Book digitized by Google fr om the library of Harvard University a nd uploaded to the Internet Archive by user tpb.
xiv, 406 pages : 22 cm
Excerpts fr om histo r y a nd folklo r e trace the unusual beliefs a nd uses of gems since ancient times
Includes bibliographical references
Superstitions a nd their sources -- On the use of precious a nd semi-precious stones as talismans a nd amulets -- On the talismanic use of special stones -- On the use of engraved a nd carved gems as talismans -- On ominous a nd luminous stones -- On crystal balls a nd crystal gazing -- Religious uses of precious stones, pagan, Hebrew, a nd Christian -- On the high-priest's breastplate -- Birth-stones -- Planetary a nd astral influences of precious stones -- On the therapeutic use of precious a nd semi-precious stones