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“WORLD OF GEMSTONES”,
By Rudolf Duda and L. Rejl, 192 pages, 8” X 5 1/4” size, pictorial
hard cover. This outstanding
book is illustrated with 260 color photographs, 85 of them by Jeff Scovil. Many of the photographs are of
outstanding gemstones and specimens from private collections and
institutions that have never been shared with the public before.
More than 100 precious and semi-precious stones and their varieties
are included. The
introductory section of the book provides basic information about
gemstones and their properties. Identification
by visual properties (color, luster, cleavage, fracture, and crystal
system) is treated in depth, yet explained in easy to understand terms.
Information on physical properties includes hardness, streak,
specific gravity, refractive index, birefringence, dispersion, pleochroism,
and luminescence. Common
methods of treatment are discussed (heating, dyeing, etc).
A brief history of gemstones is given, followed by a short chapter
on astrology and gemstone healing. Different
methods of processing (i.e. preparing faceted stones, cabochons, etc.),
identification, notes on imitations, and basic guidelines on the care of
gemstones are given. The book
is set up so that the information on the minerals is presented in
descending order of hardness, beginning with the Diamond (10 on the
hardness scale), and progressing down the hardness scale to Platinum (4),
Gold (3), and Silver (3). Each
of the minerals reviewed contains the chemical composition, detailed
information on the preferred methods of cutting, notes on color, hardness,
etc., history, astrology and healing effects, as well as information on
the common host rocks where the mineral is found and notes on its
occurrence, worldwide. Similar
minerals are listed, imitations, common methods used for identification,
and care of cut stones. The
color photographs include examples of natural crystals, as well as cut and
polished gemstones. Included
are not only the classic gemstones and precious metals, but also many
recently discovered stones including a list of rare gemstones, as well as
information on synthetic and imitation gemstones.
Information is also provided on tektites, obsidian, rock types used
for gemstones, pearls, and coral. An
alphabetical index is included. Published
by Geoscience Press, Tucson, Arizona, 1998.
Shipping weight: 2 pounds
Order
Item BK0620
Price: $26.95 |