There is in them a softer fire than the ruby, there is the brilliant purple of the amethyst, and the sea green of the emerald – all shining together in incredible union. Some by their splendor rival the colors of the painters, others the flame of burning sulphur or of fire quickened by oil. – Pliny, about the opal

As though pure white snow flashed and sparkled with the color of bright ruddy wine, and was overcome by this radiance. – Author unknown, about opal

The rarest things in the world, next to a spirit of discernment, are diamonds and pearls. – Jean de la Bruyere, translated from French

[T]he sapphire… is a concentration of azure. – Charles Blanc, Art in Ornament and Dress, 1875, translated from French