Bole Armenia

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This is an earthy mineral found in nearly every part of the world, and has the affix of Armenia, because first brought from that country. It is very friable and varies in color from yellow and brown to red and black, and has a greasy feel. When placed in water it readily absorbs it and, emitting bubbles of air, falls to pieces. Formerly it was much used as a medicine but it has now fallen into disrepute, because the only tonic that there could be in it is due to the presence of oxyd of iron, which is now administered in its pure state. It is also used in Germany as a pigment, and also as a tooth powder.

Scientific American Magazine Vol 13 Issue 14This article was published with the title “Bole Armenia” in Scientific American Magazine Vol. 13 No. 14 (), p. 107
doi:10.1038/scientificamerican12121857-107c

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