This striking line-up of gems, minerals, and semi-precious stones recalls the way such specimens were stored in ‘cabinets of curiosities’. Some of the items were prized for their rarity or exotic origin: the Abur stone from Rajasthan at centre left for example, numbered 65, or the green and white jade on the top row, numbered 56. Others were mounted in gold or pierced to be worn as amulets for their magical curative properties.