Originally published in 1885, this work covers details of classical ornamentation of precious and not so precious stones, including rings, signets, cylinder seals, brooches, and other objects in everyday, business and ceremonial use. The author is particularly concerned with the language and symbolism of the decoration. This erudite text covers the history of Western intaglio gems from antiquity to the Renaissance with emphasis on ancient Greek and Roman gems. The second half of the work includes an analysis of copper plate and woodcut engravings concerning ancient artists.