EPIDOTE. This stone is named from the Greek EPIDOSIS, increase. It was
first used by Hauy (“Mineralogie,” 1801), as “lit qui a recu un
accroissement,” but—writes Dr. Smith—“not on very precise
crystallographical grounds.” There are several varieties, chief among
which is the Pistacite, or true Epidote, of a yellow-green colour like
the nut of the Pistachio. The epidote is nearly as hard as the garnet.
According to ancient philosophy it may be used as a charm for fruit and
cereal growers. The epidote is under the celestial Taurus.
ESSONITE. From the Greek ESSON; also, known as Hessonite and more
familiarly amongst jewellers as Cinnamon Stone. It is a garnet of the
Lime Alumina order, of a reddish brown or cinnamon colour, and granular
structure. This stone is often confounded with the Hyacinth and other
varieties of the Zircon with which it is found. It is regarded amongst
ancient philosophers as a protective talisman for virgins born between
August 24th and September 23rd. The Essonite is a gem under the
celestial Virgo.
EUCLASE. The name is derived from the Greek EU KLASIS, easily fractured.
It is a silicate of aluminium and beryllium and is related to the
emerald. Westropp says: “The euclase is of the same chemical composition
as the emerald.” (“Manual of Precious Stones.”) It is a very rare and
expensive mineral, glassy and extremely brittle. The euclase closely
resembles the aquamarine in its varying shades of pale blue and pale
green. Sometimes it is found quite colourless. It is frequently found
with topaz, and is of the hardness of the beryl. As a love talisman it
is advised that it be worn in the rough. The euclase is under the
celestial Taurus.
FLINT
“_So stubborn flints their inward heart conceal
Till art and force th’ unwilling sparks reveal._”
CONGREVE TO DRYDEN.
Public-domain text, read in full here on John Shaqi.
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