the
mineral corundum. Dr. Bauer then named spinel, and its varieties
chrysoberyl and cymo-phane, before reaching the noble emerald.
Exceptions
may be taken to the order in which semi-precious stones are named by
the author by those whose individual experiences in trade have
differed; but it is believed that the five precious stones, and the
order in which they are named, represent the understanding of American
gem dealers and well-informed purchasers, and that the classification
of the semiprecious stones fairly represents their general popularity.
Here
it may be said, in connection with the influence the value of gems has
in their classification, that the price of any kind of precious stone,
or of individual specimens, while depending chiefly upon beauty,
durability, and similar characteristics, is governed also by extrinsic
considerations such as the law of supply and demand and many other
things, including fashions, fads, and fancies. A common question
propounded to stone merchants is, What is the price of diamonds,
sapphires, rubies, or other gems? as though each kind of stone had a
common price in the market, like October wheat or steel billets. Each
gem stands strictly upon its
