Mysterious opals contain the wonders of the skies – sparkling rainbows, fireworks, and lightning, shifting and moving in their depths. – Author Unknown

The ruby encloses the brilliant red of the clouds of evening… – Charles Blanc, Art in Ornament and Dress, 1875, translated from French

[T]he hyacinth is like the tints of dawn passing from saffron to orange. – Charles Blanc, Art in Ornament and Dress, 1875, translated from French

Many individuals have, like uncut diamonds, shining qualities beneath a rough exterior. – Juvenal