Description

Gemstones

This compact visual guide is packed with more than 800 vivid full-colour photographs of more than 130 varieties of cut and uncut stones, organic gemstones, and precious metals. With authoritative text, clear photography, and a systematic approach, this concise guide to identification enables you to recognize each gemstone instantly.

Each expertly written entry combines a precise description with annotated photographs to highlight the gemstone’s chief characteristics and distinguishing features. Additional colour illustrations and photographs show uncut stones, colour variations, and a range of popular cuts, while bands on each entry provide at-a-glance facts for quick reference.

Beginners to gem collecting will benefit from the detailed introduction that defines what a gemstone is, explains the physical and optical properties used to identify and classify gemstones, and shows how they have been fashioned and even imitated throughout history. A colour key illustrates the variety of colours found within natural and synthetic gemstones, and a glossary explains the relevant scientific and technical terms.