Book 37 Chapter 10 Luxury displayed in the use of crystal. Remedies derived from crystal.
In Chapter 10 luxury displayed in the use of crystal remedies derived from crystal is analyzed by Pliny the Elder. The first item is the diamond crystal which Pliny describes as a very expensive crystla. Pliny makes point of stating crystals can be some of the most difficult to obtain. A clear uncut crystal is the most valueable crystal. The item is the crystal garnet which is a crystal with a reddish hue. Towards the end of the chapter Pliny also states the medicinal value of crystal.
Pliny describes the value and luxury that comes along with the use and ownership of crystal. Pliny states that India has many crystals that reference imperialism. It was common for medicinal and scientific knowledge to be transferred because of imperialism (Gibson, 60). It is possible the knowledge of the medicinal value of crystal, such as treating mania or cautery when mixed with sunlight, may have emerged from imperialism. In addition, Pliny is sharing the knowledge of science and remedies with this crystal. The medical use of crystal is information that would be important to be recorded and transferred (Gibson, 113-114). This chapter is the intersection of multiple themes such as health, imperialism, and the luxury of precious stone use.