Isidore Kozminsky

Born in Mortlake, Victoria, on October 25, 1870, Isidore Israel Kozminsky grew up in a well-known jewellery family and later became a Melbourne dealer in jewellery, antiques, and collectibles. He also edited The Antiquarian Gazette, showing how closely his writing was tied to the world of objects, history, and trade.

Kozminsky is best remembered as an occult and esoteric writer. His books include Numbers: Their Meaning and Magic, The Magic and Science of Jewels and Stones, and works on zodiacal symbolism, dreams, and prophecy. What makes him interesting is the way he mixed hands-on knowledge of gems and antiquities with a strong interest in numerology, astrology, and other mystical traditions.

In 1935, Australian newspapers reported that he was traveling to London to arrange publication of several books. He died in 1940. Today he is mainly read for his unusual combination of jeweller, collector, and occult author—a voice from a period when popular writing about symbols, fate, and precious stones had a special appeal.