With 10 illustrative Plates. This is a study of the symbolism of precious stones, and how they have been used as magical objects through the ages, both intrinsically, and as a vehicle for symbolic engravings. The book covers Hindu, Jewish, Chinese, Egyptian, Roman, Gnostic, and Christian lore of gems. The final section discusses the astrological connections of key gems, sign by sign. This work also includes quite a bit of history of important (and often 'cursed') stones such as the Hope diamond, and practical advice about purchasing gems. Anyone interested in the symbolism of gemstones will find this a great reference and a fascinating read.

Death! The children of the three witches of Bideford who were hanged in 1682 have vowed to kill all those people responsible for their parent’s deaths and their own murder by hanging based on trumped-up charges to cover up the crime of their local judge. However, it is not only those directly responsible that are cursed, but all their descendants as well. For Hugo Bennett and his family, that includes them. If Hugo is to survive then he must destroy not just one adversary but now two, who have taken over the bodies of a young ambitious reporter, Sue Redwell and Hugo’s best friend, Emma Jones. Fortunately, he is aided by his friend; Bird. A strange, magical animal that has been mutated by Kadavera, one of the daughters of the witches in her experiments to exist in daylight so that she can fulfil her deadly vow. Hugo has found a magical amulet that originated from the sword of King Arthur; Excalibur. It was the inheritance of the witches and gave them their power. Its loss makes them even more determined to regain it and its power, irrespective of who or what gets in their way. In this case, Hugo and his family. The witches won’t stop until they’ve fulfilled their vow and time is running out for Hugo if he’s to prevail in his quest and stay alive...

Examine the infinite variety of charms and fetishes found in every civilization, from the distant past to the present. Learn the entire history of these tools, their geography, how they are part of each man and woman's search for connection with spiritual forces, and how to make and use them. Loaded with hundreds of illustrations, this is the ultimate reference guide.