The apogee of Minoan gem engraving occurred during the time of the second palaces, between about 1600 and 1450 B.C., when semiprecious stones such as agate were engraved with consummately rendered figural subjects, particularly animals. <a href="http://www.metmuseum.orgEric">http://www.metmuseum.orgEric</a> Olijdam, 2008, A possible central Asian origin for the seal-impressed jar from the 'Temple Tower' at Failaka, in: E. Olijdam & RH Spo