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In the course of my research I found that although, of course, some rare stones have amazing and frightening dynastic tales, every jewel, however small or flawed, has it's story: about the earth that was excavated to retrieve it, the families who depended on it, the people who designed the cutting method, the others who brought or were given it, and the meanings and properties attributed to it. Whole human, geological and cultural histories are wrapped up in every stone we wear or desire, even if it is only an imitation.
Buried Treasure. Travels Through the Jewel Box Victoria Finlay
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