National Gem Collection
This beautifully illustrated work commemorates the reconstruction of the gem and mineral hall at the Smithsonian's National Museum of Natural History. Curator Post has compiled an informative work that highlights one of the world's most famous and visited gem collections. Following an introductory chapter focusing on gem basics (cutting, measurement, color) and a brief history of the collection, the five remaining chapters describe historical jewels in the collection, diamonds, corundum (rubies and sapphires) and beryl (emeralds), other important gems, gems with special optical properties (opals), and ornamental stones. Among the famous jewels profiled are the Hope Diamond, the Napoleon Diamond Necklace, the Marie-Antoinette Earrings, and the Hooker Emerald. This volume makes an excellent companion to Gems and Crystals from the American Museum of Natural History (LJ 1/1/91). Recommended for most libraries. [Natural Science Book Club alternate selection.]?Stephen Allan Patrick, East Tennessee State Univ. Lib., Johnson Cit.-?Stephen Allan Patrick, East Tennessee State Univ. Lib., Johnson CityCopyright 1997 Reed Business Information, Inc.