DIAMONDS.
DVKat thejr Art, Where they Com Frm
art Who Orru Them White, Black,
-, d Blue Diamonds Pecullur
Histories of Ancient and Modern Veins
Peerless Purity vermi Perishable
Passe How Diamond are Valued The
Diamond Mlnea of Oolconda and Brazil
Kohlnor, the Mountain of Light
The Lesser Brllllanta of our Ball-rooma
and Parlora-A Olance Into the Realrai
f Faehlon.
The diamond is a crystallizi-d crom. of all
jewels the most esteemed. Physically con
idered, it is the hardest of all known sub
Btances. It cuts erery thing, and can be cut hy
nothing save itself or its own dust.
The internal coat of the diamond is said to
W harder than the internal ; the hardness of
the latter being rated at 10, and the former at
10-5 or 11. The specific gravity of the Bra
ailian diamond is estimated at 3-4 14; of the
Brazilian yellow at 3-519 ; of the Oriental,
3-1)21 ; Oriental green, 3-524; Oriental blue,
3-525. The crystal of the diamond is octahe
dral in form, resembling two four-sided pyra
mids joined at the base. The crystal has
cleavage planes which facilitate its cutting.
Some varieties of the regular crystalline form
kavo been observed approaching to the spheri
eal, with curved edges, etc.
The diamond is not acted upon by acids or
alkalies. It cau, however, ho acted upon by
heat. Jt can bd destroyed by a Uunseu's
battery or a condensed mixture of carbonio
Dxido and oxygen, resolved into a sort of coke
and sublimed. In the air it burns at about
the degree of heat necessary to melt silver,
and gives- off carbonic gas. At first there wero
tome doubts as to the inflammability of the
diamond, ftewton, however, from its great
refractive power, inferred its combustibility.
In the year 1G'J5 it was burnt at Florence by a
powerful concentration of the solar rays. Sir
JIumphrey Davy, the French savant Lavoisier,
and others, aleo proved its combustibility.
The phosphorescence of the diamond has
also been asserted, though, we believe, never
absolutely ascertained. Tiffany & Co. some
years ago made some experiments on this sub
ject, but only succeeded in destroying their
diamonds. The diamond is one of the most
powerful refractors of light known. It pos
sesses fiinde (and bj some supposed to pos
sess double) refraction. It is to this quality
that the superior brilliancy of the gem is due;
while, as it is so hard, it likewise retains its
lustre. When rubbed it becomes electrical,
and attracts straw and hair a pjpperty which,
it is said, no other uncut gem possesses. The
diamond shines moro brilliantly by artificial
than by natural light. It can be readily
broken. The most singular fact about the
diamond is, perhaps, its chemical composition,
which is simply that of crystallized carbon or
coal, just as the ruby is mere crystallized
clay. The most beautiful, it is also the most
simple of substances, and closely allied to the
most unattractive. What is still more sin
gular, though the diamond can be resolved
into carbon, carbon cannot be resolved into
the diamond. Mons. Desprctz, Professors Hare
and Silliinan, and many othor learned men,
have attempted this latter feat, but have all
been unsuccessful, which is a very lucky thing
for the owners of diamonds, or else their pro
perty would soon be comparatively valueless.
vabietiks.
Diamonds are generally colorless or white,
but there are many colored diamonds. The
non-colored gems are called of the "first
water," from their resemblance to a mass of
spring water, and are the most highly
esteemed. Then there are the rose-colored
diamonds, which are high in value; then
the green diamond, and then the blue. Tlw
yellow or cinnamon-colored diamonds are not
so much in, deinami as those varieties just
mention,!. There are also diamonds which,
"Enough pure, are perfectly black. Diamonds
are also technically divided into three classes,
determined by their cutting and setting, as
the brilliant or Mazarine, the rose, and the
table. These will be described more fully
hereafter.
pockces.
The earliest diamonds were found in Asia
Borneo, Bengal, and Oolconda, in Hindustan.
Within a comparatively recent period they
liave been derived from Brazil. They have
also been found in Siberia, and to a very small
degree in Oeorgia and North Carolina. Dia
monds are often found along with gold in allu-
. "vial deposits. In Oolconda the diamonds, it is
eaid, were found in a black, coaly earth. The
Itacolumite, a yellow and white quartz-rock,
is often met in conjunction M'ith diamonds.
The Oolconda mines are no longer in opera
tion. In Brazil, the diamond district is a very
mountainous region, about fifty miles long by
twenty-four miles wide, and known as the Cerro
do Frio. The earth obtained from the beds of
rivers is carefully washed by slaves, under the
direction, of overseers, and then thoroughly
examined and depleted of its treasures: all
.smuggling being severely punished though
every slave who finds a diamond exceeding
17$ carats is immediately set free. The dia
monds of Brazil were discovered by accident,
and the diamands themselves were thought to
be mere trifles. Ou oflicial examination they
were only deemed to be crystals, and it was
reserved for a Dutchman to ascertain their
real value. This, however, being ouva de
cided, the Government was seized with a fit of
rapacity, took possession of the whole region,
and for a long while the diamond district of
Urazil was a terra iynota to all save the skives
and the Government agents; but in course of
.timo this mysteriously severe policy has been
relaxed.
THE DIAMOND A3 AN OttVAMBN'T.
As "a thing of beauty and a joy forever," the
diamond has been prized from the earliest
ages and in all lands. In the far-off times, in
the "barbarous" East, diamonds and gi-ms
were the favorite adornment and insignia of
prinoes; and in later periods, among the
masters of the world, the Romans, who far
xcelled in their luxury all modern splendor,
gems and diamonds were appreciated to the
utmost. The hall where Cleopatra entertained
Ciesar was literally respelondent with jewels,
as was the lady herself. The' very furniture
of the patricians was adornod with jewels;
jewels sparkled in the sterns of ships; pre
cious gems were worn on the sandals of the
fair dames; while some of the noble ladies, it is
narrated even carried their diamonds with
them to their beds, that they might enjoy
in their very sleep the consciousness of the
possession of rare and lovely treasures.
Jewels amounting to over $1, 500,000 wer
worn at one time by Lollia Paulina, the daugh
ter of a Senator. Lady Faustina's ring cost
$200,000; the Lady Domitia's ring $300,000,
while the diadem of Sabiua was worth $1,250,
00. Caesar, thinking to put a check upon
extravagance, passed an edict forbidding un
married women to wear jewels, but the only
effect of this law was to put an end at ouoe to
celibacy, every young Roman woman immedi
ately imploring the aid of Hymen, and marry
ing the first man she could find, for the sake
of an establishment; deeming her husband,
, Tinder the circumstances, as indued 4'a jewel
"-'tftsiaa."
THE DAILY EVENING jgLIlAFII. PHILADELPHIA, TUESDAY,
In after ages, jewels were still remembered.
Charles, Duke of Burgundy, wm a connoisseur
in diamonds. Francis I worshipped them.
Henry VIII affected them. Qmien Elizabeth
of England was ravenously fond of them; so
fond of them that she stole all the jewels of
poor Mary of Scotland, and never gave any
compensation for them Rave taking the head
of their beautiful but most unfortunate owner.
Tho Spanish Kings were likewise addicted to
diamonds; while in France, under the rule of
Henry IV, Louis XIII, Louis XIV, and Louis
XV, to be jewelless was to bo worthless.
The story of the Diamond Necklace is too
Well known to require repetition; but there is
a diamond tragedy associated with the memory
of the beautiful Mad'lle Carlier, heiress of
Carlier, a French bookseller of the time, which
merits a brief record. A Monsieur Tiquet sent
to the young lady a bouquet, in which
diamonds and (lowers intermingled in loautiful
display. This gift, so suggestive of wealth,
won the young heiress at once and she be
came Madame Tiquet only to find herself the
wife of an adventurer, who had used all his
means and credit to purchase tho diamond
bouquet which he had thus used as a decoy to
win her hand and her fortune. She resented
the deception and separated from him. Ho
tried tho power of a lettre do cachet, but she
tore it up before his face. At last, one night,
Monsieur Tiquet was found weltering in his
wounds. Ho did not die, however, and imme
diately accused his wife of an attempt to
murder him, of which charge sho was found
guilty and suffered tho fatal penalty a penalty
which of the two he by far tho more richly
deserved.
In our own times the diamond still pre
serves its supremacy alike over the eyes and
the purses of humanity; and princes, men of
rank, nii I almost all rich men are to be found
anion- its envied and envious possessors.
Till-: OKEAT DIAMONDS.
There are seven diamonds in existence of
such great size, purity, and value as to de
serve the title of paragon. These seven wo
will briefly describe:
1. Tho Regent Diamond; obtained from
India by Mr. Pitt, Governor of Madras. Be
fore cutting it weighed 410 carats. After cut
ting (which operation consumed two years) it
weighed 13G carats. It was subsequently pur
by the Regent Due d'Oileaus for a sum equal
to fC75,OHO. Its worth is now estimated at
over a million. It is m the possession of tug
Crown Of France. Its length is 1-2437 inches;
breadth, 1-177; depth, -35!'; and weight in
Troy grains, 434.
2. fctar of the South; found in Brazil, and
taken to France. Weighs 2"4 carats.
3. Portuguese Diamond; a Brazilian. Weighs
in the rough, lllH) carats; worth an immense
fortune, if genuine, which is doubted. It is
said to be only a line white topaz.
4. The Kohinoor (Mountain of Light); ob
tained from the mines of Oolconda over two
thousand years ago having an eventful and
romantic history; becoming part of the re
nowned treasures of Delhi; then passing into
the hands of Nadir Shah; and at last, by treaty,
falling into the possession of the Crown of
England. Its original weight was- 18o' carats.
The last cutting took place at a comparatively
recent date, a steam engine being made for tho
purpose, and tho Duke of Wellington com
mencing in persoiLthe operation. It has been
placed on public exhibition.
5. The Sultan of Matan. This diamond, ob
tained from Borneo, is ef remarkable size and
purity. Its weight is 3l!7 carats; its value
$3,500,000. It is shaped like an egg, with a
dent at ono end. "
G. The Orleff diamond, belonging to tho
crown of Russia, Weighs 195 carats, and is
about tho size of a pigeon's egg. It was ori
ginally stolen from an Eastern idol, and was
ultimately sold by a Greek merchant to Queen
Catherine.
7. The Austrian diamond, or diamond of the
Grand Duke ot Tuscany is of lemon color, and is
cut in rose. It weighs 139 carats. It was origi
nally purchased for a tritle. Its color and cut
militate somewhat against its value. It is
worth only $500,000, instead of double that
sum.
There are also six diamonds, which, though
Finaller than those just described, are yet of
great value, and have become celebrated.
These are:
1. The Shah of Persia, weighing So" 3-40
carats, of singular shape, and covered with
inscriptions. Belonging at present to the
crown of Russia.
2. The Sancy, weighing 5IH carats.
The Nass.Vk, weighing fcl) carats.
4. Tho Arcott brilliants, weighing 5G carats.
5. The Pigott diamond, weighing 4!) carats.
This gem has passed through a variety of
adventures, has been disposed of at a lottery,
and is now in the possession of the Viceroy of
Egypt.
G. The blue diamond of a triangular shape.
This once belonged to the French crown
jewels, but of late years it has mysteriously
disappeared it was stolen and never found.
In addition to the above list, we may mention
that the diamonds belonging to the royal fami
lies of Portugal, Spain, and Brazil are of re
markable brilliancy and value. The King of
Saxony possesses a superb green diamond.
Mr. Hope, of England, has given his name to
a magnificent l-lue diamond. Many antique
gems, engraved with the peculiar art of tho
ancients a skill which far surpasses all
modern attempts in this line are in the pos
session of wealthy connoisseurs, especially ou
the continent. 'The Duke of Bedford pos
sesses some valuable gems of this kind. We
are informed that Mrs. Belmont and other of
our republican noblesse are similarly favored.
Mr. Joseph Mover, Mr. James Moore,, and
Mrs. Jarvis, of this city, are the owners of
valuable and rare black diamonds.
The Polar Star, a brilliant diamond, belongs
to the Russian Princess Yougsoupotf, and
weighs forty carats. Tho Prince Esterhazy
lias a diamond valued at twelve millions of
francs. The Holland diamond weighs 3G
carats, and is valued at 2U0,OO0 francs. Prince
Rioria, of Naples, owns a lino rose diamond,
15 carats. A Mr. Halpher owns a very pure
diamond of 22V carats. The Nizam is a very
fine Eastern diamond weighs 340 carats. The
Sultan of Turkey has two very tine diamonds.
DIAMOND KOHBEU1ES.
The value of the diamond has often caused
it to bo an object of unlawful cupidity, though
its rarity has' rendered it a difficult article tor
a thief to dispose Ol. mere wi-id ww
brated diamond robberies between the years
1702 and 1831. The first of these was the
robbery of the crown jewels of France from
the Garde Meuble, where they were deposited.
This was a very mysterious affair, and has
never leen satisfactorily explained. Some of
the jewels were recovered; a few of the parties
were arrested; but the cloud has never been
wholly dispelled. In the year 1801, about
$100,000 worth of Jewels were stolen from the
Princess of Santa Croce by her dependants and
some adventurers. In 1829, Mad'lle. Mars, the
celebrated French actress, was robbed of her
Jewels. She published a list of the stolen
treasures forthwith. The catalogue, embrac
ing forty-four different gems, diamond neck
lace, combs, bracelets, crosses, etc., were all
well known to the public, as tshe was in the
LaLit of weaiing them during her theatrical
performances. The jewels were afterwards
recovered, and the thieves, her own servants,
punished. In 1831, the Princess of Orange
was also robbed of her diamonds by friends
this affair has, however, long since lx-en hushed
up. In more recent times, diamond robberies
have not ceased. London was agitated, not
long ago, by a peculiar roblwry of this kind,
and in New York we havo had not a few cases.
A well-known -bank-note engraver of thU
city was recently waited upon by two men,
apparently gentlemen, with ono of whom he
was slightly acquainted. They produced for
his inspection some diamonds, and requested
a loan of several thousands of dollars upon
their security. The engraver accompanied
his visitors to Tiffany's, where the diamonds
were pronounced genuine, and the loan was ac
cordingly negotiated. In a few days the parties
returned and redeemed the diamonds. A start
time afterwards, tho parties again visited the
engraver; and producing a much iarger and
apparently more valuable assortment of dia
monds, among which were the identical
jewels on which tho former loan had been
made, requested a second loan, much greater
in amount, though still amply warranted by
tho market value of the gems offered. Confi
dence by this time having been established,
the proposition was at once, without further
examination, acceded to. The money was
loaned, and the borrowers departed, and have
not since been seen. Tho diamonds offered
have been found to be only capital paste, part
of them excellent imitations of the diamonds
first offered.
A fashionable personage, known in avenue
circles as "The Count," was some years ago
discovered to bo nothing more nor less than a
diamond thief, having dishonestly obtained
possession of the jewels of a leading belle.
The matter was hushed up, however, but the
Count departed to less aristocratic localities.
Mr. John Anderson, the retired tobacco
dealer nnd the eminent philanthropist, was
recently the victim of a diamond swindle.
Albert Burtis, the burglar, was accustomed
to sport once on a time in this city a diamond
worth 12,000, which he is said to have stolen
from the person of an Englishman travelling
abroad ; and in this connection it may be re
marked that many of the professional thieves
of New York are to be reckoned among the
owners, or at least the holders, of diamonds.
DIAMONDS AS AN INVESTMENT.
At the present day, in this ago of calcula
tion and in this land of calculators, diamonds
are valued not only as an ornament but as an
investment. This branch of tho subject leads
to various reflections entirely independent of
history, romance, or beauty, but involves
mattor-of-fact details. As an investment dia
monds havo the great objection of being inca
pable of Waring interest; but on the other
hand they are independent (comparatively)
of the fluctuations of trade, of the price of gold,
etc.; they have fixed standards (as far as possi
ble) of genuine value, and they are very port
able, easily transported from place to place.
Besides (which in these times is a great con
sideration), diamonds are comparatively free
from tax paying no tax either to the State or
Government, saving under the general head of
personal property, and a duty of ten per
cent, to the Government. All these facts
being taken into consideration, it would seem
that onr wealthy citizens are not so "extrava
gant" as would at first appear in their outlay
in diamonds.
THE DIAMOND BrSINESS.
The United States is one of the very best
modern markets for the sale of diamonds,
and as such is rapidly attracting the attention
of the diamond-producing countries. Many
of the diamonds sent to this country are old
family jewels, with histories attached, once
the property of the noblemen of Portugal,
Spain, France, and England.
The trade in diamonds, like all others, has
its period) of fluctuations; but as a rule it is
more equable than the majority of commercial
branches. Tho Indian diamonds have been
crowded out of the market, as it were, to a
certain extent, by tho Brazilian; and these, in
course of time, may yield to gems discovered
in other localities. In fact, it is estimated by
many thoroughly versed in the matter that
the earth is full of diamonds, and that some
day the supply will probably exceed the de
maud. At the present time, however, the
case is exactly the reverse. The yield of Brazil
for many years averaged three thousand six
hundred carats per annum. The number of
dealers in diamonds in New lork will reach
from eighty to one hundred. The value of
diamonds in the United States will reach
$10,0000,000 of which at least $110,000,000 is
to be found in New York city alone. Diamonds
are said to be appraised ten per cent, higher
in this country than they are abroad. This
estimate, however, is being diminished.
UOW DIAMONDS ABE VALUED.
The first item in determining the value of
a diamond is its color, according to the stato
nients published in the opening portion of this
article. The next consideration is the manner
in which it is set or cut. The cutting of the
diamond is a very important element. When
taken out of the mine the diamond is ofttinies
merely a dull-looking stone, appearing to be
coated with gum-arabic; but when polished
and cut, it is of all stones the most brilliant.
Cutting, of course, diminishes the weight and
size of a diamond, but increases the brilliancy
of its surface, and '.he re fore really enhances
its value. In former times the diamond-cutters
wasted more '.hau half the diamond in
performing their vork; but at the present
time they are more skilful and more careful,
and the loss is comparatively loss, averaging
from forty to fifty per cent. The "spread" of
a gem, or the proportion of its breadth to its
depth, is another item to be carefully con
sidered. HOW DIAMONDS ABE CUT AND roLlSUKI).
The art of cutting and polishing the dia
mond was known in early times throughout
Asia, but was not familiar to the Europeans.
It was introduoed among the latter by a work
man of Bruges, who, in the year i47(!, dis
covered by accident that by rubbing two dia
monds together their surfaces were abraded.
It was also ascertained that the diamond could
be polished by being rubbed with its own
powder. The majority of diamonds are cut
and polished in Amsterdam, though some
lnrire stones have Imn niwinm,! i i...
1 he cutting ot a diamond is a tedious opera
nun, injuum;; Lirui nine ana patience. It
done almost wliollv bv l;in,i ti, ..,.
is
as follows: 1 wo diamonds are used, attache
vo nuuuies. a leaaen model of the dianioi
10 oe cut is taken as a rrni,l. T
stones are then rubbed smartly together
w. uuni ui iwwuer is collected i
a metal box. This dust is mixed with ve-t
ble oil, and is used to polish the gem, upon
revolving cast iron AW t- pi, j...
tJ . 10 ruuiug 10 UUllO
by means of a steel wire covered with diamond
uuBi, ui sometimes by a ch . ! -"id hammer,
though in the latter case c . u-e must be
taken lest the goni be broken. The cleavage-
i-iaiieu assisi materially In the cutting. Th
diamond may be cut or Bet in three forms,
Called ihu )rilliiint , 3 1, il,ln
- - "nuiib, nio unu, aim tut, lauin
The brilliant is the form most preferred, though
v ouim me mohi material, as n develops
brilliancy of the diamond to the greatebt'
the
do
gree. Tho brilliant is cut in the shape of two
pyramids, with a single base. In tho cutting.
the upper sides and corners aro called bezel
the name collet is given to a.small plane at
the bottom. Tho top is styled the crown; the
facets aro triangular spaces and faces; the table
is a plane on top; then there are guides, ribs,
lozenges, pavilions, etc.
llie brilliant is composed of a face or table.
surrounded by facets, which is all that is
visible above the bezel when set. The stone
in depth below tlio bezel should equal half its
breadth. On tho under Hide it terminates in
a small table, connected with the upper sur-
iace ny eiongatea iacets.
lho rose is Hat below, and cut with face! s
over the upper surface a sort of half poly
hedron resting on the plane. It is a pretty'
ligure.
J lie tablo Is an appropriate form for thin
stones with large surfaces. It is cut at tho
edges into facets.
The lasques are flat stones.
TESTS.
In tho trade it often happens that colorless
topazes, emeralds, sapphires, and white zir
cons are palmed oil tor diamonds. Jt is otten
a matter of great difficulty to detect a real
diamond trom another stone, or from an imi
tation. There are various tests for the dia
mond. Thus the diamond will merely refract
rays ol light which will pass through other
perns. Mectrie tests can be instituted between
diamonds and other stones. The specific
gravity of the diamond is another test. Then
its color. Tho peculiar brilliancy of the dia
mond when cut is another excellent test; but
we would advise all who desire to purchase
d amonds to visit the experts connected
with tho leading jewelry-houses, who
make diamonds a study, and who
claim that, having once seen a dia
mond, they never forget it, and can always re
cognize it, no matter what changes may have
taken place in tho cutting or setting. Flaws
olten exist in genuine diamonds, and these
flaws are not seldom difficult to discover. To
detect a flaw, breathe on tho surface of the
stone. This will dimish the lustre of the gem,
and the flaw will bo rendered apparent. Dia
monds "oil" color," as they are termed, are
very faulty, though very common, sometimes
one-halt the stone is genuine, the other half
being an imitation. These "doublets" or
"semi-stones" are common and very deceitful.
Sometimes colored matter is placed in the set
ting, to give the desired hue to the gem.
STANDARD OP VALUE.
There is an arbitrary rule, which has been
extensively followed, to determine the value
of a diamond. The gem is measured by carats
(equaling four grains), these grains differing,
however, from Troy grains, five of the one
equalling four of the other and the rule is,
multiply the square of the weight in carat by
certain sums, varying according to the stone,
its manner of cutting, etc. Tho rule now
seems to be, if a diamond of 1 carat is worth
$100, a two-carat diamond will be worth 2x2
times that sum, or $400; a three-carat 3x3
that sum, or 900, and so on. This rule applies,
however, only semi-occasionally. With all
the really valuable gems, the universal custom
is for the seller to ask as much as he thinks
the buyer will by any possibility pay. After
all, diamonds, like oilier commodities, regu
late themselves. Large gems are more valua
ble hi proportion than small ones; but, on the
other ban i, small gems are by far the most
likely to find purchasers. The carat is divided
into sixty-four parts, so as to express all lhe
variations of weight, which, in so precious a
substance as the diamond, are matters of great
moment.
In the United States, before the war, the
following table was published of the value of
diamonds:
Per Carat.
One-cnrat stone $s. lo $100
Three-quurler carut stoue 70 to 80
Alellc or mixed stone oo to 00
Two-carui Mone 'M0 to 100
Three-rnrni stone is O to (iUO
Four-carat stone 'JOOto 1000
But these prices havo been greatly increased
of late years; and the general rule of value
seems to be to ask whatever one is likely to
get.
All sorts of prices have been paid for dia
monds. Some time since, a stone of Gl carats
sold for 33,(i00, while a larger stone has sold
for less. Different prices have been asked and
paid for the same stone at different periods;
but, as a rule, though tho exact market price
of a diamond may vary, yet it always has a
certain ratio of genuine value.
Diamonds, too, are affected in value by their
history and associations. In a catalogue of a
recent collection, we observed the following:
1. Drop-shaped brilliants, 49 grains, for
merly belonging to Louis XVI.
2. Brilliant drops, 1U0J grains, formerly be
longing to Marie Antoinette.
3. Rose diamonds, G3 grains, formerly be
longing to Sultan Sclim.
4. Brilliant drops, 100J grains, formerly be
longing to Joseph Bonaparte.
Who will deny that the value of gems thus
historically associated with terrible memories
is vastly in excess of their mere worth as sin
gle stones
MISCELLANEOUS USES.
Diamonds have a commercial and utilitarian
value outside of their character as jewels.
The rougher varieties of diamonds are used
for miscellaneous purposes, and are called by
the technical term "tort." Diamond-powder
is extensively employed by lapidaries and
gem-engravers: also, for etching-points. Tho
point of a diamond is used by glaziers for the
cutting of glass. Only the point of a natural
crystal can be used for this purpose.
IMITATIONS.
The enormous value of the diamond has, of
course, stimulated attempts to imitate it, and
these attempts aro oftentimes very successful.
The French have been especially successful
in this line. Mons. Bourquiguou has become
celebrated as a manufacturer of imitation dia
monds. He obtained his sand from Foutaine
bleau. Set in gold, these imitations look ab
solutely as magnificent as the genuine gem.
They, however, lose hardness and grow dull
in time. The material used for imitating dia
monds is a composition known as stress a
white glass-like Stuff, embracing sand ; P"
borax, red-lead, and arsenic. The groans
are said to be successful in tl
imitations. There are also stones tmu
Cape May a nd C?hntroduced into the
imitations have t" uire9 gome expe
XcSiSaSeen the true and
the false in gems. Qso
, , rH the best judges of dia-
bB Id a friend in our hearing the
m?Ud Av and doubtless there was much
?thth iu ythis remark. Many diamonds fall
Jr fhir possession (at least temporarily)
Ji the vearT The diamond is such a "con
during the y (i o porUble and
Ven.,able that its suitability in this respect
Tas often been tested by its owners. There
ire brokers, too, who make loaning upon dia
monds one of their specialties. tamblers
when they experience a run of ill-luck, find
Uie diamond a good friend in need wherewith
MARCH 19, 16. 7.
to raise the wind, and many of our rich
men, or pseudo rii.li, hrn found the same
truth verified in their experience during
Wall street fluctuations. We nave a friend
who possesses a diamond ling valued at $1500.
This ling, like Bella in the "Mutual Friend,"
is subject to a series of "disappearances,"
which are always accompanied by the pre
sence of a largo amount of greenbacks and a
tendency to a violation of the Excise law.
When the ring is on the linger again, the
owner is sober, and not "flush" a changed
man, in fact, till his ring disappears again.
And these phenomena aro presented every
few months at the least.
A large portion of the business of the lead
ing jewellers of this city lies in the receiving
of diamonds from their owners on deposit,
the owners paying a certain price per month
or year for their storage and protection.
Diamonds are also loaned to great parties on
great occasions. We see them awhile in tho
possession of privato parties, and then agaiu
behold them in the jeweller's case
In our inane nf To mnrrow we will give an extensive
JJ.il of the I'rineipal lHamonds and their wearers
residing in Mew York and liruoktyn.
INSURANCE COMPANIES.
DELAWARE MUTUAL SAFETY IXSU
li A JN l K ( I'M I'aNV, Incorporated by the Legis
lature of 1'euuuylvHUia, 1KI.
OOlce, 8, E. Corner Til I HI) nnd WALJJTJT Streets,
PlillmU-tpIilH.
M AKIN K lMUKANCKS
on vessels, caro, and freikln. i all pnrtaol the world.
ISLAND IN.sUltANiJKH
on pood by river; cauul, luke, aud laud carriage, to
nil nuns ol the I'll ion.
F VlUK INSURANCES
cn mprrhnndlne pner?l'vi
Ou Korea, Dwelling Houses, KiC
ASSETS OF THH, COMPANY,
November 1. lxw.
llOO.noo United Klalesa 1'er Com. Loan,
1S71 -
126,000 United blates 6 Per Cent. Loan
lusi
200,000 United Slates 7 8-10 Per Cent,
Loan, Treasury Notes
125,000 CHy ol Philadelphia bix PerC'euu
Loan (exeniptH)
64,000 htate of Pennsylvania Blx l'er
Cent. Loan
6,000 State of Peiiimylvaulu Five Per
Cent, Loan
60,000 fcitale of Jew Jersey Six Per
Cent. Loan
20,000 Pennsylvania Kill I road. 1st
MoitKHtie. six Per Cent. Honds.
25,000 Pennsylvania Kallroad, 2d Mori-
U4,0O0-00
lae.eootx)
211,500-00
126,562-60
M,700'00
44,620-00
60,750-00
20,500-00
24,200-00
20.760-00
18.000-00
6,040-00
15,000-00
8,258-25
8,950-00
cane Six Per. Cent, Homls..
25,00 Western Pennsylvania Kailtoad
fclx l'er Cent, llondu (Pennsyl
vania Kallroad iruaranteeH)
80,000 Stateol Tennessee Five Per Cent,
Loan
7,000 State of Tennessee blx Per Ceut,
Loan
15,000 3i i0 Shares Slock of C.erniaulown
Has Company (principal and In
terest guaranteed by the city of
Philadelphia)
7,150 14K Shares Slock ot Pennsylva
nia Kallroad Company
6,000 Khj Shares stork ot North Penn
sylvania Kallroad Company-....
20,000 SO Shares Sli ck ot Philadelphia
and Southern Mail Steamship
Company-
195,900 Loans on llonds and Mortgago,
1st Liens on City Properly
28,000-00
1&5.9O000
1,045,050 par. Market value. tl,070SU-75
Cost, 11,030,&M-Oo.
Eeal Estate 86,000-00
Bills receivable lor insurances
made 27,637-20
jjiuaiH'O one at agencies. 1're
mlunis ou M ariue Policies, Ac
crued interest, and other
debts due lo the Company 88,92.3' 90
scrip anu stock ol sundry insu
rance and other Companies.
(5.17H. Lbllmaled value 2,93000
: Cash In Bank tdlM'K"-6
Cash in Drawer 447-14
41.540-00
$1,407,321-56
This being a netf enterprise, the Par is assumed
as me uiaraei vaiue.
Thomas C Hand.
Samuel E. Stokes,
Henry Sloan,
William U. iloulton,
Edward Darlington,
11. Jones Brooke,
Edward Lalourcade,
Jacob P. Jones,
James U. Mctarland,
Joshua P. Eyre,
Silencer Mcllvalne.
John C. Davis,
Edmund A. Suuder,
Theophllus Paulding,
John K. Penrose,
James Trarjualr,
Henry C. Dallelt, Jr.,
James C. Hand,
'William C. Ludwlg,
Joseph 11. Seal,
Ceortce U. Leiper,
Hugh CralR.
John I). Taylor,
J. it. Seiuple, PHUburg,
jv. x. jier&er,
D. T. Morvan,
Jacob Jiiegei
Georue W. hernardnn.
THOMAS C. HAND. President.
JOHN C. DA Via, Vice-President.
Henry Ltlbuun, Secretary. 1 8 1
"DROVIDENT LIFE AND TRUST COMPANY
1 UJJ i-illliAJJU.ljt'lllA,
No. Ill South FOUKTH Street.
INCOKPOKATKD 3d MONTH, !d., 1S65.
CAPITAL, I150.000, PAID IN.
Insurance on Lives, by Yearly premiums; or by
111 ... Hi l uur I'rfintliniA. Nnii.liiriuiin.a
knuowmenla. nayable at a lulure aire, or on nrlnr
decease by Yearly Premiums, or 10 year. Premiums
DOtn classes xtou-iouenure.
Annuities granted on lavorable terms
Term pollutes. Children's Endowments,
This Cum tianv. while Hiving the iusured thesernrttv
of a puiu-up Capital, will divide the entire proUuj of
uie x.iie uusiiiesb auiuugiiti jrouuy uuiuers.
Moneys received at interest, and uaid ou demand.
Authorized by charier to execute Trusts, and to act
as Executor or Administrator. Assignee or Guardian.
and in other fiduciary capacities, under appointment
oi any t;ouri oi huh iommouweanu, or any person.
or persons, or uuuies pontic or corporate.
PAMUEL R. PHIPLEY,
Ill KH.CTUK M.
tl L'Vll V TT A ivira
jtenuA n. juunnia.
KICHAKD WOOD,
1UCH AP.D CADBURY.
T. WlsTAKKKOWN',
WM. V. LONdSTKETH,
WILLIAM U-A.VK.hAi,
CHARLES E. COFFIN.
SAMUEL R. BHIPLEY, ROWLAND PARRY,
President. Actuary,
THOMA8.W1STAR, M. D.. J. B. TOWNSEND,
7 27 j Medical Examiner. Legal Adviser,
INSURANCE COMPANY
OF
NORTH AMERICA.
OFFICE. NO. 232 WALKUX BT., PHILADELPHIA
1KCOKPORATED 1784. CHAR1EB PERPETUAL.
CAPITAL, 5t0,0
Astets, January 8, 1667, $1,763,26733.
1HSUKS UABUNK,
ISLAND TRANSPORTATION and FIRE BISKS
DUIKCTOBS.
ArtburO. Coflla,
Samuel W. Jones,
John A. Rrown,
Charles 'iaylor.
Anitiroe W blie,
hicliurd P. Wood,
Yt illlnui Welsh,
H SI on Is Wain,
Deorge L. Harrison,
li'mru'la H. 1!iiiia.
Ltiward H. '1 rotter,
Edward H. Clarke,
W'lblam CunimiOKS,
T. Chariton Henry,
Alircd L. Jrsaup.,
John P. White,
Louis C Madeira
B G. COPFlii, President.
WILLIAM Ul'lliI.kK. Harruburff, Pa., Central
AytDi iur the State ol PennslVBUla.
FIRE INSURANCE KXCLL'SIVFXY. Till
PENNSYLVANIA FIRE INSURANCE COM
PAN Y Incorporated 1H25 Charter Perpetual No,
bio WALK CT Street, opposite Independence Square.
This Company, favorably kuown to the community
for over forty years, continues to insure against loss or
damage by lire on Public or Private Buildings, either
permanently or for a limited time. Also,on Furniture,
blocks of Uoods, and Merchandise generally, on liberal
terms. '
Their Capital, together with a large Surplus Pnnd.to
Invested In the most careful manner, which enables,
them to oiler lo the Insured an undoubted security la
the case of loss.
Daniel Smith. Jr..
JMUKlTOJts.
John Deverenz,
Thomas smith,
Henry Lewis,
J. Olllinifham Fell.
Alexander Benson,
Isaac Ha.lehurst.
Thomas Robblns,
ijaniei iiauuotTK, jr.
DANIEL SM ITU, Jb., President,
William G. Chowkll, Secretary soj
MUTUAL FIRE INSURANCE COMPANY,
OF PHILADELPHIA.
OFFICK, NO. 5 8. FIFTH STREET,
AftfcETN - 1S6,21089.
CHARTER PERPETUAL.
MUTUAL SYSTEM EXCLUSIVELY.
DIRECTORa Ott 1SS7.
Caleb Clothier,
Benjamin W alone,
Thomas Mather.
T. EUwood Chapman,
b.ttt...i Uutlaek.
William P. Reeder, .
Joseph Chapman,
Edward M. Needles,
Wilson M. Jenkins,
LUkent Webster, I
Vmnrla T. A I tr t nu,.
Aaron W. Gasklll
f 4LKB CLOTHIER. President.
BENJAMIN MALONE, Vloe-President.
THOMAS WATHER, Treasurer.
X, ELLWOOD CtUAPMAN, beoietary. 28 in
1
INSURANCE COMPANIES.
1 829-C1IAIlTPfc PERPETUAL.
Franklin Fire Insurance Co.
OF I'll 1 LA DELPHI A.
OFFICK:
0. 435 AM 437 ClfEKNVT STREET.
ASKETM ON JANUARY 1, 1S67,
M,933,l 10-13.
(top"'
4no,nnnoo
,... w,7i:m
1,206.4.12-10
INCOMK FOR 1866,
1325.(100,
Accriipu m pius
I'rt'iiiluiiiB
UNbETTLKD CLAIMS.
17,41-18
PAID SINCE 1880 OVER
95,500,000.
Perpetual and Temporary Policies on Liberal Term
DIRECTORS.
Charles N. Bancker,
Tobias Wanner,
Samuel (Jrant
deorgn W. Richards,
Oeorjse Fale,
Allred Mtler,
Francis W. Lewis, U. D.
Peter McC'all,
Thomas Sparks.
Isaac Lea,
CHARLES N. BANCKKR. President
(iKoHliK KALKs. Vice-President.
Z3. W. McALLlsTER. secretary pro tern. 1318U231J
BROOKLYN
I.1F12 1KSUKAAXE COMPANY
Ol1 NEW YOJRK.
MUTUAL,
CAPITAL,, S125.000-PAID VP.
AC'COSI C1.ATION, 9300,000.
Cash Dividend in 1807, Forty
ler 1 cut.
CHRISTIAN W. BOUCK, President.
RICHARD II. HARDING, Secretary.
Parties desiring full Information will call on E'
BRA INARD COLTON, General Agent (or Pennsylva
nia and Southern New Jersey, No. 113 B. EIFTII
Street, Philadelphia, Fft.
PHILADELPHIA BEFEBESIES,
Morton McMichael, Mayor.
A. B. Cooler & Co., No. 214 Delaware avenoev
Wm. II. Gaumer, President Camden A Amboy R. K,
James itoss buowaen, late .Director aiiuu ivza ly
A. G. B, H Inkle, M. D., Medical Examiner.
A FEW GOOD SOLICITORS WANTED FOR THE
CITY I) I'lllLAOfiLl'lUA,
NLORTII AMERICAN TRANSIT
IAsl'KAKIG COMPANY,
NO. 33 S. FOIUTH KTBEET,
PHILADELPHIA.
Annual Policies Issued atcainst Ueneral Accident
Of all descriptions at exceedingly low rates.
Insurance etiecied lor one year. In any sum from
flue lo (lo.uoo, at a premium ot only one-half per cent,,
securing lhe lull amount Insured In case of death, and
a compensation each week equal to the whole pro.
mlum puid.
Short lime Ticket for 1, 2, 8. 5, 7, or 10 days, or 1,1
or months, at in cents a day, insuring In the sum of
.t(Xio, or giving 16 per week if disabled, to be had at
the General Ottice. No. m S. FOURTH Street, Phila
delphia, or at the vartouB Railroad Ticket otllces. Be
sure to purchase the tickets of the North American
Transit Insurance Company.
For circulars and further information apply at the
General OOice, or of any of the authorised Agenujuf
theC0inpany.wi3 ,IOTJpT Prefl,denU
JAMES M. CONRAD, Treasurer.
HENKY C. BROWN, Secretary.
JOHN C BULLITT, Solicitor.
DIRECTORS.
L. L. Eoupt, late of Pennsylvania Railroad Coot
pauy.
J.K. KIngsley, Continental Hotel.
Suuiuel C. Palmer, Cashier of Com. National Bank
H. U, Lelsenrmg. New. 'at and Dock street.
James M. Conrad, firm of Conrad & Walton, No.
Market street.
Enoch Lewis, late Gen. Superintendent Peuna. R.R.
Andrew Mehalley, b. W. corner ol Third and Wal
nut streets.
O. C. Erancisctis, Gen. Agent Penna, R, R. Co.
Thomas K. Peterson. No. 3i(6 Market street.
W. W. Kurtz, hrniof Kuril fe Howard, No. 258,
Third street. 131y
PIICLNIX INSURANCE COMPANY Off
PHILADELPHIA.
LNCOP.PORATED 1 SM C1I A RTER PERPETUAL,
No. '&4 WALNUT Street, opposite the Exchange.
In addition to MARINE and INLAND INSUR
ANCE, this Company Insures from loss or damage by
FIRE for liberal terms on buildings, merchandise,
lurniiure, etc, for limited periods, and permanently
ou buildings, by deposit ot premium.
The Company has been In active operation for more
than SIXTY YEARS. during whlcu all losses have
been promptly adjusted and paid.
John L. Hodge,
JIHJ!.l'XUHS.
Lawrence Lewis, Jr.
W. B. Mahouy
John T. Lewis,
William S. Grant,
Robert W. Learning,
1). Clark Wbarlou
Samuel Wilcox,
jjaviu xewis,
Benjamin Kiting,
Thomas II. Powers,
A. R. McIIenry,
Edmund Castlllon,
Louis ('. Is orris.
JUJII
vVTJCHERER, President.
Samttki. Wilcox, Secretary.
FIRE AND BURGLAR PROOFSAFES
piRE-PROOF SAFES.
1 MARVIN'S PATENT
A II E THE B E S X.
ALWAYS IIKl I'BOOr.
ALWAYS D3Ti
MOBILE TENT.
Febbdabv 13, Wl,
"Our Marvin's Patent Safe, a No. 8, double-ioor,
stood the severest test In the large fire of Satdrday
night. It fell from the second floor, and was exjosed
to an INTENSE HEAT, FANNED BY A BflFF
NORTH WIND. The exterior Iron framework
melted in several places, yet the Inside is not tWued.
We were pleased ou opening It to find every thin
ALL RIGHT. We have every confidence hj the
Flre-Prool Safes made by Marvin & Co.
"WHITFIELD A BILLIM."
EXAMINE BEFORE PURCHASING IL8K.
WHERE.
MARVIN & CO.
No. 721 CHESTNUT St., (Masonic Eall.)
Aud No. 265 BROADWAY, New York.
.House Safes, for Plale aud Jewelry
Baukers' Steel Chests.
Second-band Safes of all makers.
Sales exchanged on liberal terms. 2 23 stutZia
bates, Machinery, etc., moved aud hoisted. '
SEND FOR ILLUSTRATED CATALOUOC.
s
AI,K OF OLIl AND UNBEHVICABLE
ARTICLES OF ORDNANCE. T
Bureau of
N'aW 1
p Ordnance, )
Da'PAKTMKNTV
TV, March li, 157. )
V"A.HHTlWf'T.,r I'lTV
There will ba Kohl , .,nMi,.ui,..iii,ii ij. t.iu inch
est bidder at uoou, THURSDAY, the Uh day
of April, m7, at the otlloe of tho Inspector of
Ordnance, Navy Yard. Philadelphia. Pen mylva
nla, a lot of old aud unserviceable articles of
Urdnance, embracing Shot and HUell.aboulsevea
nuudred (70U) Uurbiueti, hreeoh loaders, about
twenty-five hundred (ir00) Muskets, rllitd an
S'noolu bore, Ouu Carriages and other Store,
lhe articles will be sold In lots. I
Terms, one-half cash In Uov.-rumnnt rand-,
to be dctXMdteil nn f.lia ominlumon of Uu) sale.
and the remainder within ten days aftervards,
during which time the anliolestnnstb restored
irom the yard, ether wis they wm revert to iu
Government H. A. WJ8E,
3181A11 . Chiel of BuieaU,