Amianthus

Metals minerals and metallic preparations · A Chymical Dictionary

At a Glance

The word. A fire-resistant stone described by comparison and by the name Salamander.

A place to read. The historical definition below, 1650 dictionary, unnumbered definition page 3; facsimile PDF page 331.

Historical Definition

Amianthus is a stone like Alumen plumosum in nature and condition. It is not burnt in fire, and is therefore also called the Salamander.

Meaning

The entry gives two means of recognition: resemblance to Alumen plumosum and resistance to burning. The name Salamander is explained through the latter property. It is therefore a material use of a name that elsewhere can belong to fire-associated beings. The stated reason for the name is more secure here than any assumption that the passage concerns an animal or spirit.

The author’s claim of resistance to fire should be read as part of the historical description. The entry does not supply a mineral analysis or distinguish every material historically included under the name. This edition preserves that limit rather than converting the equation into a modern specimen identification.

Places to Read

Salamandri. Spirits or fiery men associated with residence in fire.

Æthnici. Fire-associated spirits described through visible forms and a mountain habitat.

Historical source: 1650 dictionary, unnumbered definition page 3; facsimile PDF page 331 — Facsimile

Sources. A Chymicall Dictionary (1650), s.v. Amianthus ; compare Salamandri, Æthnici

See also. Salamandri; Æthnici