A Book Review of "The Curious Lore of Precious Stones"

"The love of precious stones is deeply implanted in the human heart..."

"The Curious Lore of Precious Stones" is the culmination of twenty five years of delving into the most microscopic facets, collecting the most esoteric and obscure texts along with actual examples of the metaphysics of precious stones and the jewellery they adorn.

The original, unabridged version published in 1913, just before the start of WW II, is truly a labor of love. Not only is the depth and breadth of the project breathtaking and scholarly, but the authors personality and love of his subject are continually exposed like gem deposits in an outcropping of ore.

Precious Stones and the Supernatural

Dr. Kunz opens the book with a discussion of the source of supernatural concepts, comparing them to the benefit acquired by a person who's outlook is improved by wearing personal jewelry;

"...and indeed, this is no delusion, for life is what our thought makes it, and joy is born of gratified desire. Hence, nothing that contributes to increasing the sum of innocent pleasures should be disdained."

Continuing for several chapters, containing the occasional quaint wording from the 1800's, quotes in archaic Old English and references to visits to countries like 'Persia' that no longer exist, Dr. Kunz weaves his own spell while disposing of what he calls "crass skepticism" and making a case for the reality behind superstitious traditions.

Leaving the discussion of amulets, talisman stones and engraved signet rings behind, the good doctor takes an in-depth look at "Ominous and Luminous Stones", "Crystal balls and Crystal gazing" as a way to separate and emphasize the fine distinction he makes between the supernatural use of precious stones and that function gems have held in religions around the globe and throughout history.

Religious Uses of Precious Stones

Wonderful descriptions follow of the forms and types of jewellery created by the symbolic use of precious stones in all religions. This is followed by a thorough look at the famous 'Breastplate of the High Priest' which the author felt contributed to the assignment of birthstones to certain months of the year.

Dr. Kunz closes out the book with an exhaustive look into birthstones and the affiliation to the signs of the zodiac. The final feature concerning the therapeutic and healing qualities of gems.

A Century of Relevance

Every reference made on the internet to birthstones, amulets and talisman stones is derived directly or indirectly from this tome written by the hands of a self educated man acclaimed in his lifetime and after as the leading expert in the general field of minerals and precious stones in particular.

But it is necessary to read "The Curious Lore of Precious Stones" to get the full impact of the wealth of knowledge, fascinating conjecture and historical input of this interesting book.

The most valuable reward for reading this gem of a book is the sparkle and gleam of the authors personality as it shines forth like the light from precious stones.

References:
"The Curious Lore of Precious Stones" by George F. Kunz
www.jewelrybirthstoneswizard.com