CHAP. 38.—CYANOS; THE SEVERAL VARIETIES OF IT.
We must also give a separate account of cyanos, [Note] a name
which, until very recently, was given to a species of iaspis,
on account of its cærulean colour. The best kind is that of
Scythia, [Note] the next best being the produce of Cyprus, and, last
of all, that of Egypt. An artificial [Note] kind is much in use,
that is prepared by dyeing other substances; and this invention
is looked upon as one of the great glories of the kings
of Egypt, the name of the king who first discovered it being
still preserved in their annals. This stone, too, is divided into
male and female, and sometimes it has the appearance of being
powdered with a golden dust, in much the same way as sapphiros.
