18 



98-39 



In this analysis all the iron has been reckoned as protoxide ; in- 

 all probability some is present as peroxide, and this would 

 account for the low total. Another sample from the Maude 

 Company yielded 39 per cent, of silica, with large quantities of 

 alumina and oxide of iron, and smaller quantities of lime and 

 magnesia. 



A word or t^\'0 now with reference to hardness and infusibility. 

 First, with reference to hardness. Unfortunately I have no re- 

 liable specimens at hand with which to test hardness ; but let us. 

 take for granted that the hardness of some of these stones is 8,, 

 and that is, I understand, the highest that has been given. Dana, 

 one of the greatest, if not the greatest, mineralogical authority, 

 places the hardness of garnets at from 6-5 to 7-5. Between the 

 latter number and 8 there is a very small margin, and no one 

 with any knowledge of the great difference in physical properties- 

 produced by comparatively small variations in chemical compo- 

 position will lay any stress upon this small excess of hardness. 

 In connection with this it may be noted that the analyses above 

 given show rather larger proportions of alumina and less of oxide 

 of iron than are contained in most of the specimens of this 

 variety of garnet, analyses of which are given by Dana, the silica 

 being about the same. It is quite possible that this slight dif- 

 ference in composition may account for the increased hardness.. 

 Then as to alleged infusibility. Very much depends upon the 

 method of testing. These stones will not fuse if they be tested 

 by the blowpipe as they are found, but let them be powdered 

 first, and the powder fuses easily into distinct globules. This will 

 never happen with true rubies or spinelles. 



In conclusion, it must be understood that my statements relate 

 only to those specimens handed to me, which, however, I am 

 assured are representatives of the vast majority of stones sent to^ 

 Europe. It would be rash to say that no rubies have been found- 

 Further, I have brought this matter before the Society simply as 

 of some little scientihc interest, and my remarks must not be- 

 taken as having any reference to the value of these stones. What 

 they are worth from a commercial point of view I cannot say ; it 

 may be much or it may be little. 



