The perfect pocket-sized companion for those travelling and thinking about purchasing jewellery or stones. Renee Newman, author of the highly respected gem and jewellery guides including 'Diamond Ring Buying Guide' and 'Gold and Platinum Jewelry Buying Guide', has written a concise buying guide covering gems, gold and platinum that's a perfect handy reference. Here is important information on how to select jewellers and appraisers; a chapter on notable gem sources and which countries are noted for specific gems; information on coral, ivory and amber; precautions one must take when buying from an unfamiliar source; and customs regulations, duties and how to use lab reports. This guide will become an indispensable resource that will be used time and time again.

Prepare to be dazzled by this shining and sumptuous visual guide to the world's greatest treasures. Feast your eyes on glittering gemstones, kaleidoscopic minerals, and famous trinkets in this comprehensive exploration of Earth's finest jewels. Following a foreword from Aja Raden, hundreds of pages take a lavish look at precious stones, precious metals, and organic gems in all their natural wonder. From agate to zoisite, everything under the Sun is encapsulated in spectacular photography and accessible text. Trace the history of gemmology and get the inside story on our planet's most famous and fabulous gems, including the mysterious Hope Diamond, the stunning Koh-i-Noor of the Crown Jewels, and exquisite Fabergé eggs. Find out their physical properties, check the price tags, and discover the most remarkable record-breakers. This exceptionally extravagant book is a picture-packed, fact-filled celebration guaranteed to bring sparkle to your life and your library.

A guide to the identification, structure, and uses of precious and semi-precious stones, novelty stones, agates, and crystals.

Gives pointers on how to buy gemstones, with advice on price comparison, quality evaluation, fake stones, gem treatments, and gem cleaning and care.

Learn the essentials of Asian gemstones with this useful and portable reference book. Gemstones, both mythical and real, are deeply embedded in the arts, religions and cultures of Asia. This handy pocket guide provides an excellent introduction to the full range of superb gemstones mined and processed in the region, their physical characteristics, historical importance and countries of origin. Stunning color photographs and informative text by noted writer on gemstones Carol Clark, will delight both gem collectors and lovers of fine jewelry alike. Periplus Handy Pocket Guides are practical field guides, useful for identifying various natural objects ranging from plants and animals to gemstones and seashells. Each page of each title throughout the series is filled with clear, precise photographs and informative text. Scientific and local language names are given.