214 J. MILNE CURRAN. 
On trHz OCCURRENCE or PRECIOUS STONES 1n NEW 
SOUTH WALES, anp trae DEPOSITS In wuicH 
THEY ARE FOUND. 
By Rev. J. Mitne Curran. 
[With Plates XIII.- XX.] 
[Read before the Royal Society of N. 8S. Wales, October 7, 1896.] 
ConTENTS. 
Introduction. 
Discovery of Gem-stones. 
Previous Obser 
The Diamond— pane Distribution. Properties of New South 
Wales Gems. 
Sapphire and Ruby—Occurrence in drifts. Occurrence in Basalt. 
Character of Sapphires found in New South Wales : 
Emerald and eta ca Discovery of, in Ate: Quality of 
Topaz—Occurrence. Dintifoution. Characteristics of the stones 
found in New South Wa 
Opal—Occurrence. Silica we is sdestead from silicates of lavas and 
*also from diatomaceous or radiolarian deposits. Qualities of 
Opals. : 
List of Authorities followed. 
Conclusion 
Notes on the ERE of Gems.* 
Explanation of the Plates. 
INTRODUCTION, 
Gems were discovered in New South Wales when gold was 
found by Hargraves at Summer Hill Creek near Ophir. In the 
rush that followed, little was thought of the coloured stones that 
remain almost to the last in the cradle or the prospecting dish. 
Not long ago I had an opportunity of speaking with one of the 
Toms, who were associated with Hargraves, and I was assured 
that even in the early days many of the diggers collected gem = 
