Gemstones - Softcover

Oldershaw, Cally; Woodward, Christine; Harding, Roger

3.94

17 ratings by Goodreads

Softcover

ISBN 10: 0806941510 ISBN 13: 9780806941516

Publisher: Sterling, 2001

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Breathtaking color photographs, especially commissioned and in a fresh new layout that's completely revised from earlier editions, capture the glistening beauty of gemstones from around the world--stones used for jewelry and magical rites as far back as 20,000 years ago. This feast for the eyes shows uncut stones and gems in their natural state, details how they are formed and mined, and also includes such exquisite jewel-adorned creations as a Spanish Renaissance pendant with Columbian emeralds, the Black Prince's ruby set in the British Imperial State Crown; a Mayan jadeite mask, and the Koh-i-Noor diamond. For a full understanding of their fascination, look beyond their visible magnificence to the gems' structure and physical attributes. Besides the most popular gemstones, you'll find fascinating descriptions of common imitations and synthetics--and advice on distinguishing the real from the fake.
Note: This book is published in cooperation with the prestigious The Natural History Museum.

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About the Author:

Cally Oldershaw worked on the development of exhibitions in the geological galleries at The Natural History Museum. A Fellow of the Gemmological Association of Great Britain (GAGTL), she now works at the Geological Society. She continues to work as a freelance author, editor and consultant. Christine Woodward prepared and produced geological exhibitions at the Museum until 1990. She still works with the Museum delivering adult education courses. Roger Harding is Director of the GATL, a body providing membership, educational outreach and gem testing services. He was curator of gemstones at the Museum, from 1972-90.

Review:

"'Aesthetically pleasing, enjoyable, accurate, succinct... One could say a gem among books of its kind.' New Scientist on the first edition."

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