There are even full treatments of lesser-known gems; a special section on rocks as precious stones; and organic gem materials. Each entry offers complete information on the gemstone's formation, structure, physical properties, and characteristics, along with the best methods of working, cutting, and polishing it. Organic gem materials such as coral, ivory, amber, and pearl are also covered, along with more recently discovered stones like charoite. To think that we can find crystals within the earth with such rich colours leaves me speechless, not to mention the master cutters who can turn a piece of rough crystal into a sparkling jewel full of brilliance and lustre. Field reports, videos, photography, and firsthand accounts from mines and industry hot spots around the world.

For someone completely new to the science, the jargon may be difficult, although Schumann attempts to bypass this issue by providing a brief list at the beginning of the book of terminology that may be unfamiliar. I had the original Gemstones and can thoroughly recommend this reprint with new photos and information on the latest discoveries. With amazing info from why the name and where they are found naturally to Mohs' scale and cleavages there is something for everyone, from shiny new beginner to seasoned collector. Starting a gemstone collection couldn’t be any easier with this ‘Gemstones of the World’ display box. Second UK edition hard back binding in publisher's original pale olive paper covered boards, blocked and lettered gilt back.Great book excellent text on Gem stones together with easy accessible information and beautiful photographs.

Some pieces in this collection are repeatable and some are one offs because I’ve used a single unique gemstone. Physical and chemical properties of each gem or gem group is identified in a header on the top of the left page, followed by notes of interest and specific varieties. By using the Web site, you confirm that you have read, understood, and agreed to be bound by the Terms and Conditions. The text is easily comprehensible to those at least somewhat familiar with the science of gemology, and it does a reasonably good job explaining the concepts for a novice. I have lost count how many times I have been to Thailand on Holiday and this book is a wonderful find if you’re visiting this beautiful country, especially if you would like to purchase gems.Following the spectacular success of the first four editions of Gemstones of the World, the revised fifth edition exhibits important updates and a beautiful new cover. Gemstones in this collection include: Sapphire, tourmaline, garnet, topaz, diamond, pearl, citrine, amethyst, peridot, chrome diopside, tanzanite, Iolite. Lesser-known and rare gems are not neglected, however, and he has compiled a fairly exhaustive list of gemstones, complete with color, hardness, density, refractive index, crystal system, and chemical composition. Finance is provided by PayPal Credit (a trading name of PayPal UK Ltd, Whittaker House, Whittaker Avenue, Richmond-Upon-Thames, Surrey, United Kingdom, TW9 1EH). In addition to the perennially successful Gemstones of the World, first published in 1976, he has authored Collins Guide to Rocks, Minerals, and Gemstones and Handbook of Rocks, Minerals, and Gemstones, among other authoritative rock and mineral identification guides.