. The stomacher and the
enormous collar and ruff, both richly trimmed with Pearls and jewels,
were also introduced about this time. In the 18th century precious
stones were less lavishly employed, especially after the French
Revolution, and dress in general came to be characterized by greater
simplicity.
