Carbuncle
In ancient belief this stone was supposed to give out a natural
light without reflection; it was ranked fifth in value after diamonds,
emeralds, opals, and pearls. It is among the gems ruled
by the sun and is both male and femalethe former distinCao
Dai Encyclopedia of Occultism & Parapsychology 5th Ed.
248
guished by the brightness that appears to burn within it, and
the latter by the light it throws off. It takes no color from any
other gem applied to it, but imparts its own. The virtue of the
carbuncle was said to be its power to drive away poisonous air,
repress luxury, and preserve the health of the body. It was also
supposed to reconcile differences among friends.
