Il nuovo lume delle gioie
Opera utilissima ad'ogni persona, così a orefici, e speciali, per l'arte pratico.
"Il nuovo lume delle gioie" by Pietro Caliari is a practical treatise on gemstones and jewelry-making written in the late 17th century. The work is structured into several treatises that delve into the nature and quality of various precious stones like pearls, diamonds, and sapphires, providing insights valuable for jewelers and traders in the field. The author, a jeweler for the Duke of Mantua, aims to enlighten readers about the qualities, classification, and practical aspects of these gemstones, presenting both technical knowledge and personal observations. At the start of the text, Caliari introduces the purpose of his treatise, which is to illuminate the understanding of gems for jewelers and enthusiasts alike. He outlines the structure of the work, detailing that it will discuss four main types of joys—precious stones, softer stones, more material joys, and minerals. The opening discusses the nature of oriental and western pearls, drawing distinctions between their qualities and how they should be evaluated. The subsequent sections promise to unpack a wealth of knowledge about other gems, celebrating their aesthetic and intrinsic values while also providing practical buying tips for prospective jewelers and collectors.