Description
The Indispensable Guide to the Mysteries of Gems and Precious StonesThis foundational study of gemstone lore presents a comprehensive history of precious and semi-precious stones and a survey of their particular properties. Author George Frederick Kunz-America's foremost gemologist, gemstone and collector of the period-reveals a treasure trove of superstitions, symbolisms, and metaphysical properties associated with specific gems through the ages. In addition to explaining the qualities of each special stone, Kunz explores · crystal balls and crystal gazing;· discussions of protective talismans and amulets;· illuminating information about planetary and astral influences; · gems for spiritual and healing use.Kunz shares his genuine passion for the subject, with a deep, academic, and professional understanding of the wide range of source material. Elements of folklore, cultural beliefs, strange characteristics, occult attributes, birthstone designations, and traditional magical and healing properties of gemstones are all thoroughly reviewed. Illustrated with original plates and drawing from a remarkable collection of ancient lapidary tomes, oral traditions, biblical writings, religious stories, legends, archeological findings, this valuable modern classic makes fascinating reading. This is an essential reference for any gem lover or precious stone collector's library.… (more)
Library's review
That lore has been collected in this fascinating volume, which scintillates like the precious stones which it describes. It represents the observations and discoveries during twenty-five years of collecting by Dr. Kunz, one of the world's greatest authorities in the subject.
Here will be found a rarely entertaining and interesting galaxy of anecdotes, research and information upon superstitions and folk lore; the use of precious stones as talismans and amulets; Crystal balls and crystal-gazing; Mysticism; Religious uses; Divinations; Birth-stones; lucky stones; Astral influences of precious stones; and the medicinal use of gems.
Everyone who loves precious stones and whose emotions are stirred by their coloring and brilliancy, will find this work a source of endless satisfaction.
Illustrated with 86 reproductions in color, doubletone and line.
Contents
Chapter I Superstitions and their sources
Chapter II On the use of precious and semi-precious stones as talismans and amulets
Chapter III On the talismanic use of special stones
Chapter IV On the use of engraved and carved gems as talismans
chapter V On ominous and luminous stones
Cahpter VI On crystal balls and crystals gazing
Chapter VII Religious uses of precious stones, pagan, Hebrew, and Christian
Chapter VIIII On the high-priest's breastplate
Chapter IX Birth-stones
Chapteer X Planetary and astral influences of precious stones
Chapter XI On the therapeutic use of precious and semi-precious stones