Europe in the Middle Ages. 47 



by enormous emeralds, the vinegar by sparkling 

 rubies, the oil by yellow topazes, and the salt by 

 Pearls. 



Notwithstanding the dire consequences of the 

 Thirty Years' war, immense sums were expended 

 during the 17th century upon ornaments and 

 luxury of all kinds. Knightly orders, sword and 

 hat knots, rings, shoe buckles, waistcoat buttons — 

 all glittered with gems. The stomacher and the 

 enormous collar and ruff, both richly trimmed with 

 Pearls and jewels, were also introduced about this 

 time. In the i8th century precious stones were less 

 lavishly employed, especially after the French 

 Revolution, and dress in general came to be 

 characterized by greater simplicity. 



