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CHAP. 59.—gypsum.

Gypsum1 has a close affinity with limestone, and there are numerous varieties of it. One kind is prepared from a calcined2 stone, as in Syria, and at Thurii, for example. In Cyprus and at Perrhæbia,3 gypsum is dug out of the earth, and at Tymphæ4 it is found just below the level of the soil. The stone that is calcined for this purpose, ought to be very similar to alabastrites,5 or else of a grain like that of marble. In Syria, they select the hardest stones for the purpose, and calcine them with cow-dung, to accelerate the process. Experience has proved, however, that the best plaster of all is that prepared from specular-stone,6 or any other stone that is similarly laminated. Gypsum, when moistened, must be used immediately, as it hardens with the greatest rapidity; it admits, however, of being triturated over again, and so reduced to powder. It is very useful for pargetting, and has a pleasing effect when used for ornamental figures and wreaths in buildings.

There is one remarkable fact connected with this substance; Caius Proculeius,7 an intimate friend of the Emperor Augustus, suffering from violent pains in the stomach, swallowed gypsum, and so put an end to his existence.8

1 The name now given to Sulphate of lime, including the varieties of Alabaster and Selenite. Plaster of Paris is prepared from it.

2 The method of preparing plaster of Paris.

3 See B. iv. c. 3.

4 See B. iv. c. 3.

5 The same thing, strictly speaking. See Chapter 12 of this Book.

6 See Chapter 45 of this Book.

7 See B. vii. c. 46.

8 Dioscorides says, B. v. c. 134, that, taken internally, it produces suffocation.

The Natural History. Pliny the Elder. John Bostock, M.D., F.R.S. H.T. Riley, Esq., B.A. London. Taylor and Francis, Red Lion Court, Fleet Street. 1855.

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    • Harper's, Sigillum
    • A Dictionary of Greek and Roman Antiquities (1890), AM´PHORA
    • A Dictionary of Greek and Roman Antiquities (1890), CADUS
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