CHAP. 29.—LYCHNIS: FOUR VARIETIES OF IT.
To the same class of flame-coloured stones belongs that known as “lychnis;”3100 so called from its lustre being heightd by the light of the lamp, under which circumstances its tints are particularly pleasing. It is found in the vicinity of Orthosia, throughout the whole of Caria, and in the neighbouring localities; but the most approved stones are those that come from India. Some writers have given the name of “deadened”3101 carbunculus to a lychnis of second-rate quality, and similar in colour to the flower known as the “flower of Jove.”3102 I find other varieties also mentioned, one with a purple radiance, and another of a scarlet3103 tint. It is asserted, too, that these stones, when heated or rubbed between the fingers, will attract3104 chaff and filaments of paper.