THE OPAL.
“What radiant changes strike the astonished sight!
What glowing hues of mingled shade and light!”
Falconer.
About This Book
The work provides an accessible survey of precious stones, combining mineralogical explanation with cultural and artistic commentary. It describes chemical composition, crystalline forms, optical effects, and relative hardness, and examines color varieties, rarity, and methods of appreciation. Gems are situated within historical beliefs and decorative arts, with engraved stones shown to preserve images from antiquity, while trade, valuation, and collecting are considered. Technical observations are balanced with aesthetic reflection, and each chapter focuses on a different gem to illustrate scientific facts, historical lore, and practical considerations for collectors and connoisseurs.