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

A fine quotation is a diamond on the finger of a witty person, but a pebble in the hands of a fool. – Author Unknown

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 aquamarine… has the glassy tint of the waves of the sea. – Charles Blanc, Art in Ornament and Dress, 1875, translated from French