DK Handbooks: Gemstones
by Cally Hall
Category: Nature

The clearest and most straightforward photographic field guide for gems of the world. This compact visual guide 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. 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 range of popular cuts, while color-coded bands provide at-a-glance facts for quick reference. The detailed introduction 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. To help with the initial stages of identification, a color key illustrates the variety of colors found within natural and synthetic gemstones. A concise glossary explains the relevant scientific and technical terms.