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Virtues, as is alſo the Lapis[1] Lyncurius, which is likewiſe uſed for engraving Seals on, and is of a very ſolid Texture, as Stones are; it has alſo an attractive Power, like that of Amber, and is ſaid to attract not only Straws and ſmall pieces of Sticks, but even Copper and Iron, if they are beaten into thin Pieces. This Diocles affirms.
- ↑ There has been more Confuſion and Error about the Lapis Lyncurius of the Antients, than about any other Subſtance in the whole foſſile Kingdom. What I have to offer in regard to it, is very different from the generally received Opinions: theſe are, however, firſt to be examined; for if they are right, this has no Title to be heard.
The firſt and moſt generally received is, that it was what we now call the Belemnites: This is the Opinion of Woodward, &c. &c. &c. how true it may be is to be examined from their Accounts; and as they are, moſt of them, only Copies, and thoſe often erroneous ones, of this Author, he is, where his Deſcriptions are long enough, always firſt to be conſulted, and moſt relied on; and from his Words I venture to pronounce it evident, that the Lapis Lyncurius was not the Belemnites. He firſt ſays, it was fit for engraving Seals on; which every one who ever ſaw a Belemnites muſt pronounce impoſſibie to have been meant of it; its Structure rendering it the moſt improper Subſtance imaginable for ſuch Uſes. And next, that it was of a very ſolid Texture, like that of the Stones or Gems: the firſt Sight of a Belemnites muſt alſo prove, that this was not meant of it; for it is not of a ſolid Texture, nor of
the Gems in general, it is now the reigning Opinion, that they are nearly all ſo, their greateſt Friends allowing them no other than thoſe of the common Cryſtal. However, whether the metalline Particles, to which they owe their Colours, are, in either Quantity or Quality, in Condition to have any Effect in the Body, is a Matter worthy a ſtrict and regular Trial; and that would at once decide the Queſtion between us and the Antients, and ſhew whether we have been too raſh, or they too ſuperſtitious.
