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CHAP. 29.—LYCHNIS: FOUR VARIETIES OF IT.

To the same class of flame-coloured stones belongs that known as "lychnis;"1 so called from its lustre being height- ened by the light of the lamp, under which circumstances its tints are particularly pleasing. It is found in the vicinity of Orthosia, throughout the whole of Caria, and in the neighbouring localities; but the most approved stones are those that come from India. Some writers have given the name of "deadened"2 carbunculus to a lychnis of second-rate quality, and similar in colour to the flower known as the "flower of Jove."3 I find other varieties also mentioned, one with a purple radiance, and another of a scarlet4 tint. It is asserted, too, that these stones, when heated or rubbed between the fingers, will attract5 chaff and filaments of paper.

1 From λυχνὸς, a "lighted lamp" or "torch." Brotero is of opinion that this is the Cherry-coloured ruby, that the Ionian stone is the Purple ruby, and that the kermes-berry coloured stone is the Scarlet or Spinelle ruby. From the distinct reference made to its electric nature, Ajasson identifies it with Tourmaline, a Silicate of alumina. Beckmann is of the same opinion; Hist. Inv. Vol. I. p. SS. Bohn's Edition.

2 "Remissiorem."

3 See B. xxi. cc. 33, 39, where the "Flos Jovis" is mentioned in juxtaposition with the flower called "lychnis," either the Umbel'd Campion rose, or the Common red rose Campion.

4 "Coccum." "Kermes-berry coloured." These kinds probably were, Indicolite or Blue tourmaline, and Rubellite or Red Tourmaline.

5 As Beckmann remarks, he should have said that it first attracts, and then repels them; such being the case with Tourmaline.

The Natural History. Pliny the Elder. John Bostock, M.D., F.R.S. H.T. Riley, Esq., B.A. London. Taylor and Francis, Red Lion Court, Fleet Street. 1855.

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