Chapter III: Ephod with Breastplate Folded and Attached (2)

The sardius with its tawny and translucent coloring suggests fire, and it possesses the virtue of healing tumors and wounds inflicted by iron; hence I consider that it designates the beauty of virtue characterizing the apostle Philip, for his virtue, animated by the fire of the Holy Spirit, cured the soul of the wounds inflicted by the wiles of the devil, and revived it.

The chrysolite, gleaming with the splendor of gold, may symbolize Bartholomew, since he was illustrious for his divine preaching and his store of virtues.

The beryl, imitating the colors of the sea and of the air, and not unlike the jacinth, seems to suggest the admirable Thomas, especially as he made a long journey by sea, and even reached the Indies, sent by God to preach salvation to the peoples of that region.

The topaz, which is of a ruddy color, resembling somewhat the carbuncle, stops the discharge of the milky fluid with which those having eye-disease suffer. This seems to denote Matthew, for he was animated by a divine zeal, and, his blood being fired because of Christ, he was found worthy to enlighten by his Gospel those whose heart was blinded, that they might like new-born children drink of the milk of the faith.

The chrysoprase, more brightly tinged with a golden hue than gold itself, symbolizes St. Thaddæus; the gold (_chrysos_) symbolizing the kingdom of Christ, and the _prassius_, Christ’s death, both of which he preached to Abgar, King of Edessa.

The jacinth, which is of a celestial hue, signifies Simon Zelotes, zealous for the gifts and grace of Christ and endowed with a celestial prudence.

By the amethyst, which shows to the onlooker a fiery aspect, is signified Matthias, who in the gift of tongues was so filled with celestial fire and with fervent zeal to serve and please God, who had chosen him, that he was found worthy to take the place of the apostate Judas.

Some theologians were opposed to the assignment of the foundation stones to the apostles, for they held that only Christ himself could be regarded as the foundation of his Church. Hence the symbolism of these stones was made to apply to Christ alone, the color of the stone often guiding the commentator in his choice of ideas denoted by the different gems. Thus, one writer, applying all the meanings to Christ, finds that the greenish Jasper denotes satisfaction; the sky-blue Sapphire, the soul; the bright-red Chalcedony, zeal for truth; the transparent green Emerald, kindness and goodness; the nail-colored Sardonyx, the strength of spiritual life; the red Sardius, readiness to shed His blood for the Church; the yellow Chrysolite, the excellence of His divine nature; the sea-green Beryl, moderation and the control of the passions; the glass-green Topaz (chrysolite?), uprightness; the harsh-colored Chrysoprase, sternness towards sinners; the violet or purple Jacinth, royal dignity, and, lastly, the purple Amethyst, with a touch of red, perfection.[432]

Andreas of Cæsarea freely recognizes his indebtedness to the much more ancient source, St. Epiphanius, bishop of Constantia in Cyprus, who died in 402 A.D., and who wrote a short but very valuable treatise on the stones of the breastplate, noting in several cases the therapeutic and talismanic virtues of these stones and giving his opinion as to the order in which the names of the tribes were inscribed upon them.[433] As the foundation stones of Revelation are rightly called “apostolic stones,” so those of the breastplate merit the designation of “tribal stones,” as well as that of astral stones; indeed, the Jews of medieval times definitely associated the tribes with the zodiacal signs in the following order:

Judah Aries
Issachar Taurus
Zebulun Gemini
Reuben Cancer
Simeon Leo
Gad Virgo
Ephraim Libra
Manasseh Scorpio
Benjamin Sagittarius
Dan Capricorn
Naphtali Aquarius
Asher Pisces

For Rabanus Maurus the nine gems of the king of Tyre named in Ezekiel xxxviii, 13, are types of the nine orders of angels, just as the twelve foundation stones of Revelation signify the twelve apostles.[434]

It is evident, from early and later usage, that, at the place and time where and when these stones were first utilized for birth-stones, the year must have begun with the month of March. This will be apparent when we compare the following eight lists, carefully gathered from various sources:

Isidore
Bishop of
Month Jews Romans Seville Arabians

January Garnet Garnet Hyacinth Garnet

February Amethyst Amethyst Amethyst Amethyst

March Jasper Bloodstone Jasper Bloodstone

April Sapphire Sapphire Sapphire Sapphire

May Chalcedony Agate Agate Emerald
Carnelian
Agate

June Emerald Emerald Emerald Agate
Chalcedony
Pearl

July Onyx Onyx Onyx Carnelian

August Carnelian Carnelian Carnelian Sardonyx

September Chrysolite Sardonyx Chrysolite Chrysolite

October Aquamarine Aquamarine Aquamarine Aquamarine

November Topaz Topaz Topaz Topaz

December Ruby Ruby Ruby Ruby

———————————-Table split————————————

15th to 20th
Poles Russians Italians Century

January Garnet Garnet Jacinth Garnet
Hyacinth Garnet

February Amethyst Amethyst Amethyst Amethyst
Hyacinth
Pearl

March Bloodstone Jasper Jasper Jasper
Bloodstone

April Diamond Sapphire Sapphire Diamond
Sapphire

May Emerald Emerald Agate Emerald
Agate

June Agate Agate Emerald Cat’s-eye
Chalcedony Chalcedony Turquoise
Agate

July Ruby Ruby Onyx Turquoise
Sardonyx Onyx

August Sardonyx Alexandrite Carnelian Sardonyx
Carnelian
Moonstone
Topaz

September Sardonyx Chrysolite Chrysolite Chrysolite

October Aquamarine Beryl Beryl Beryl
Opal

November Topaz Topaz Topaz Topaz
Pearl

December Turquoise Turquoise Ruby Ruby
Chrysoprase Bloodstone

It may be interesting to show in these eight lists the stones which are most favored in each month in the following way, the numerals indicating the number of lists in which the stones appear (including the alternate stones):

January Garnet 7, hyacinth 2.
February Amethyst 8, hyacinth 1, pearl 1.
March Jasper 5, bloodstone 4.
April Sapphire 7, diamond 2.
May Agate 5, emerald 4, chalcedony 1, carnelian 1.
June Emerald 4, agate 4, chalcedony 3, turquoise 1, pearl 1,
cat’s-eye 1.
July Onyx 5, sardonyx 1, carnelian 1, ruby 1, turquoise 1.
August Carnelian 5, sardonyx 3, moonstone 1, topaz 1, alexandrite 1.
September Chrysolite 6, sardonyx 2.
October Beryl, 8, aquamarine 5, opal 1.
November Topaz 8, pearl 1.
December Ruby 6, turquoise 2, chrysoprase 1, bloodstone 1.

With the exception of January, where we have the garnet instead of the jacinth, and of December, which gives us the ruby instead of the chrysoprase, the first choices are practically identical with the foundation stones, bearing in mind that the eleventh stone is that for January, the twelfth that for February, the first that for March and so on.

Of the assignment of the natal stones to the different months of the year or to the zodiacal signs, Poujet fils, writing in 1762, states that in his opinion this fashion started in Germany—others say in Poland—some two centuries before his time, and he adds that, though this arrangement was purely imaginary, and unknown to ancient writers, it soon became popular, and many, more especially of the fair sex, seeing in it an element of mystery, wished to wear rings set with the stone appropriate to the month of their birth, the stone being engraved with the appropriate zodiacal sign.[435] However correct Poujet may be regarding the period at which the fashion of wearing natal rings was introduced, he is, as we have already shown, quite wrong in believing that the serial arrangement of the stones and their assignment to months or signs was purely imaginary, for it is unquestionably based on the list in Revelation, which in its turn goes back to the twelve stones of the high-priest’s breastplate.

The original ring, which is of chalcedony, is shown on St. Agatha’s Day, July 29, to cure ailments of mothers. This cord and facsimile of ring acquired by the author at Perugia, May 6, 1902.]

The fashion of wearing a series of twelve stones denoting (or bearing) the zodiacal signs seems to have existed in the sixteenth century, for Catherine de’ Medici is said to have worn a girdle set with twelve stones, among which were certain onyxes as large as crownpieces, upon which talismanic designs had been engraved. Two hundred years later this girdle is stated to have been in the possession of a M. d’Ennery, whose collection of antique medals was regarded as the finest in Paris at the time.[436] It is not, however, certain that the twelve stones of Catherine’s girdle were those attributed to the zodiacal signs both at an earlier and later period.

Though the substitution of a new schedule for the time-honored list of birth-stones has received the approval of the National Association of Jewellers at the meeting in Kansas City August, 1912, it can scarcely be said to offer a satisfactory solution of the question, which has its importance not only from a commercial point of view, but also because the idea that birth-stones possess a certain indefinable, but none the less real significance, has long been present and still exercises a spell over the minds of all who are gifted with a touch of imagination, or romance, if you will. The longing for something that appeals to this sense is much more general than is commonly supposed, and is a not unnatural reaction against the progress of materialism, against the assertion that there is nothing in heaven or earth but what we can definitely apprehend through our senses.

It is this persuasion that should be chiefly considered in any attempt to tamper with the traditional attribution of the stones to particular months or to the zodiacal signs. Once we allow the spirit of commercialism pure and simple to dictate the choice of such stones, according to the momentary interest of dealers, there is grave danger that the only true incentive to acquire birth-stones will be weakened and people will lose interest in them. Sentiment, true sentiment, is one of the best things in human nature. While if darkened by fear it may lead to pessimism, with all the evils which such a state of mind implies, if illumined by hope it gives to humanity a brighter forecast of the future, an optimism that helps people over difficult passages in their lives. Thus, sentiment must not be neglected, and nothing is more likely to destroy it than the conviction that it is being constantly exploited for purposes of commercialism. For this reason, the interest as well as the inclination of all who are concerned in this question of birth-stones should induce a very careful handling of the subject.

Quite true it is that there are now, and have been in the past, several lists of these stones, differing slightly from one another, but all are based essentially either upon the list of foundation stones given in Revelation (xxi, 19) or upon that of the gems adorning the breastplate of Aaron and enumerated in Exodus (xxxix, 10-13). For convenient reference, we give the latter according to the Authorized Version of the Scriptures, and also as corrected by later research, and the former according to the Authorized Version.

Breastplate. Foundation Stones.
Authorized Version. Later Correction. Authorized Version.

I Sardius Carnelian Jasper
II Topaz Chrysolite Sapphire
(peridot)
III Carbuncle Emerald Chalcedony
IV Emerald Ruby Emerald
V Sapphire Lapis-lazuli Sardonyx
VI Diamond Onyx Sardius
VII Ligure Sapphire Chrysolite
VIII Agate Agate Beryl
IX Amethyst Amethyst Topaz
X Beryl Topaz Chrysoprasus
XI Onyx Beryl Jacinth
XII Jasper Jasper Amethyst

While the arrangement differs in Revelation, the stones are nearly identical. For chalcedonius, we should probably read _carchedonius_, a name of the ruby; sardonyx is the onyx of Exodus; the jacinth (sapphire) is probably the “ligure”; the sapphire was the lapis-lazuli, and sardius is equivalent to carnelian. There thus remains only the chrysoprase, which for some reason has substituted the agate. In the eventual association of the foundation stones with the months, the first, the jasper, was assigned to March, with which month the year was reckoned to begin.

The list suggested and adopted in Kansas City reads as follows:

Month. Birth-stone. Alternate Stone.

January Garnet
February Amethyst
March Bloodstone Aquamarine
April Diamond
May Emerald
June Pearl Moonstone
July Ruby
August Sardonyx Peridot
September Sapphire
October Opal Tourmaline
November Topaz
December Turquoise Lapis-lazuli

Among the many changes in this list from that habitually followed, it will be noted that the ruby is transferred from December to July, changing places with the turquoise, which became the gem of December. This has been favored on the ground that the warmer-colored gem was best adapted for a July birth-stone, while the paler turquoise was best suited to a winter month, when the sun’s rays are feeble. The contrary, however, is true; for it is in winter that we seek for warmth, while in the heat of summer nothing is more grateful than coolness. This transposition is, in effect, simply a return to the ordering of these stones in the Polish list, which may perhaps have become popular in Europe in the eighteenth century through Marie Leczinska, the queen of Louis XV. Another undesirable change takes the chrysolite (peridot) from the place it has always occupied as the gem of September, and makes of it an alternate for August, with the sardonyx, while the sapphire, properly the gem for April, is made the birth-stone for September. For October neither the tourmaline nor the opal is as appropriate as the beryl, while for June we should prefer the asteria to the moonstone as a substitute for the pearl.

This suggested radical change or violation cannot be permitted. The time-honored ordering is familiar now to all who are interested in the matter, and any change, even if one apparently for the better, is liable to disturb the popular confidence in those who are supposed to be familiar with the subject. Above all, there should be no duplication or triplication of birth-stones for any given month, the choice between a birth-stone or an astral or zodiacal stone or the combination of these affording all the variety that is necessary or should be desired.

As the diamond does not appear to have been known to the ancients and is not given in any of the lists of birth-stones before the last century, and as diamonds, like gold and platinum, may easily be used as accessories to other stones, would it not perhaps be better to omit the diamond from the list of the stones of the months, and rather use these gems as a bordering or other ornate addition to the stone of the month? The pearl, which is not a stone in any sense of the word, should not appear in the list at all; but it can be worn in some device suggesting a sentiment, as, for instance, an emblem of purity, etc.

The tourmaline, as a gem only known in modern times or since the eighteenth century, seems out of place in the list of birth-stones, which ought only to comprise precious or semi-precious stones which have been known and worn from ancient times.

“Astral stones” or “zodiacal stones” are terms used to designate those gems which were believed to be peculiarly and mystically related to the zodiacal signs. While these signs constitute a twelve-fold division of the year just as do the months, they do not exactly coincide with the latter as now reckoned, but overlap them, so that the sign Aquarius, for instance, covers the period from January 21 to February 20, that of Pisces from February 21 to March 20, that of Aries, the spring sign, from March 21 to April 20, and so on down to Capricornus, which begins at the winter solstice. Thus, every necessary opportunity is afforded for enlarging the selection of natal stones while preserving the traditional order of those appropriate to the months, an order which in its origin dates back to the early Christian centuries and which, from the close relation with the sacred gems of the Scriptures, it seems almost sacrilegious to violate by arbitrary changes.

Referred to the nativity of Augustus and to a comet which appeared shortly after the assassination of Julius Cæsar. From De Mairan’s “Lettres au R. P. Parrenin,” Paris, 1770, opp. p. 274.]

Then, in addition, we have the “talismanic gems,” or the stones of the twelve guardian angels, one set over all those born in each month. Here we have another time-honored list, differing from either of those mentioned above, so that, in almost if not quite every case, each person has the choice between three different stones as “birth-stones,” or can have them combined in an artistic jewel so as to profit by all the favorable influences promised by the old authorities Thus, there is absolutely no excuse for playing fast and loose with an ancient, popular, and quasi-religious belief in the special virtue of _one particular stone_ for each month, and that one the gem long prescribed by usage

As it might seem appropriate that one born in the United States should wear a gem from among those which our country furnishes, the following list was some time since prepared by the writer, not in any sense as a substitute for the real birth-stones, but as possible accessory gems (when they were not identical), gems which might be worn from a spirit of patriotism Of course where the stone in question is really that traditionally recommended, the fact that it is at the same time an American gem-stone is an added argument in its favor

Month. Stones. Where found.

January Garnet, rhodolite Montana, New Mexico, Arizona,
North Carolina
February Amethyst North Carolina, Georgia, Virginia
March Californite California
April Sapphire Montana, Idaho
May Green tourmaline Lake Superior
June Moss-agate California, Montana, Wyoming, Arizona
July Turquoise New Mexico, California, Arizona
August Golden beryl California, Connecticut,
North Carolina
September Kunzite California
October Aquamarine North Carolina, Maine, California
November Topaz Utah, California, Maine
December Rubellite Montana

The year is divided into four seasons or cycles,—spring, summer, fall, and winter,—and each season has its particular gem The emerald is the gem of the spring, the ruby the gem of summer, the sapphire the gem of autumn, and the diamond the gem of winter

For spring, no precious stone is more appropriate than the emerald. Its beautiful color is that of Nature, for Nature clothes herself with green when she awakens from her long rest of winter. Having decked herself with green of the various tints and colors, she has selected a background by which a contrast is made for the flowers that come in the spring and summer and ripen into fruit and seeds of autumn. To be a seasonable gem it must be rare, and the emerald is rare. Whether found in the mines of Bogotá, whether mined in ancient times at Zabarah in Egypt, or in the past century in the Ural Mountains, it has never been found in abundance. It is softer in color than the ruby and less hard in structure.

The ruby, although as a natal stone it belongs to December, is the gem of summer. It is born in the hot climates,—the pigeon’s-blood ruby in Burma, the pomegranate-red in Ceylon, and the more garnet-hued type in Siam,—these three equatorial countries produce the ruby. Those of large size are always rare, and this is the gem which Job valued more highly than any other, although “garnet” may perhaps be a better rendering. It is on an equal plane in hardness, in composition, in crystalline structure, and in every way, with the sapphire. These are sister gems, structurally alike, yet varying in complexion, due to a slight difference which some scientists think is not even dependent upon the coloring matter.

The sapphire—the gem of autumn, the blue of the autumn sky—is a symbol of truth, sincerity, and constancy. Less vivid than its sister gem, the ruby, it typifies calm and tried affection, not ardent passion; it is therefore appropriate to the autumn season, when the declining sun no longer sends forth the fiery rays of summer but shines with a tempered brilliancy.

The diamond, the gem of winter, typifying the sun, is the gem of light. Its color is that of ice, and as the dewdrop or the drop of water from a mountain stream sparkles in the light of the sun, as the icicle sparkles in winter, and the stars on a cold winter night, so the diamond sparkles, and it combines and contrasts with all known gems. Like light, it illumines them just as the sun does the plants of the earth. The diamond, the gem of light, like light itself when broken into a spectrum, gives us all known colors, and by combining all these colors it gives us white. Like gold, the diamond was made rare, so that it must be searched for, and the mines and deposits contain less of these two substances in a given area than of any other known materials. It is thirty to a hundred times more rare than gold, for if gold occurs one part in 250,000, it can scarcely be worked with profit, while the diamond can be worked to advantage when found only one part in 10,000,000,—yes, even one part in 25,000,000—and, like gold, it sometimes spurs the searcher on to wealth or to ruin. As great nuggets of gold have occasionally been found, so has a diamond been discovered large enough to make the greatest ruler pause to pay its price, and one which it took an entire country to give to that ruler who sways his sceptre over countries in which the world’s greatest diamonds have been found.

When the God of the Mines called his courtiers to bring him all known gems, he found them to be of all colors and tints, and of varying hardnesses, such as the ruby, emerald, sapphire, etc., etc. He took one of each; he crushed them; he compounded them, and said: “Let this be something that will combine the beauty of all; yet it must be pure, and it must be invincible.” He spoke: and lo! the diamond was born, pure as the dewdrop and invincible in hardness; but when its ray is resolved in the spectrum, it displays all the colors of the gems from which it was made. “Mine,” said the god, “must be the gem of the universe; for my queen I will create one that shall be the greatest gem of the sea,” and for her he created the pearl.

Gems of Spring Gems of Summer

Amethyst Zircon
Green diamond Garnet (demantoid and ouvarite)
Chrysoberyl Chrysoberyl (alexandrite)
Spinel (rubicelle) Spinel
Pink topaz Pink topaz
Olivine (peridot) Ruby
Emerald Fire opal

Gems of Autumn Gems of Winter

Hyacinth Diamond
Topaz Rock-crystal
Sapphire White sapphire
Jacinth Turquoise
Cairngorm Quartz
Adamantine spar Moonstone
Tourmaline Pearl
Oriental chrysolite Labradorite

SENTIMENTS OF THE MONTHS

JANUARY

_Natal stone_ Garnet.
_Guardian angel_ Gabriel.
_His talismanic gem_ Onyx.
_Special apostle_ Simon Peter.
_His gem_ Jasper.
_Zodiacal sign_ Aquarius.
_Flower_ Snowdrop.

No gems save garnets should be worn
By her who in this month is born;
They will insure her constancy,
True friendship and fidelity.

The gleaming garnet holds within its sway
Faith, constancy, and truth to one alway.

FEBRUARY

_Natal stone_ Amethyst.
_Guardian angel_ Barchiel.
_His talismanic gem_ Jasper.
_Special apostle_ Andrew.
_His gem_ Carbuncle.
_Zodiacal sign_ Pisces.
_Flower_ Primrose.

The February-born may find
Sincerity and peace of mind,
Freedom from passion and from care,
If she an amethyst will wear.

Let her an amethyst but cherish well,
And strife and care can never with her dwell.

MARCH

_Natal stone_ Jasper, bloodstone.
_Guardian Angel_ Malchediel.
_His talismanic gem_ Ruby.
_Special apostles_ James and John.
_Their gem_ Emerald.
_Zodiacal sign_ Aries.
_Flower_ Ipomœa, violet.

Who on this world of ours her eyes
In March first opens may be wise,
In days of peril firm and brave,
Wears she a bloodstone to her grave.

Who wears a jasper, be life short or long,
Will meet all dangers brave and wise and strong.

APRIL

_Natal stone_ Diamond, sapphire.
_Guardian angel_ Ashmodei.
_His talismanic gem_ Topaz.
_Special apostle_ Philip.
_His gem_ Carnelian.
_Zodiacal sign_ Taurus.
_Flower_ Daisy.

She who from April dates her years
Diamonds should wear, lest bitter tears
For vain repentance flow This stone
Emblem of innocence is known.

Innocence, repentance—sun and shower—
The diamond or the sapphire is her dower.

MAY

_Natal stone_ Emerald.
_Guardian angel_ Amriel.
_His talismanic gem_ Carbuncle.
_Special apostle_ Bartholomew.
_His gem_ Chrysolite.
_Zodiacal sign_ Gemini.
_Flower_ Hawthorn.

Who first beholds the light of day
In spring’s sweet flow’ry month of May,
And wears an emerald all her life,
Shall be a loved and happy wife.

No happier wife and mother in the land
Than she with emerald shining on her hand.

JUNE

_Natal stone_ Agate.
_Guardian angel_ Muriel.
_His talismanic gem_ Emerald.
_Special apostle_ Thomas.
_His gem_ Beryl.
_Zodiacal sign_ Cancer.
_Flower_ Honeysuckle.

Who comes with summer to this earth,
And owes to June her hour of birth,
With ring of agate on her hand
Can health, long life, and wealth command.

Thro’ the moss-agate’s charm, the happy years
Ne’er see June’s golden sunshine turn to tears.

JULY

_Natal stone_ Turquoise.
_Guardian angel_ Verchiel.
_His talismanic gem_ Sapphire.
_Special apostle_ Matthew.
_His gem_ Topaz.
_Zodiacal sign_ Leo.
_Flower_ Water-lily.

The heav’n-blue turquoise should adorn
All those who in July are born;
For those they’ll be exempt and free
From love’s doubts and anxiety.

No other gem than turquoise on her breast
Can to the loving, doubting heart bring rest.

AUGUST

_Natal stone_ Carnelian.
_Guardian angel_ Hamatiel.
_His talismanic gem_ Diamond.
_Special apostle_ James, the son of Alpheus.
_His gem_ Sardonyx.
_Zodiacal sign_ Virgo.
_Flower_ Poppy.

Wear a carnelian or for thee
No conjugal felicity;
The August-born without this stone,
’Tis said, must live unloved, alone.

She, loving once and always, wears, if wise,
Carnelian—and her home is paradise.

SEPTEMBER

_Natal stone_ Chrysolite.
_Guardian angel_ Tsuriel.
_His talismanic gem_ Jacinth.
_Special apostle_ Lebbeus Thaddeus.
_His gem_ Chrysoprase.
_Zodiacal sign_ Libra.
_Flower_ Morning-glory.

A maid born when September leaves
Are rustling in the autumn breeze,
A chrysolite on brow should bind—
’Twill cure diseases of the mind.

If chrysolite upon her brow is laid,
Follies and dark delusions flee afraid.

OCTOBER

_Natal stone_ Beryl.
_Guardian angel_ Bariel.
_His talismanic gem_ Agate.
_Special apostle_ Simon. (Zelotes.)
_His gem_ Jacinth.
_Zodiacal sign_ Scorpio.
_Flower_ Hops.

October’s child is born for woe,
And life’s vicissitudes must know;
But lay a beryl on her breast,
And Hope will lull those woes to rest.

When fair October to her brings the beryl,
No longer need she fear misfortune’s peril.

NOVEMBER

_Natal stone_ Topaz.
_Guardian angel_ Adnachiel.
_His talismanic gem_ Amethyst.
_Special apostle_ Matthias.
_His gem_ Amethyst.
_Zodiacal sign_ Sagittarius.
_Flower_ Chrysanthemum.

Who first comes to this world below
With drear November’s fog and snow
Should prize the topaz’s amber hue—
Emblem of friends and lovers true.

Firm friendship is November’s, and she bears
True love beneath the topaz that she wears.

DECEMBER

_Natal stone_ Ruby.
_Guardian angel_ Humiel.
_His talismanic gem_ Beryl.
_Special apostle_ Paul.
_His gem_ Sapphire.
_Zodiacal sign_ Capricornus.
_Flower_ Holly.

If cold December give you birth—
The month of snow and ice and mirth—
Place on your hand a ruby true;
Success will bless whate’er you do.

December gives her fortune, love and fame
If amulet of rubies bear her name.

2. Moss agate, Brazil, S. A.]

A HINDU LIST OF GEMS OF THE MONTHS[437]

April Diamond
May Emerald
June Pearl
July Sapphire
August Ruby
September Zircon
October Coral
November Cat’s-eye
December Topaz
January Serpent-stone
February Chandrakanta
March The gold Siva-linga

When the zodiacal signs were engraved on gems to give them special virtues and render them of greater efficacy for those born under a given sign, the Hebrew characters designating the sign (or at least the initial character) were often cut upon the gem. As the letters in which the earliest of our sacred writings were written, a peculiar sanctity was often ascribed to these Hebrew characters, which were perhaps the more highly valued that they were unknown to the owners of the gems, and hence possessed a certain air of mystery for them. The subjoined list of the signs with the Hebrew equivalents may be of interest on this account.

HEBREW NAMES OF THE SIGNS OF THE ZODIAC

Libra מאזנים Moznayim
Scorpio עקרב ‘Akrab
Sagittarius קשׁת Ḳeshet
Capricornus גדי Gedi
Aquarius דלי Deli
Pisces דלים Dagim
Aries טלה Ṭaleh
Taurus שׁור Shor
Gemini תאומים Te’omim
Cancer סריה Sartan
Leo אריה Aryeh
Virgo בתולה Betulah

GEMS OF WEEK DAYS

Sunday: Topaz—diamond.

The bairn that is born
On Sonnan’s sweet day
Is blithe and is bonnie,
Is happy and gay.

Sunday’s talismanic gem: the pearl.

Monday: Pearl—crystal.

The bairn that is born
Of Monan’s sweet race
Is lovely in feature
And fair in the face.

Monday’s talismanic gem: the emerald.

Old print showing the Roman types of the days of the week and also the stones and zodiacal signs associated with each day. Here we have Diana, with the sign of Cancer and the moonstone, for Monday; Mars, with the sign Capricorn and the jasper, for Tuesday; Mercury, with Gemini and the rock-crystal, for Wednesday; Jupiter, with Sagittarius and Pisces and the carnelian, for Thursday; Venus, with Taurus and the emerald, for Friday; and Saturn, with Capricorn and Aquarius and the turquoise, for Saturday.]

Tuesday: Ruby—emerald.

If Tuisco assists
And at birth keeps apace,
The bairn will be born
With a soul full of grace.

Tuesday’s talismanic gem: the topaz.

Wednesday: Amethyst—loadstone.

But if Woden be there,
Many tears will he sow,
And the bairn will be born
But for sadness and woe.

Wednesday’s talismanic gem: the turquoise.

Thursday: Sapphire—carnelian.

Jove’s presence at birth
Means a long swath to mow,
For if born on Thor’s day
Thou hast far, far to go.

Thursday’s talismanic gem: the sapphire.

Friday: Emerald—cat’s-eye.

If Venus shall bless thee,
Thou shalt bless many living;
For Friga’s bairn truly
Is loving and giving.

Friday’s talismanic gem: the ruby.

Saturday: Turquoise—diamond.

Seater-daeg’s bairn
In sweat shall be striving,
For Saturn has doomed it
To work for a living.

Saturday’s talismanic gem: the amethyst.

No gems have afforded more interest to the Oriental peoples than those that are known as phenomenal gems; that is, such as exhibit a phenomenal quality, either as a moving line as in the chrysoberyl cat’s-eye, or the quartz cat’s-eye, or as a star, a class represented by the star-sapphire and the star-ruby, all these being considered to bring good fortune to the wearer. A splendid star-sapphire is in the hilt of the sword presented as an Easter gift to King Constantine of Greece, then Prince Constantine, by the Greeks of America, on Easter Day 1913.[438] This ornate and beautiful sword was made by Tiffany & Co. Then there is the alexandrite cat’s-eye which, in addition to its chatoyant effect, changes from green to red, showing its natural color by day and glowing with a ruddy hue by artificial light. The cat’s-eye effect here is caused by a twinning of the crystal; that is, when the gem is cut, with a dome, across the twinning line, this shows itself as a smooth band of white light, with a translucent or transparent space at one side, the line varying in sharpness and in breadth as the illumination becomes more intense. If the light is very bright, the line is no wider than the thinnest possible silver or platinum wire.

The quartz cat’s-eye, less distinct than the chrysoberyl cat’s-eye, is also found in the East, and possesses the property that when cut straight across, an apparent striation in the stone produces the cat’s-eye effect, but the material is not so rich or brilliant nor is the gem as beautiful as is the true cat’s-eye. The alexandrite variety of chrysoberyl is colored by chromium and is dichroitic, appearing green when viewed in one direction and red in another; in artificial light, however, the green color is lost and the red alone becomes apparent.

The moonstone, with its moonlike, silvery-white light, changes on the surface as the light varies. This is due to a chatoyancy produced by a reflection caused by certain cleavage planes present in feldspar of the variety to which the moonstone belongs.

PHENOMENAL GEMS FOR THE DAYS OF THE WEEK

Sunday Sunstone
Monday Moonstone
Tuesday Star sapphire
Wednesday Star ruby
Thursday Cat’s-eye
Friday Alexandrite
Saturday Labradorite

Fashion in some parts of the Orient dictates the use of special colors for raiment and jewels to be worn on the different days of the week. In Siam deep red silks and rubies are appropriate for Sunday wear; white fabrics and moonstones are prescribed for Monday; light red garments and coral ornaments are favored for Tuesday; striped stuffs and jewels set with the cat’s-eye are considered the proper wear for Wednesday; green materials and emeralds are decreed for Thursday; silver-blue robes and ornaments set with diamonds are chosen for Friday, and on Saturday those who obey the dictates of fashion are clad in dark blue garments and wear sapphires of a similar hue.

Our age is not satisfied with the marvellous progress of science, which has rendered possible the realization of many of the old magicians’ dreams. In spite of this there seems to be a growing tendency to revive many of the old beliefs which appeared to have been definitely discarded; therefore we need not be surprised that the nineteenth century offers us a work on the magic art, written precisely in the spirit that animated an Agrippa or a Porta in the fifteenth and sixteenth centuries.[439] This work gives elaborate directions as to the manner in which the “Magus” should proceed to perform his magic rites.

Each day has its special and peculiar ritual. Sunday is the day for the “Works of Light,” and on this day a purple robe should be worn and a tiara and bracelets of gold; the ring placed on the finger of the operator should be of gold and set with a chrysolite or a ruby. A white robe with silver stripes is to be worn on Monday, the day of the “Works of Divination and Mystery,” and the high-priest of the mysteries wears over his robe a triple necklace of pearls, “crystals,” and selenites; the tiara should be covered with yellow silk, and bear in silver characters the Hebrew monogram of Gabriel, as given by Cornelius Agrippa in his “Occult Philosophy.” Tuesday is assigned to the “Works of Wrath,” and on this day the robe must be red, the color of fire and blood, with a belt and bracelets of steel; the tiara should have a circlet of iron, and a sword or a stylus is to be used in place of a wand; the ring is set with an amethyst. The day for the “Works of Science” is Wednesday, when a green robe is worn and a necklace of hollow glass beads, filled with quicksilver; the ring is adorned with an agate. On Thursday, appointed for the “Works of Religion or Politics,” a scarlet robe is worn; upon the forehead of the operator is bound a plate of tin, engraved with the symbol of the planet Jupiter and various mystic characters; the ring bears either an emerald or a sapphire. Friday, the day of Venus, is naturally dedicated to the “Works of Love,” and the celebrant wears a sky-blue robe; his ring shows a turquoise, and his tiara is set with lapis-lazuli and beryl. The “Works of Mourning” belong to Saturday, when a black or a brown robe is worn, embroidered in orange-colored silk with mystic characters; from the neck of the operator hangs a leaden medal, bearing the symbol of the planet Saturn, and on his finger is a ring set with an onyx, upon which a double-faced Janus has been engraved while Saturn was in the ascendant.

GEMS OF THE HOURS

HOURS OF THE DAY HOURS OF THE NIGHT

7 Chrysolite 7 Sardonyx
8 Amethyst 8 Chalcedony
9 Kunzite 9 Jade
10 Sapphire 10 Jasper
11 Garnet 11 Loadstone
12 Diamond 12 Onyx
1 Jacinth 1 Morion
2 Emerald 2 Hematite
3 Beryl 3 Malachite
4 Topaz 4 Lapis-lazuli
5 Ruby 5 Turquoise
6 Opal 6 Tourmaline

WEDDING ANNIVERSARIES

1 Paper 19 Hyacinth
2 Calico 20 China
3 Linen 23 Sapphire
4 Silk 25 Silver
5 Wood 26 Star sapphire, blue[440]
6 Candy 30 Pearl
7 Floral 35 Coral
8 Leather 39 Cat’s-eye[440]
9 Straw 40 Ruby
10 Tin 45 Alexandrite
12 Agate 50 Gold
13 Moonstone[440] 52 Star ruby[440]
14 Moss agate 55 Emerald
15 Rock-crystal, glass 60 Diamond, yellow
16 Topaz 65 Star sapphire, gray[440]
17 Amethyst 67 Star sapphire, purple
18 Garnet 75 Diamond

X

Planetary and Astral Influences of Precious Stones

The talismanic influence of the stones associated with the planets and also with the signs of the zodiac is closely connected with the early ideas regarding the formation of precious stones. In an old work on the occult properties of gems we read:

The nature of the magnet is in the iron, and the nature of the iron is in the magnet, and the nature of both polar stars is in both iron and magnet, and hence the nature of the iron and the magnet is also in both polar stars, and since they are Martian, that is to say, their region belongs to Mars, so do both iron and magnet belong to Mars.

The author then proceeds to describe an analogous relation between a man and any natural object or product to which his imagination draws him, and shows that, if this object be one that stands in a sympathetic relation with the star beneath which the man was born, the man, the star, and the object will constitute a triplicity of great utility. As an explanation of the peculiarly intimate relation between stars and precious stones we read, on page 12:

Metals and precious stones usually lie with their first seeds deep down in the earth and require continuous moisture and a mild heat. This they obtain through a reflection of the sun and the other stars in the manifold movement of the heavens.... Therefore, also, the metals and precious stones are nearest related to the planets and the stars, since these influence them most potently and produce their peculiar qualities, for they are enduring and unchangeable and show therein their concordance [with the stars and the planets].[441]

Hence it is that the influence over human fortunes ascribed by astrology to the heavenly bodies is conceived to be strengthened by wearing the gem appropriate to certain planets or signs, for a subtle emanation has passed into the stone and radiates from it. A combination of several different stones, each partaking of this special quality, was believed to have an influence similar to that exercised by several planets in conjunction,—that is, grouped in the same “house” or division of the heavens.

The same is true of the stones dedicated to the guardian angels; the color and appearance of the stone was not merely emblematic of the angel, but, by its sympathetic quality, it was supposed to attract his influence and to provide a medium for the transmission of his beneficent force to the wearer. The whole theory, whether consciously or unconsciously, rested on the idea of harmony, of the accord of certain ethereal vibrations, either those of the visible light of the stars and planets or the purely psychic emanations from the spiritual “powers and principalities.”

The wearing of the appropriate zodiacal gem was always believed to strengthen the influence of the zodiacal sign upon those born under it, and to afford a sympathetic medium for the transmission of the stellar influences. The gem was thus something more than a mere symbol of the sign. The same was true of the stone of the saint who ruled the month and that of the holy guardian angel set over those born in the month. In each and every case the material form and color of the stone was believed to attract the favor and grace of the saint or angel, who would see in the selection of the appropriate gem an act of respect and veneration on the part of the wearer.

The old writers are never tired of insisting upon the idea that, while the image graven upon a stone was in itself dead and inactive, the influence of the stars during whose ascendancy the work had been executed communicated to the inert material talismanic qualities and virtues which it before lacked. In these instances the images could be regarded as outward and visible signs of the planetary or zodiacal influence. Even in the case of the bezoar stone, a generally recognized antidote for all sorts of poisons, it was held that the scorpion’s bite could be most effectually healed by a bezoar upon which this creature’s figure had been cut during the time when the constellation Scorpio was in the ascendancy.[442]

In the production of engraved stones to serve as amulets, the influence of the respective planet was made to enter the stone by casting upon the latter, during the process of engraving, reflections from a mirror which had been exposed to the planet’s rays. In addition to this, the work was executed while the planet was in the ascendant, and the design was emblematic of it. With these combined influences the gem was believed to be thoroughly impregnated with the planetary virtue.[443]

An old writer finds in the hardness of precious stones a reason for their retaining longer the celestial virtues they receive. After they have been extracted these virtues persist in them and they keep “the traces and gifts of mundane life which they possessed while clinging to the earth.”[444] These “gifts of mundane life” signify the stored-up energy derived from the stars and planets, which penetrates the matter of the stone, and each stone is peculiarly sensitive to the emanations from a certain planet, star, or group of stars.

A fine carnelian gem engraved with a design consisting of a star surrounded by the images of a ram, a bull, and a lion, is described by M. Mairan.[445] He sees in the star the emblem of the splendid comet which appeared shortly after the assassination of Cæsar, and which, according to Suetonius, was believed to be the soul of Cæsar newly received into the sky; the ram, bull, and lion are the symbols of the zodiacal signs Aries, Taurus, and Leo, the first-named sign referring perhaps to the death of Cæsar on the Ides, or fifteenth of March; while the other two signs may allude to the position of the comet at different dates.

In the Cabinet du Roi, in Paris, there was an engraved carnelian, the design showing Jupiter enthroned, with thunderbolt and sceptre, and Mars and Mercury standing on either side of the central figure. Separated from the gods of the upper air by a bow, probably representing the arch of the sky, appears the bust of Neptune, emerging from the sea. The border of the design is formed by the twelve signs of the zodiac, Virgo being of an unusual type,—the virgin and a unicorn,—said to have been used only during the reign of Domitian (81-96 A.D.).[446]

Some choice examples of astrological gems may be seen in the Metropolitan Museum of Art, New York; among these is a green jasper bearing symbols of Luna, Capricorn, and Taurus. This gem is from the collection of the late Rev. C. W. King, which has been acquired for the Museum, and is described as figuring the horoscope of the owner. In the same collection is a banded agate engraved with Sagittarius as a centaur, surrounded by the stars of this constellation in their proper order. King states that this was the earliest horoscopical gem known to him. Still another gem of this collection is a sard bearing the symbol of Aries carrying a long caduceus; this type appears on the coins of Antioch, because that city was founded in the month over which the sign Aries presides.[447]

The Austrian Imperial Collection in Vienna contains the celebrated Gemma Augustea, sometimes called the Apotheosis of Augustus. This commemorates the Pannonian triumph of Tiberius, 13 A.D., and above the figure of Augustus appears the sign of Capricornus, the constellation of his nativity; beneath the figure of Tiberius is engraved the sign of Scorpio, under which that emperor was born. This celebrated cameo, the work of the famous gem-engraver Dioskorides, is mentioned in an inventory of the treasury of St. Sernin, in Toulouse, dated 1246. It is said to have been offered by Francis I of France to Pope Clement VII, on the occasion of their meeting in Marseilles in 1535; however, as the gem only reached Marseilles two days after the pope’s departure, Francis decided to retain possession of it. The royal treasure at Fontainebleau was plundered in 1590, and the stone was offered for sale, and was purchased, in 1619, by Emperor Rudolph II, for the sum of 12,000 ducats.

Old print illustrating the influence believed to be exerted on the different parts of the body by the respective zodiacal signs, and through their power by the stones associated with them. This belief often determined the administration of special precious-stone remedies by physicians of the seventeenth and earlier centuries.]

A ruby called sandastros is described by Pliny as containing stellated bodies which he compares to the Hyades; hence, says he, they are the objects of great devotion with the Chaldæi or Assyrian Magi. According to Morales (De las piedras preciosas), the ruby and the diamond were both under the influence of the sign of Taurus; the same writer informs us that the Hyades and the sun were supposed to have a potent effect upon the ruby or carbuncle. In ancient Babylonia the sign of Taurus was regarded as the most important, and Winckler believes that the presence in this sign of the five stars of the Hyades and the seven of the Pleiades was brought into connection with the twelve-fold division of the zodiac. The Hyades signified the five signs visible in Babylonia at the summer solstice, while the Pleiades typified the seven invisible signs. It seems probable that the Pleiades were associated with the diamond, although Morales, who was very familiar with the Moorish astrology current among the Spaniards of his time, attributed the crystal to this group. His attribution proves at least that the stone of the Pleiades was a colorless one.

In Sanskrit the diamond is called _vajra_, “thunderbolt,” and also _indrâjudha_, “Indra’s weapon”; another name is _açira_, “fire,” or “the Sun.”[448] All these designations are probably suggested by the brilliant flashes of light emitted by this stone. It is not easy to determine the reason that induced the Hindus to dedicate the diamond to the planet Venus rather than to the Sun or to the Moon. However, as the most brilliant of the planets, Venus was not unworthy of the honor, and if we substitute the Goddess of Love for her planet, it seems quite appropriate that she should be adorned with the most brilliant of precious stones. Certainly these sparkling gems are often enough offered at the shrine of Venus in our own day, and they often serve to win the good graces of the divinity to whom they are presented.

The Sanskrit name for the sapphire, _nîla_, signifies “blue,” so that, as the topaz is the “yellow stone” _par excellence_, the sapphire is the blue stone (_nilaçman_). In both cases the name indicates a variety of corundum, distinguished merely by the coloring matter. As a talisman the Hindus believed that the sapphire rendered the planet Saturn favorable to the wearer, an important consideration from the astrological point of view, for Saturn’s influence was generally supposed to be unfavorable. The Hindus distinguished four classes of sapphires, corresponding to the four castes: Brahmins, Kshatriyas, Vaisyas, and Sudras. The respective sapphires were light blue, reddish blue, yellowish blue, and dark blue. The same distinction is made in the case of the diamond, and a like rule applies to both stones, namely, that only the appropriate stone should be worn by the members of each caste, in order to profit by the virtues inherent in the sapphire or diamond.[449]

One of the Sanskrit appellations of the hyacinth (zircon) is _râhuratna_,—that is, the jewel dedicated to the mysterious “dragon,” that was supposed to be the cause of the periodic eclipses of the Sun and Moon.[450] As the stone was sacred to this malevolent influence, we need not be surprised that it was believed to avert misfortune, for nothing was so effective against the lesser spirits of evil as an evil genius of great power.

According to the Hindu mystics it was very lucky to have a turquoise at hand at the time of the new moon, for whoever, after first looking at the moon on the _pratipada_ (the first day after new-moon), should cast his eyes upon a turquoise, was destined to enjoy immeasurable wealth.[451]

ZODIACAL GEMS

Aquarius.
January 21 to February 21.
The Garnet.
If you would cherish friendship true,
In Aquarius well you’ll do
To wear this gem of warmest hue—
The garnet.

Pisces.
February 21 to March 21.
The Amethyst.
From passion and from care kept free
Shall Pisces’ children ever be
Who wear so all the world may see
The amethyst.

Aries.
March 21 to April 20.
The Bloodstone.
Who on this world of ours his eyes
In Aries opens shall be wise
If always on his hand there lies
A bloodstone.

Taurus.
April 20 to May 21.
The Sapphire.
If on your hand this stone you bind,
You in Taurus born will find
’Twill cure diseases of the mind,
The sapphire.

Gemini.
May 21 to June 21.
The Agate.
Gemini’s children health and wealth command,
And all the ills of age withstand,
Who wear their rings on either hand
Of agate.

Cancer.
June 21 to July 22.
The Emerald.
If born in Cancer’s sign, they say,
Your life will joyful be alway,
If you take with you on your way
An emerald.

Leo.
July 22 to August 22.
The Onyx.
When youth to manhood shall have grown,
Under Leo lorn and lone
’Twill have lived but for this stone,
The onyx.

Virgo.
August 22 to September 22.
The Carnelian.
Success will bless whate’er you do,
Through Virgo’s sign, if only you
Place on your hand her own gem true,
Carnelian.

Libra.
September 22 to October 23.
The Chrysolite.
Through Libra’s sign it is quite well
To free yourself from evil spell,
For in her gem surcease doth dwell,
The chrysolite.

Scorpio.
October 23 to November 21.
The Beryl.
Through Scorpio this gem so fair
Is that which every one should wear,
Or tears of sad repentance bear,—
The beryl.

Sagittarius.
November 21 to December 21.
The Topaz.
Who first comes to this world below
Under Sagittarius should know
That their true gem should ever show
A topaz.

Capricorn.
December 21 to January 21.
The Ruby.
Those who live in Capricorn
No trouble shall their brows adorn
If they this glowing gem have worn,
The ruby.

An old Spanish list of the gems of the zodiacal signs differs from those given above, and probably represents Arab tradition:[452]

Aries—Crystal
Taurus—Ruby and diamond
Gemini—Sapphire
Cancer—Agate and beryl
Leo—Topaz
Virgo—Magnet
Libra—Jasper
Scorpio—Garnet
Sagittarius—Emerald
Capricorn—Chalcedony
Aquarius—Amethyst
Pisces—

Of planetary stones[453] there is assigned to the sun the jacinth and the chrysolite, when this latter name was applied to the yellow Brazilian chrysoberyl, while the moon controls the beryl, the rock-crystal and also the pearl. To the share of Venus fall the sapphire and carbuncle as well as coral and pearl; usually the emerald is the stone of Venus. Mars lays claim to the diamond, jacinth, and ruby, the last-named stone according with the ruddy hue of our neighbor planet. Under the control of Jupiter are placed the emerald, sapphire, amethyst, and turquoise, so that this planet has the richest assortment of gems; it will be remarked that the celestial sapphire unites the influence of Venus and Jupiter, the two especially propitious planets. Lastly, far-away Saturn must be content with all dark, black, and brittle stones; there was, indeed, little inducement to wear a Saturnian stone, for the influence of this cold and distant planet was always regarded as baleful.

2. Beads of carnelian artificially marked for “good luck.” The marking is produced by an application of potash and soda. Ancient Persian.]

The planetary controls of precious stones as given in the Lapidario of Alfonso X, according to “Chaldaic” tradition, show that the same stone was influenced in many or most cases by more than one of the “seven planets” (including the Sun and Moon). Thus the diamond, belonging to the first degree of the sign Taurus, was dominated by both Saturn and the Sun; the emerald was controlled by Jupiter, and also by Mercury and by Venus. The red jargoon was influenced by Mars, the yellow variety by Jupiter and the white jargoon by Venus. The carnelian received virtue from the Sun and from Venus. The ruby, although more especially a sunstone, came as well under the influence of the Planet of Love. Coral belonged both to Venus and to the moon, while lapis-lazuli and chalcedony only owed allegiance to Venus; this planet also lent virtue to the beryl.[454]

Among the Mohammedans, six of the seven heavens were supposed to be made of precious substances: the first was of emerald; the second, of white silver; the third, of large white pearls; the fourth, of ruby; the fifth, of red gold; and the sixth, of jacinth. The seventh and highest heaven, however, was of shining light.[455] Here we have the three precious colored stones, emerald, ruby, and sapphire (jacinth), to which is added the pearl.

The scarcity of the diamond in early times, and its comparative lack of brilliancy before the invention of rose and brilliant cutting, account for the absence of this king of gems.