Pæderos of the finest quality comes from India, where it is known as “sangenon;” the next best being that of Egypt, called “tenites.” That of third-rate quality is found in Arabia, but it is rough upon the surface. Next, we have the stone of Pontus, the radiance of which is softer than in that of Thasos, which, in its turn, is of a more mellowed colour than the stones of Galatia, Thrace, and Cyprus. The defects commonly found in these stones are, a want of brilliancy, a confusion with colours which do not properly belong to them, and the other imperfections which are found in stones in general.[3189]
CHAP. 47.—ASTERIA.
Next among the white stones is “asteria,”[3190] a gem which holds its high rank on account of a certain peculiarity in its nature, it having a light enclosed within, in the pupil of an eye as it were. This light, which has all the appearance of moving within the stone, it transmits according to the angle of inclination at which it is held; now in one direction, and now in another. When held facing the sun, it emits white rays like those of a star, and to this, in fact, it owes its name.[3191] The stones of India are very difficult to engrave, those of Carmania being preferred.
CHAP. 48.—ASTRION.
Of a similar white radiance is the stone that is known as “astrion,”[3192] closely resembling crystal in its nature, and found in India and upon the coasts of Pallene.[3193] In the centre of it there shines internally a brilliant star, with a refulgence like that of the moon when full. Some will have it that this stone receives its name from the fact that, when held opposite to the stars, it absorbs the light they emit and then returns it. The finest stones, they say, are those of Carmania, there being none more entirely free from all defects. They add, also, that a stone of inferior quality is known as “ceraunia,”[3194] and that, in the worst of all, the light is very similar to that given by a lamp.
CHAP. 49.—ASTRIOTES.
Astriotes,[3195] too, is a stone that is highly esteemed, and Zoroaster, they say, has sung its wondrous praises as an adjunct of the magic art.
CHAP. 50.—ASTROBOLOS.
Sudines says, that astrobolos[3196] resembles the eye of a fish in appearance, and that it has a radiant white refulgence when viewed in the sun.