gems, collection, species, cylinder seals, Near East, Western Asiatic, calcite, gypsum, aragonite, coral, serpentine, chlorite, talc, iron, oxides, hematite, goethite, magnetite, quartz, chalcedony, carnelian, agate, jasper, rock crystal, amethyst, lapis lazuli, green, stone, diorite, amazonite, obsidian, grossular garnet,

Seals can be marks of prestige and protection for their owners, and the subjects they depict provide information for art historians and genealogists alike. Analysis of the stone used can also provide clues to trade routes in operation at particular periods. This book brings together the contributions of twelve distinguished speakers at an international seminar held at the British Museum in 1992; the result is a comprehensive study of seals and sealing practices around the world.