Trading Gems and Knowing the Earth in Early Modern Eurasia
- Author(s)
- Claire Sabel
- Abstract
Precious stones, like spices, traveled the maritime routes of South and Southeast Asia, serving as symbols of power, wealth, and even medicine. In her essay "Trading Gems and Knowing the Earth in Early Modern Eurasia", Claire Sabel uncovers how the unique geography of gem deposits not only fueled global trade but also sparked the curiosity of scholars and merchants eager to understand the earth’s hidden treasures. From bustling markets to remote mines, the essay reveals how the pursuit of these glittering commodities shaped early modern science, commerce, and imperial ambitions. It’s a story of gems, geopolitics, and the enduring allure of the earth’s most coveted creations.
The essay is published in "The Newsletter", the free academic periodical published by the IIAS (International Institute for Asian Studies).- Organisation(s)
- Department of History
- Publication date
- 10-2025
- Austrian Fields of Science 2012
- 601006 Early history, 601023 Global history
- Portal url
- https://ucrisportal.univie.ac.at/en/publications/1af76133-2946-4190-9f2f-df939ecc76a4