Standard Catalog of Gem Values
Mineralogist Sinkankas is a long-respected authority on gemology and the author of many books (e.g., Prospecting for Gemstones and Minerals, LJ 3/1/72), while Miller has written about appraising jewelry. Their collaboration results in a comprehensive, updated catalog that features current (1993) retail prices for hundreds of gemstones in both rough and faceted or cabochon forms. Well-written introductory material to each section explains gems, their supply and marketing, and the properties of rough and polished gemstones in language even nonprofessionals will understand, yet without sacrificing details. An unusual offering is the section on rarely discussed carvings, which also gives prices. Readers should not expect a picture of each gem; illustrations are mostly line drawings, which helps make this an affordable reference. Dealers, buyers, consumers, and students will want this book.?Therese D. Baker, Western Kentucky Univ. Libs., Bowling GreenCopyright 1995 Reed Business Information, Inc.