Understanding Jewellery

The authors, Sotheby's jewellery experts, evaluate many millions of pounds worth annually and thus handle a complete cross-section of what is available on the market. They have specially selected the 833 colour illustrations to show what to look for and, equally important, what to avoid.
This essentially practical book is unique in explaining why values vary and the individual points important for each category. A major section is devoted to the identification of the major gemstones and the testing methods to assess quality and detect fakes.

This newly revised, updated edition of a classic work presents a volume featuring the identification, dating and valuation of jewellery ordinary people can still locate and collect today. Sotheby's own experts use their evaluation techniques and expertise to provide a clear layman's volume on the process of jewellery collecting. -- Midwest Book Review