The Curious Lore of Precious Stones / Being a description of their sentiments and folk lore, superstitions, symbolism, mysticism, use in medicine, protection, prevention, religion, and divination. Crystal gazing, birth-stones, lucky stones and talismans, astral, zodiacal, and planetary

The volume surveys beliefs, uses, and symbolic meanings attached to gemstones across cultures, combining descriptions of individual stones with accounts of their alleged medicinal, protective, divinatory, and astrological functions. It traces folklore and superstition surrounding birth-stones, talismans, crystal gazing, and planetary attributions, and discusses how color, durability, and perceived properties shaped their cultural roles. Illustrated entries and historical references document collections, ritual applications, and evolving interpretations, while the author compiles sources and examples to explain why gems acquired enduring symbolic and practical significance.