How to Fake an Emerald in 1653
Historical re-creations reveal the working world of alchemists.
In early modern Europe, gemstones embodied much more than dazzling displays of wealth: they carried special powers. Step into the 17th‑century with gemology historian Claire Litt as she re-creates alchemical recipes for believable fake emeralds.
For more on alchemy and early modern science, visit our Alchemists & Early Scientists page.
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