"There is in them a softer fire than the ruby, there is the brilliant purple of the amethyst, and the sea green of the emerald - all shining together in incredible union. Some by their splendor rival the colors of the painters, others the flame of burning sulphur or of fire quickened by oil."

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Source: Pliny (the Elder.) (1957). “Natural History: An Account by a Roman of what Romans Knew and Did and Valued”

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Pliny the Elder

Naturalist, Author

Pliny the Elder was a Roman author and naturalist, known for his encyclopedic work 'Natural History,' which explores the natural world and human knowledge.

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"The feasant hens of Colchis, which have two ears as it were consisting of feathers, which they will set up and lay down as they list."

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