Carbuncle. A beautiful gem of a deep red color (with a mixture of scarlet), found in the East Indies. When held up tot he sun, it loses its deep tinge, and becomes of the color of a burning coal. The carbuncle of the ancients is believed to have been a garnet. The name is now given also to the ruby sapphire and the red spinel. The ordinary carbuncle is a garnet cut en cabochon.

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“It is most profitable, it is blessed, to be always looking beyond second causes in all our trials and distresses, and to discern the Lord's hand, in infinite love and wisdom, appointing all. For this brings the soul into a state of resignation and tranquility at least, if not of holy Joy.”
–Robert Hawker, Poor Man’s Commentary, Psalm 17