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Sourindro Mohun Tagore, Mani-Málá, or a Treatise on Gems, printed by I. C. Bose & Co., Stanhope Press, Calcutta and published by the author, 1879-81, first edition

(In 2 Volumes)
Volume I: [22] iv [2] 1-506 pages, letterpress English title-page, additional decorative title-page, 9 wood-engraved plates with 48 illustrations of famous diamonds, frontispiece and last page supplied in facsimile, 1879
Volume II: decorated title-page supplied in facsimile, letterpress English title-page [12] xiv, ii, 509-1046 pages, 1881
Modern half-leather bound with gilt text to the spine and 4 raised bands (each)
9.5 x 6.25 x 2 in (24 x 16 x 5 cm) (each)

From the Estate of Sourindro Mohun Tagore.

Sourindro Mohun Tagore's book "Mani Mala or a Treatise on Gems" was first published in 1879 by the author himself in Calcutta. The book was printed by I. C. Bose & Co. at the Stanhope Press in Calcutta and was released in two volumes.

"Mani Mala" is a treatise on gemstones and their properties, with an emphasis on their use in traditional Indian medicine and astrology. The book provides detailed information on a wide range of gemstones, including their physical properties, therapeutic uses, and astrological significance. It is a comprehensive guide to gems, their properties, and their uses in jewelry. It covers a wide range of topics related to gemstones, including their history, sources, qualities, and methods of cutting and polishing. The book also provides information on the various types of jewelry that can be made with gems, such as necklaces, bracelets, and rings.

The first volume of the book contains an introduction to gemstones and their classification, followed by detailed descriptions of various gemstones, such as diamonds, rubies, emeralds, and sapphires. The second volume of the book includes chapters on the use of gemstones in medicine and astrology, as well as sections on the production and trade of gemstones.

One of the unique features of "Mani Mala" is its inclusion of translations of ancient Indian texts on gems, including the "Ratnapariksha" and the "Mani Mala" by Abhinavagupta. These texts provide insights into the traditional Indian beliefs and practices surrounding gems and their use in healing and spiritual practices.

Sourindro Mohun Tagore was a prominent figure in 19th-century India, known for his contributions to various fields such as music, literature, and science. He was also a patron of the arts and sciences and was involved in the establishment of several institutions for the promotion of education and culture in India. He founded the Bengal Music School (1871) and Bengal Academy of Music (1881) and published extensively on music theory. In the early 1880s he set Indian translations of God Save the Queen to popular Indian melodies as national anthems for the Indian Empire.

"Mani Mala" is one of Tagore's lesser-known works, but it is still regarded as an important resource for scholars and enthusiasts of gemology, traditional Indian medicine, and astrology. The book provides valuable insights into the use of gemstones in these fields and sheds light on the rich cultural heritage of India.

Mani-Málá is one of the most rare and collectible of all gem books in existence, with original copies easily fetching over US$15,000 (when they can be found).

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