Throughout history, pearls have been treasured for their beauty wherever they've been found -- from China to the Persian Gulf to Mexico and beyond. Before the creation of cultured pearls, natural pearls were incredibly rare, considered symbols of wealth and power reserved for the elite. With the pearl culturing revolution, pearls became widely available, and they remain an iconic fashion staple for celebrities, athletes, royalty and everyone in between.

This lavishly illustrated guide -- which features hundreds of photos, maps and diagrams -- covers everything from identifying, culturing and evaluating these gems to the captivating stories of some of the world's most sought-after pearls.

Pearls includes chapters on:

Why pearls are so prized -- Pearl symbolism and admiration throughout the ages and a showcase of the most prized pearls in history
Natural vs. cultured pearls -- Explanation of the sources of each and how a layperson can identify them
Pearl value factors -- A list of the main factors for evaluating pearl quality and price
Akoya pearls, South Sea pearls, black pearls and freshwater pearls. These chapters discuss the sources and qualities of each type of pearl and gives readers tools to evaluate them
Pearls produced by sea snails, scallops, clams, saltwater mussels and nautiluses
Pearl processing and treatments -- How pearls can be treated and tests that can be done to see if a pearl has been treated
Imitation pearls
Pearl jewelry -- Examples of pearl jewelry from the 18th century to the modern day
Wearing and caring for pearls -- Tips for wearing a strand of pearls as well as methods of cleaning and storing pearls.

As useful as it is beautiful, Pearls will be a welcome guide for anyone who has felt the allure of these spherical gems.

About the Author

Ren�e Newman is a highly respected gemologist and the author of gem and jewelry guides, including Diamonds, which charted the history, sources, cutting techniques and more of the world's strongest gemstone. Her books have been used worldwide as sales-training tools, buying guides, class texts and references for jewelry professionals. She earned her graduate gemologist diploma from the prestigious Gemological Institute of America (GIA).

"About this title" may belong to another edition of this title.

Store Description

We carry a comprehensive range of out of print and rare books.

Visit Seller's Storefront

Seller's business information

Kennys Bookshops and Art Galleries Limited
Liosban Industrial Estate, Tuam Road, Galway, GY, Ireland

Sale & Shipping Terms

Terms of Sale

We guarantee the condition of every book as it's described on the Abebooks websites.

If you're dissatisfied with your purchase (Incorrect Book/Not as Described/Damaged) or if the order hasn't arrived, you're eligible for a refund within 30 days of the estimated delivery date.

For any queries please use the contact seller link or send an email to books@kennys.ie

Conor Kenny

Shipping Terms

All books securely packaged. Some books ship from Ireland.

Shipping rates within U.S.A.

Shipping rates within U.S.A.
Order quantity	14 to 20 business days	13 to 14 business days
First item	US$ 10.50	US$ 21.00

Delivery times are set by sellers and vary by carrier and location. Orders passing through Customs may face delays and buyers are responsible for any associated duties or fees. Sellers may contact you regarding additional charges to cover any increased costs to ship your items.