The Curious Lore of Precious Stones: Being a Description of Their Sentiments and Folk Lore, Superstitions, Symbolism, Mysticism, Use in Medicine, Protection, Prevention, Religion, and Divination

By George Frederick Kunz

Book Overview

Curious Lore of Precious Stones is a fascinating book written by George Frederick Kunz, a renowned gemologist and mineralogist. The book is a comprehensive guide to the history, myths, legends, and folklore associated with precious stones. Kunz explores the cultural significance of gemstones throughout history, from ancient civilizations to modern times. He delves into the beliefs and superstitions surrounding gemstones, such as their supposed healing powers and their use in magic and divination. The book also covers the science behind gemstones, including their formation, properties, and identification. Kunz provides detailed descriptions of various precious stones, including diamonds, rubies, emeralds, sapphires, and pearls. Curious Lore of Precious Stones is a captivating read for anyone interested in gemstones, history, or folklore. Kunz's extensive knowledge and engaging writing style make this book a must-read for gem enthusiasts and casual readers alike.1913. A description of their sentiments and folk lore, superstitions, symbolism, mysticism, use in medicine, protection, prevention, religion, and divination, crystal gazing, birthstones, lucky stones and talismans, astral, zodiacal, and planetary. With 86 illustrations. Includes comments on the therapeutic use of precious and semiprecious stones.This scarce antiquarian book is a facsimile reprint of the old original and may contain some imperfections such as library marks and notations. Because we believe this work is culturally important, we have made it available as part of our commitment for protecting, preserving, and promoting the world's literature in affordable, high quality, modern editions, that are true to their original work.

• Format: Hardcover
• Language: English
• ISBN: 1161364765
• ISBN13: 9781161364767
• Release Date: May 2010
• Publisher: Kessinger Publishing
• Length: 522 Pages
• Weight: 2.46 lbs.
• Dimensions: 1.1" x 7.0" x 10.0"

Customer Reviews

Curious Lore of Precious Stones

Good old fashioned stuff by someone who lived for gemstones. Very interesting and informative. Quick delivery.

Classic on Gemstone Lore

I bought this book because Kunz's work has been the basis for much of what we know about ancient gemstone lore. Kunz's lifelong passion for rocks and gemstones began in childhood and as a gemologist and geologist, he was able to collect and organize vast amounts of gemstone lore. He was also a collector of stones, amulets and magical charms, many of which were donated to the American Museum of Natural History. His enthusiasm for the subject is evident and even though this book is nearly 100 years old, I found it surprisingly easy to read.

A precious book

Interesting book dealing about precious stone and their lore in the past.

The Curious Lore of Precious Stones;

I bought this book because I enjoy buying gemstones and rocks and just for fun I wanted to know more about the traditional properties that were associated with them. This book written in 1912 and was last reprinted in 1971. Author, George Frederick Kunz, was no doubt the leading expert of his time. The book is full of all kinds of information, from every religion and culture, and was very well researched. He quotes literature from ancient times through what was known up to his time. His writing style is also consistent with his times, so modern readers may find it a little stiff. There are newer lapidaries available...this is a good and entertaining reference.

A timeless classic devoted to gemstone lore.

Geoge Frederick Kunz's contribution as a gemmologisy at the beginning of the century earned him universal fame and respect, even to the point that one the most popular stones in modern energy work is named after him: Kunzite. Dover has published a reprint of his 1913 monument to the "hidden" side of gems: The Curious Lore of Precious Stones. This 400 page volume contains a wealth of material based on medieval lapidary tomes, history, folklore,the Bible, the Eddas, archeological findings, and oral traditions still alive at the time of Kunz's writing. The casual or serious reader cannot help but be impressed by the depth of understanding Kunz deplayed in page after page of riches associated with all aspects of gems and their uses. Thank you, Dover, for allowing us access to this remarkable book.