Overview

A reference guide to gems, semi-precious stones and crystals. Gemstones and crystals are used for jewelry, industry, lasers and precision technology. Firefly Guide to Gems is a practical, compact guide to the identification and use of precious and semi-precious stones, novelty stones, agates and crystals. An introduction explains geology, chemistry and gemstone properties in clear and accessible terms. Key aspects of gemstones are explained such as crystal structures and optical and physical properties. The first section of the book focuses on precious gems in their many forms, with illustrations of priceless jewelry. Practical information includes: Fashioning and cutting Types and shapes of cut Collecting Handling and storing gemstones Weighing and measuring stones The second and main section supplies complete descriptions of a wide range of gems, organized by chemical composition, for instance: Carbon (diamond) Aluminum oxide (saphire and ruby) Phosphate (turquoise) Silica (opal) A fascinating profile of each gem is accompanied with color photographs of the raw crystal, common cuts, and finally polished for use in jewelry. At-a-glance charts provide technical details such as refractive index, crystal group, luster, hardness and cleavage for each gem. Easy-to-read and abundantly illustrated, Firefly Guide to Gems is ideal for collectors and rockhounds.

Full Product Details

9781552978146

Table of Contents

Reviews

This expert knows his material expertly and provides an intriguing and colorful look at the world of gemstones... a gem of a guide.--Lynn C. Westney E-Streams (07/01/2004)

Makes the grade... a clear introduction to the classification of rocks and basic crystal structure... excellent section of gem descriptions. -- Cary Seidman National Science Teachers Association Recommends (05/12/2004)

This book is so informative, so inclusive, and so beautifully designed that it should find a place in every high school library.--Rayna Patton VOYA (06/01/2004) A little gem in itself, this guide is rich in information... A valuable reference guide.-- (05/15/2004) This expert knows his material expertly and provides an intriguing and colorful look at the world of gemstones... a gem of a guide.-- (07/01/2004) Makes the grade... a clear introduction to the classification of rocks and basic crystal structure... excellent section of gem descriptions.-- (05/12/2004) Small but informative, handsome, and richly illustrated book... well-written and well-illustrated... highly recommended.-- (07/01/2004) Concise but thorough... a wealth of information... outstanding color photographs, computer graphics, diagrams, and charts.-- (06/01/2004)

This book is so informative, so inclusive, and so beautifully designed that it should find a place in every high school library.--Rayna Patton VOYA (06/01/2004) A little gem in itself, this guide is rich in information... A valuable reference guide.-- (05/15/2004) Small but informative, handsome, and richly illustrated book... well-written and well-illustrated... highly recommended.-- (07/01/2004) This expert knows his material expertly and provides an intriguing and colorful look at the world of gemstones... a gem of a guide.-- (07/01/2004) Makes the grade... a clear introduction to the classification of rocks and basic crystal structure... excellent section of gem descriptions.-- (05/12/2004) Concise but thorough... a wealth of information... outstanding color photographs, computer graphics, diagrams, and charts.-- (06/01/2004)

This book is so informative, so inclusive, and so beautifully designed that it should find a place in every high school library.--Rayna Patton VOYA (06/01/2004) A little gem in itself, this guide is rich in information... A valuable reference guide.-- (05/15/2004) Makes the grade... a clear introduction to the classification of rocks and basic crystal structure... excellent section of gem descriptions.-- (05/12/2004) Small but informative, handsome, and richly illustrated book... well-written and well-illustrated... highly recommended.-- (07/01/2004) Concise but thorough... a wealth of information... outstanding color photographs, computer graphics, diagrams, and charts.-- (06/01/2004) This expert knows his material expertly and provides an intriguing and colorful look at the world of gemstones... a gem of a guide.-- (07/01/2004)

Author Information

The author is Research Officer for the Geological Society and a highly respected gemmologist.

Tab Content 6

Customer Reviews

Recent Reviews

Countries Available