Synopses & Reviews
The clearest recognition guides available The Smithsonian Handbook of Gemstones is packed with more than 800 vivid full-color 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. Photo-Encyclopedic Approach: Each expertly written entry combines a precise description with annotated photographs to highlight the gemstone's chief characteristics and distinguishing features. Additional color illustrations and photographs show uncut stones, color variations, and a wide range of popular cuts. Easy-to-use, color-coded bands provide at-a-glance facts for quick reference. Identification Made Easy: For beginners and established enthusiasts alike, the Smithsonian Handbook of Gemstones explains what a gemstone is, how and where gemstones occur, what natural properties they possess, and how they have been fashioned and imitated through the ages. to help you in the initial stages of identification, a color key illustrates the variety of colors found within natural and synthetic gemstones. A concise glossary explains relevant scientific and technical terms.
Synopsis
Packed with more than 800 vivid full-color photographs of more than 130 varieties of cut and uncut stones, organic gemstones, and precious metals, this concise guide combines its stunning visuals with a systematic approach that enables you to recognize each gemstone instantly. Published by Dorling Kindersley in association with the Smithsonian Institution, the guidebook is beautiful, informative, and accessible to readers of all levels.
Each expertly written entry combines a precise description with annotated photographs to highlight each gemstone's chief characteristics and distinguishing features. Additional color illustrations and photographs show uncut stones, color variations, and a wide range of popular cuts. Easy-to-use, color-coded bands provide at-a-glance facts for quick reference. Also included is a comprehensive glossary.
Written by gem expert, writer, and curator Cally Hall of London's Natural History Museum, and packed with detailed information on gemstone properties, varieties, and more, DK's Smithsonian Handbook of Gemstones is the clearest identification to natural and synthetic gemstones for beginners and established enthusiasts alike.
Synopsis
Learn all there is to know about exquisite and precious gemstones of the world. Gemstones features over 800 incredible images and richly detailed descriptions. Included are more than 130 varieties of cut and uncut stones, organic gemstones, and precious metal. This fact-packed volume holds information on everything from gemstone shapes and their composition to where they occur and how they are fashioned.
With this absolute gem from the DK Handbooks series, you will gain comprehensive insight into the identifying characteristics of different gemstones, their colours, cuts, and hardness levels. Covering radiant gemstones like amber, rubellite, and emeralds, Gemstones is led by careful research, high-quality visuals, and easy-to-understand text.
This indispensable guide is the perfect companion for gemstone lovers and a comprehensive guide for collectors.
Synopsis
Smithsonian Handbooks are the most visually appealing guides on the natural world in the book marketplace. Featuring more than 500 full-color illustrations and photographs, along with detailed annotations, Smithsonian Handbooks make identification easy and accurate.