NICOLS, Thomas. - Edelgestein-Büchlein, oder Beschreibung der Edelgesteine. Derer Gestalt, Kräffte und Tugenden, Eigenschafften, Preis und Werth. Samt bengefügten Warnungen für Betrug an alle diejenigen, so mit Edelsteinenen handeln und umbgehen ... Übersetzet und herausgegeben von Johann Langen.Hamburg, Johann Naumans and Georg Wolff, 1675. 8vo. Contemporary vellum.

[16], 249, [7] pp.First edition of the German translation of A lapidary, first published in English in 1652 and compiled by Thomas Nicols: ''the first independent gemological book by a British author ... based firmly upon Boetius de Boodt'' (Sinkankas). Nicols lists all the true gems, but also covers fossils, coral, pearls, amber, etc. For each he discusses the forms, appearance, properties (diligently but somewhat sceptically reporting magical, mystical and medical claims), origins, classification, uses, prices, engraving on gems, etc. Nicols makes an intelligent synthesis of the earlier literature, as well as original contributions primarily in practical aspects related to jewellery, such as enhancing stones with reflective foils or dyestuffs, hardening softer stones, and the related subjects of falsification and adulteration.With a few minor smudges. Binding slightly stained. Overall in very good condition.l Carter, Sea of Pearls, p. 92; Sinkankas 4757; Schuh II, 3527; VD 17, 3:302273B; cf. Hoover 610 & 611; Ward 1656.

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