gems, history of gemology, gem prices

This volume calendars royal letters patent from the final years of Henry III’s reign, documenting appointments, grants, pardons, protections and financial transactions. Entries concerning gemstones and jewelry reveal how royal treasures served as security for loans and were sold to meet urgent expenses. In 1267, the papal legate sold seven balas rubies and one small clouded ruby for 500 marks. Other records authorize the pledging of treasures held at Westminster, including objects assigned to St. Edward’s shrine, while reserving the regalia. A detailed 1268 entry describes clasps set with rubies, emeralds, sapphires, pearls, garnets and a cameo, recording weights and some valuations. Further notices concern recovering jewels pawned overseas. These documents provide evidence for medieval gemstone terminology, jewelry design, valuation and the movement of precious objects through royal and mercantile finance.