From the book
A Chymical Dictionary
Gerhard Dorn and John French · Diotimos Editions · 2026
Browse this book’s lexicon →Orientation
At a Glance
- The wordCopper identified after treatment that gives it a gold-like colour.
- In the bookMelibæum gives copper without this qualification.
- A place to readThe historical definition below, 1650 dictionary, unnumbered definition page 29; facsimile PDF page 357.
Historical definition
Lato is copper given a golden colour with lapis calaminaris.
Meaning
The definition retains copper as its subject. What changes is its colour, through the named lapis calaminaris. A golden appearance is therefore not presented as proof that the material has become gold. The means named and the effect reported must both remain in the reading.
Use in the book
Melibæum gives copper without this qualification. Comparing the two entries distinguishes the underlying metal-name from a name that incorporates a stated treatment and appearance.
Places to read
Source note
Historical source. 1650 dictionary, unnumbered definition page 29; facsimile PDF page 357 — Facsimile
Sources. A Chymical Dictionary 1650, 1650 dictionary, facsimile PDF page 357, Lato