This striking line-up of gems, minerals, and semi-precious stones recalls the way such specimens were stored in ‘cabinets of curiosities’. Some of the items were prized for their rarity or exotic origin, such as the Abur stone from Rajasthan at centre left, numbered 65, or the green and white jade on the top row, numbered 56. Others were mounted in gold or silver, or pierced to be worn as amulets.