Note 193 — MINERALS. (continued 5)
Reading edition
Fibrous Gypsum.—There is a variety of gypsum which has a somewhat fibrous appearance, and which, when cut in a convex form, and polished, reflects a light not much unlike that of the cats-eye (86). Hence it is sometimes sold to ignorant persons for that stone. It has also been imposed upon purchasers for the gem called moonstone (113). Fibrous gypsum is cut into ear-pendants, crosses, beads for necklaces, and other female ornaments; but its softness is such as to 119allow of its being easily injured both by dirt and friction.