Gemstones (Smithsonian Handbooks)

Gemstones (Smithsonian Handbooks)
Average customer rating:

A handy quick reference guide that is easy to use.

Gemstones Handbook

Good Gemstone reference book

Another great DK book

Lovely Reference

Gemstones (Smithsonian Handbooks)
Cally Hall
Manufacturer: DK ADULT
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback

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Simon & Schuster's Guide to Gems and Precious Stones

Smithsonian Handbooks: Rocks & Minerals (Smithsonian Handbooks)

Gemstone Buying Guide, Second Edition: How to Evaluate, Identify, Select & Care for Colored Gems

Gem Identification Made Easy, Third Edition: A Hands-On Guide to More Confident Buying & Selling

Gemstones of the World: Newly Revised & Expanded Third Edition

ASIN: 0789489856

Customer Reviews:

A handy quick reference guide that is easy to use........2007-09-03

I fear that I am a bit of a magpie. I like shiny sparkly things, and the usual response is Ooooh! Shiny! And as a young one, when taken on various trips, I started to take an interest in rockhounding and geology. It was finding gemstones that were the real fun, seeing these little bits of glittery rock that turned out to be sapphires or amethysts or garnets. Life would take me in different directions, but the interest in pretty, glittery rocks has remained.

Smithsonian Handbooks: Gemstones is one of those lovely little books that is crammed full of information and pictures, along some folklore and bits of trivia that add to the mystique of gemstones. Compiled by Cally Hall, it's a very readable book, filled with more than 800 photographs, with a text that while it is slanted towards scientific terms, is very readable and accessable.

The first section of the book is an extended introduction to what makes a gemstone different than say, a mineral, although they might be composed of the same chemicals. A brief history of how gemstones and precious metals (silver, gold and platinum) have been shaped, worn and coveted. One section that I found very intesting was the explaination of the Mohs scale used to determined hardness -- it ranges from 1 to 10, with talc at the bottom, and diamond at the top, and how a stone is determined to fit in along the scale. Another fascinating section is how light and crystallization help to determine gemstones, and what part they play in how a stone is shaped and graded. There is also a section on synthetic gemstones and how they have been created over the centuries, and how the colour of stones can be changed by irradiation, heating and staining the stones. Finally, the section closes with a colour key, ranging various stones by their hues, with plenty of vivid pictures and the name of each stone underneath along with the page that goes into more detail about it.

The next section deals with the gemstones and precious metals in particular. Each item is classified into Precious Metals, Cut Stones, and Organics -- and each item is given a page or two that goes into further detail. Stones are given their chemical composition, rating on the Mohs scale, crystal structure, some folklore and history, what sort of cuts that the stones are usually shaped into, and lots of photographs.

It here in the photographs that the book sells itself. They are unusually clear, and crisply printed, with each gemstone being shown in a variety of ways. There is jewelry, different colours that the stone can occur in, and a few shown in their 'matrix' or the surrounding stone and minerals that the gemstones are usually found in their natural state. One of the more intriguing sections is on what are known as Organic Gemstones -- stones that are created by natural, not chemical, occurances, such as pearls, jet, coral, ivory, shell and amber.

The final sections include a table of properties, glossary, index, and some useful addresses to contact if you find that you want to find out more.

The binding is very sturdy, the printing very clean and crisp with the design well-thought out that flows easily from page to page. It is designed to stand up to quite a bit of use, with a spine that will not crack, and heavier than usual paper stock, and the quality is top notch.

Packed into less than a 160 pages, this is a wonderfully priced little book that gives a quick, informative and lively look at gemstones. While it's certainly not a perfect book, and is mostly designed to help the reader figure out what a stone may or may not be -- only a trained gemologist can tell you what it really is -- it's a fun way to start learning. The price was extremely reasonable, less than 10$US, although the cover price is listed as 20$US. It would make a perfect book for adding to a home library, or as a gift to the budding rockhound in your family.

Five solid stars. Recommended.

Gemstones Handbook.......2007-08-14

Great Book...full of useful information. The pictures really give you an indepth but brief description of the item discussed. This book is absolutely essential to the amature hobby collectors out there.

Good Gemstone reference book.......2007-08-13

Great book for those wanting to know the basics about gemstones. The pictures are wonderful and the tidbits are interesting.

Another great DK book.......2007-06-30

I bought this book for my [...] son after we spent an afternoon panning for gemstones in Breckinridge, CO. The bookseller recommended several choices, but the DK book seemed the most kid-friendly. He likes the pictures the best, and enjoyed showing his younger cousins the various stones.

Lovely Reference.......2007-06-29

I bought this for my 7-yr. old daughter - budding rock hound and naturalist! Like other DK books, the photography is luscious and the layout is casual and very inviting - full of beautiful images.

It provides a great overview and history of gemstones and their appeal, where specific stones can be found and appealing photographs of the different cuts of stones. It also provides detailed "specifics" such as structure, composition and hardness.

This is a thoroughly engaging book for all ages and it is highly recommended.

Gemstones of the World: Newly Revised & Expanded Third Edition

Average customer rating:

Gemstones of the world
Gemstones of the World
Great book, tiny print...
Best overall gemstone book ever
Gemstone trader's bible

Gemstones of the World: Newly Revised & Expanded Third Edition
Walter Schumann
Manufacturer: Sterling
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Hardcover

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Gemstones (Smithsonian Handbooks)
The Jeweler's Directory of Gemstones: A Complete Guide to Appraising and Using Precious Stones From Cut and Color to Shape and Settings
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Colored Gemstones, 2nd Edition: The Antoinette Matlins Buying Guide: How to Select, Buy, Care for & Enjoy Sapphires, Emeralds, Rubies and Other Colored Gemstones
Gemstone Buying Guide, Second Edition: How to Evaluate, Identify, Select & Care for Colored Gems

ASIN: 1402740166

Book Description

Gemstones of the World is truly the single volume that every hobbyist, jeweler, jewelry maker, and rockhound needs: it’s the cornerstone of the field. And this updated edition contains a host of new findings on “Gemstones for Collectors,” additional gems in the “Table of Constants,” and the “double fraction” figures that experts have long wanted—a very special new feature.

All the gemstones are treated in their many variations: more than 1,500 full-color photos showcase each precious and semiprecious stone in both its rough, natural, and its polished and cut renditions. Each entry offers complete information on the gemstone’s formation, structure, physical properties, and characteristics, along with the best methods of working, cutting, and polishing it. There are even full treatments of lesser-known gems, from andalusite to vesuvian, and a special section is devoted to rocks as precious stones, including alabaster, onyx, obsidian, and fossils. Organic gem materials are also covered, such as coral, ivory, amber, and pearl. Charts and tables help collectors identify unknown gemstones and check for genuineness.

Customer Reviews:

Gemstones of the world.......2007-09-21

This is a very informative book with some good pictures, especially for the beginner who is learnig about gemstones. I read and reference it often. I am very pleased with this book and I look forward to using it for a long time.

Gemstones of the World.......2007-09-12

I use it all the time. It has answered all of my questions. Great book.

Great book, tiny print..........2007-08-31

I so want to read this book but every time I try I get a headache because the print is so tiny, and that is with my reading glasses on. Otherwise a very interesting book!

Best overall gemstone book ever.......2007-08-08

I bought the 2001 edition several years ago and found it indispensable at the jewelry store where I worked. Now that I'm getting into the nitty gritty of the Graduate Gemologist program at the GIA, I'm quite pleased to find an updated version available. I expect I'll be taking this to school with me to replace several large, ungainly lab manuals that haunt my desk.

This book makes a great cornerstone for any gem library. I own many gem guides and encyclopedias twice the size and weight of this while containing considerably less information. This one has the most complete collection of information and pictures I've seen anywhere at an astonishingly diminutive size. If you plan to buy only one gem book in your lifetime, I highly recommend this one.

Gemstone trader's bible.......2007-07-28

I dabble in gemstones - buying and selling from Brazil, Colombia and other countries. Schumann's book is a bible - an essential reference with a very accessable layout, excellent and concise information. Rarely do I need to seek other sources when researching stones.

Healing Crystals and Gemstones: From Amethyst to Zircon

Average customer rating:

Great service
grab this and Judy Hall's "Crystal Bible" and nothing else...
Beautiful Reference
Good Crystal reference
Healing Crystals and Gemstones

Healing Crystals and Gemstones: From Amethyst to Zircon
Flora Peschek-Bohmer , and Gisela Schreiber
Manufacturer: Konecky & Konecky
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Hardcover

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The Crystal Bible: A Definitive Guide to Crystals
The Illustrated Directory of Healing Crystals: A Comprehensive Guide to 150 Crystals and Gemstones
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Accessories:

RESPeRATE Blood Pressure Lowering Device
Airborne Effervescent Health Formula, Original Orange, 10 Tablets (Pack of 3)

ASIN: 1568524420

Product Description

A comprehensive listing of the therapeutic uses and healing effects of the most important crystals and gemstones.

Customer Reviews:

Great service.......2007-08-11

The book arrived in a timely manner & no shipping damage. Item was just as described. Thank you.

grab this and Judy Hall's "Crystal Bible" and nothing else..........2007-08-04

excellent, excellent book with vivid pics and of course all the wonderful sections and advantages already mentioned, but consider this...I have used the chapter "The Magical Connection between Stone and Star" to create healing bracelets/anklets for others and for myself made from the stones listed for our particular birth signs-very cool! The wealth of information at the tips of your fingers is just astounding...I refer to this and Judy Hall's "The Crystal Bible" and "Crystals and Healing Stones" for more obscure stones daily. I found it on a clearance rack and bought 3 copies-two sisters love crystals and two friends, so I was one short since I had my copy already...I am in the dog house because I mention it alot! IF YOU SEE IT GET IT, you won't regret it!

Beautiful Reference.......2007-07-12

If you're looking for an in-depth reference book on crystal therapy, this is NOT the right tome for you. If you're looking for a book that handily serves as lightweight resource, historical reference and coffee table volume, this is perfect.

Author Flora Peschek-Bohmer incorporates stunning photography in this beautiful epistle, laying her narratives over glossy pages and lush images. The hardback version, at approximately 7 x 9.5 inches, is a generous size without being too large to tuck into a suitcase. The text contains a blend of history and crystal lore, presented in simple-to-follow terms. Stated metaphysical attributes frequently takes a back seat to historical references, where Peschek-Bohmer provides an intriguing look at how mankind has employed stones for various uses.

While the primary thrust is the metaphysical properties of crystals, this book also includes a good rundown of care, cleansing and other tools for anyone who wants to carry or use or just collect examples of the featured stones.

Good Crystal reference.......2007-05-20

This is a great little book - has all the main details on most crystals, including a lot of the more recently discovered ones. However, does not for example include a fairly common crystal such as howlite. The pictures are very good though and there is enough basic information to satisfy most.

Healing Crystals and Gemstones.......2007-05-07

Great pictures and illustrations! The book really helps me to feel like I know how to use crystals and gemstones like a pro! I think that it is very good for a beginner.

The Jeweler's Directory of Gemstones: A Complete Guide to Appraising and Using Precious Stones From Cut and Color to Shape and Settings

Average customer rating:

Libraries will find this holds wide appeal for a range of gem crafters.
Very helpful
Appraising is not really addressed
Invaluable book for the serious gem colletor.
More than just info on stones

The Jeweler's Directory of Gemstones: A Complete Guide to Appraising and Using Precious Stones From Cut and Color to Shape and Settings
Judith Crowe
Manufacturer: Firefly Books
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Hardcover

Jewelry | Antiques & Collectibles | Home & Garden | Subjects | Books

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Similar Items:

Gemstones (Smithsonian Handbooks)
Gemstones of the World: Newly Revised & Expanded Third Edition
Gem Identification Made Easy, Third Edition: A Hands-On Guide to More Confident Buying & Selling
Gemstone Buying Guide, Second Edition: How to Evaluate, Identify, Select & Care for Colored Gems
Secrets of the Gem Trade: The Connoisseur's Guide to Precious Gemstones

ASIN: 1554071666

Book Description

For goldsmiths, collectors, jewelry-makers, investors, retailers and consumers.

The trade of gemstones is a highly specialized and often secretive business. Using The Jeweler's Directory of Gemstones, written by an expert gemstone dealer and designer, will provide any consumer with the insider knowledge needed to make accurate judgments of gemstones, to recognize low- and high-quality stones, and to make a good buy rather than a bad one.

Each full-color spread is packed with concise text, annotated drawings and beautiful photographs, including a showcase of virtuoso jewelry designs. Great for informed consumers, the book includes:

Sources and grading
Traditional and modern settings
Cutting and faceting
Designing a special setting
Gemstone groups
Appraising, buying and handling gemstones
Diamond types and pearls
Spotting synthetics and fakes.

Here is a sampling of the practical insider information in this book:

Using a loupe to examine a stone
Understanding laser cutting and carving
Identifying synthetic diamonds
Buying at gem fairs and from dealers
Cleaning and storing stones.

No other book has this kind expert advice -- up-to-date, clearly presented and fully illustrated -- on evaluating and using gemstones.

Customer Reviews:

Libraries will find this holds wide appeal for a range of gem crafters........2007-07-27

Anyone interested in working with gemstones, from jewelers and jewelry makers to designers, will find THE JEWELER'S DIRECTORY OF GEMSTONES: A COMPLETE GUIDE TO APPRAISING AND USING PRECIOUS STONES, FROM CUT AND COLOR TO SHAPE AND SETTING an invaluable resource. Here a history pairs with tips on how to appraise and use gemstones properly, with color photos tying all topic together. Sections are divided into ideas on creating gemstones through mining and collecting, identifying types of stones, and using them in designs. Libraries will find this holds wide appeal for a range of gem crafters.

Diane C. Donovan
California Bookwatch

Very helpful.......2007-06-27

This book has a ton of interesting information for the collector. I would recommend it highly.

Appraising is not really addressed.......2007-05-29

This book is rich in accurate images of gems and minerals and has a scientific review of chemical composition, hardness and refractive properties. It is not, however, a guide for appraisal. I have seen a small booklet that determines the carats of gems based on the dimensions and shape of the particular stone. This information is what I had hope to get, but, unfortunately, did not.

Invaluable book for the serious gem colletor........2007-05-21

Highly authortative, well written, profusely illustrated and, simply, a wealh of information.

More than just info on stones.......2007-05-19

This book has valuable information about stones with good pictures, but it also has beautifully designed jewelry. A great addition to a jewelry library.

Making Designer Gemstone and Pearl Jewelry

Average customer rating:

A great book and reference
Good beginner book

Making Designer Gemstone and Pearl Jewelry
Tammy Powley
Manufacturer: Quarry Books
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback

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Making Designer Bead and Wire Jewelry: Techniques for Unique Designs and Handmade Findings
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ASIN: 1564969630

Book Description

The hottest new look in fashion jewelry is all about gemstones and pearls. Now readers can create right at home their own unique versions of the stylish looks they see on models and in magazines. Using simple, accessible techniques and easily assembled supplies, Making Designer Gemstone and Pearl Jewelry shows how to make chokers, lariats, bracelets, earrings, and more in a variety of styles, from classic to modern to funky. Whether the desired look is simple and elegant or ornate and chunky, the creative process is easy and fun, and the results are spectacular. The book also offers information on the healing powers of gemstones turquoise for serenity and positive thinking, amber for romance and love to help readers imbue their designs with personal meaning. For anyone who loves jewelry, even if they've never strung a bead or twisted a wire, this unique guide will inspire readers to make beautiful, stylish accessories to keep or to give as gifts.

Tammy Powley is a jeweler, teacher, and writer. She is the host and manager of About.com's jewelry-making Web site, where she has regular columns. She is a frequent contributor to Jewelry Crafts magazine.

Customer Reviews:

A great book and reference.......2006-02-24

Great book! Simple to follow and the instructions are clear. It also allows for your own creativity to design and make future pieces. The illustrations are also very attractive and as a beginner I found the designs very encouraging and achievable to work toward. I think for the advanced, this book will be a great reference as well.

Good beginner book.......2003-06-18

For someone with little or no experience making beaded jewelry, this book is an excellent guide to making beautiful jewelry in some of the most trendy styles. All of the projects require 2 basic skills - stringing and the ability to twist a wire loop. If you have these skills, or can learn them from the detailed pictures and instructions, then you will be able to use this book.

Secrets of the Gem Trade: The Connoisseur's Guide to Precious Gemstones

Average customer rating:

~~~Secrets Revealed~~~
Well Worth it.
Secrets
New approach to the gemstone book
Try Reading Before You Try Trading

Secrets of the Gem Trade: The Connoisseur's Guide to Precious Gemstones
Richard W. Wise
Manufacturer: Brunswick House Pr
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback

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Similar Items:

Gem Identification Made Easy, Third Edition: A Hands-On Guide to More Confident Buying & Selling
The Jeweler's Directory of Gemstones: A Complete Guide to Appraising and Using Precious Stones From Cut and Color to Shape and Settings
Gemstone Buying Guide, Second Edition: How to Evaluate, Identify, Select & Care for Colored Gems
Gemstones of the World: Newly Revised & Expanded Third Edition
Gemstones (Smithsonian Handbooks)

ASIN: 0972822380

Book Description

Secrets Of The Gem Trade is the first comphrehensive gemstone grading manual. The book divides into two parts. Section I describes the criteria used to quality grade faceted gems, cabochons, pearls, opals, star stones and Catseyes.

Section II applies the grading criteria to 35 of today's most important gemstones. The book covers diamond, ruby, sapphire, emerald, tourmaline, garnet, pearl, agate and opal

The book inludes 1st person travelogues from Mr. Wise's trips to the major gem bearing areas of the world, including Africa, Asia, Australia and South America.

Customer Reviews:

~~~Secrets Revealed~~~.......2007-09-16

This excellent book goes deep into the specifics of how to correctly identify gemstones. Also has accounts of the authors travels around the world searching for such stones. Highly recommended.

Well Worth it........2007-08-09

This could be the book that pushes me to follow my dream of becoming a gemologist...

Secrets.......2007-06-27

This book has lots of interesting and little known facts. It is a great read.

New approach to the gemstone book.......2007-05-24

Surprisingly this book is totally different than other book. If you looking for a gemstone valuation, identification, etc. - you will not find it here. However, the book is discuss every member of the family gemstone with very easy to read and understand. Love it so much.

Try Reading Before You Try Trading.......2007-03-14

This is a very well written book with great photos. Easy reading detailed information on specific gems mixed in with interesting tales of travel to exotic lands. Made me realize my thoughts of international jem trading had better be prepared with years of experience. For thousands of years neophytes have been seperated from their money by professional,usually generational traders. This book saved me alot of money just by convincing me to continue as a hobbyist, albeit a better educated one now. If you are interested in colored stones, I highly recommend "Secrets Of The Gem Trade"

Opal Identification & Value (Rocks, Minerals and Gemstones)

Average customer rating:

Effective guide to opal evaluation
Best on How to Price an Opal

Opal Identification & Value (Rocks, Minerals and Gemstones)
Paul B. Downing
Manufacturer: Gem Guides Book Company
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Hardcover

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Rubies & Sapphires, Fourth Edition

ASIN: 0962531189

Book Description

The world standard is back by popular demand! This completely revised, updated and expanded version of Dr. Downing's 1992 Opal Identification and Value is a "must have" for all appraisers, opal buyers and opal lovers. Learn to properly identify opals from all over the world. Many new locations have been added along with new methodology to determine the characteristics that affect value, then determine price from updated value tables. Ascertain if the opal is a natural solid, boulder, doublet, triplet, dyed or lab-created. Be able to ask definitive questions when considering an opal. Learn what to look for in properly set jewelry. Become a confident buyer, seller or appraiser by distinguishing an ordinary opal from an outstanding one.

Customer Reviews:

Effective guide to opal evaluation.......2006-02-17

Downing's Opal Identification & Value provides a descriptive overview of opals, though it is short on technical data or gemmological information. The book emphasizes criteria for determining opal values, and here it performs a great service, because it lays out sensible-sounding and user-friendly guidelines. This book gives the reader an independent way to access the value of the opals offered in the marketplace, and helps her to make wise choices.

Best on How to Price an Opal.......2005-01-14

Even if you never intend to buy an opal, this book has much to offer a opal enthusiast, or those wanting an in depth knowledge of this gem. Other books will talk about differences in opal colors. Paul Downing will teach you to appreciate an opal's hue, tone, clarity, saturation and intensity. Lots of color pictures, as good as any other opal book, gives you the full range of the varieties of opals.

If you want a book to help you tell if an opal, especially a black opal, is offered for sale at a good price, then this is the book for you. There really is no competition. Because the author is an opal lover, student of the opal, and a trained economist, he is uniquely qualified to develop and present a systematic way to appraise opals. Amateurs need not be worried, you can easily do a quick estimate based on the book's method. Although the prices given in the book were developed in 2002, I find that they are still a good guide.

Yes, the book is a little on the pricey side. If you are going to spend more than about $200 on an opal, I think that the book is worth it. I have bought a number of other opal books. I should have saved my money. This one is all you need.

Average customer rating:

Dictionary of Gems and Gemology
Mohsen Manutchehr-Danai
Manufacturer: Springer
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Hardcover

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The Jeweler's Directory of Gemstones: A Complete Guide to Appraising and Using Precious Stones From Cut and Color to Shape and Settings
Artificial Gemstones
Synthetic, Imitation and Treated Gemstones
Gemmology, Third Edition
Gemstones (Smithsonian Handbooks)

ASIN: 3540239707

Book Description

The rapid growth of gemological sciences and mineralogy requires a comprehensive dictionary for gemologists, mineralogists, geologists, jewel dealers, industry, and hobbyists. The second edition of this dictionary contains about 25,000 entries – about 9,000 more than the first edition. The comprehensive definitions are now completed by more than 1,500 charts, diagrams and figures. The author offers a one-stop reference to any matter dealing with gems and gemology.

Average customer rating:

Gemstone Identification
WOW!
A brilliant articles on diffrent sort of gemstones. A must f
the ultimate reference series
I LOVE THIS BOOK!

DK Handbooks: Gemstones
Cally Hall
Manufacturer: DK ADULT
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback

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Simon & Schuster's Guide to Gems and Precious Stones
Gemstones (Smithsonian Handbooks)
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Simon & Schuster's Guide to Rocks and Minerals (Rocks, Minerals and Gemstones)

ASIN: 1564584984

Book Description

Over 130 gemstones are depicted with description, occurrence, composition, crystal structure, luster, and other details.

Customer Reviews:

Gemstone Identification.......2007-01-16

This book is OK but for the beginner trying to get the most for your money in explanation of precious gemstones, I don't really recommend this book a necessity for right away. You can enter it to your reference library at a later time. It is a good book but doesn't have enough details needed at first for identifications.

WOW!.......2005-03-19

I took out this book in the middle of fourth grade. I loved it so much I kept it till the end of the year. Then I took it out again in fifth grade, along with the Moths and Butterflies book from the same series. These books are wonderful tools for projects, assignments, or just plain fun! I'm planning on buying this book soon once I earn enough money. (I'm broke T_T)

A brilliant articles on diffrent sort of gemstones. A must f.......2002-06-20

I WOULD LIKE TO THANK CALLY HALL PERSONALY FOR SUCH A EXCELLENT WORK ON GEMSTONES. THE WORK CANNOT BE DESCRIBED IN WORDS. I AM A JEWELLER AS WELL AS GEMOLOGIST, GOT QUIET IMPRESSED WITH SUCH PIECE OF ART.

the ultimate reference series.......2001-09-01

Where to begin? Photos, interesting facts, chemical compositions, broad range of stones!!!! The perfect reference for jewelers, libraries, hobbyists, homeschoolers- and to all you crystal/light workers, here is an awesome way to get a view of the crystals mentioned in the text-only guidebooks. See the Rocks & Minerals guide also.

I LOVE THIS BOOK!.......2001-07-13

A PICTURE IS WORTH A THOUSAND WORDS AND THIS BOOK HAS TERRIFIC PICTURES AND VERY CLEAR AND CONCISE DESCRIPTIONS. EVERYTHING THAT I WANT TO KNOW ABOUT THE SUBJECT IS ANSWERED IN THIS BOOK. THERE'S A VISUAL GUIDE TO OVER 130 GEMSTONE VARIETIES AND A COLOR KEY FOR EVERY GEMSTONE. THERE ARE SO MANY INTERESTING BITS OF INFORMATION HERE THAT THE READER GETS A COURSE IN HISTORY, GEOGRAPHY, SCIENCE AND FOLKLORE. FOR INSTANCE, THE CUSTOM OF WEARING BIRTHSTONE JEWELRY STARTED IN 18TH CENTURY POLAND; THE MASK OF TUTANKHAMEN WAS MADE OF LAPIS FROM AFGHANISTAN AND THE BEAUTIFUL PINK MORGANITE WAS NAMED AFTER J.P. MORGAN. THIS IS A SUPER REFERENCE BOOK!

Beadazzled: Where Beads + Inspiration Meet

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Beadazzled: Where Beads + Inspiration Meet
Penelope Diamanti , and William L. Allen
Manufacturer: 1st Impression Publishing
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Hardcover

Beadwork | Crafts & Hobbies | Home & Garden | Subjects | Books

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ASIN: 0977882020

Product Description

Inspiring and comprehensive guide showcasing the work of 70 top bead jewelry designers. 185 dazzling color photographs by former National Geographic Editor in Chief, William L. Allen. Author Penelope Diamanti weaves the fascinating history of beads together with her own and other designers' insights and experiences. Seven chapters organize the work by materials and cultural influences. The Gemstones Chapter features magnificent jewelry made of semi-precious stone beads while shedding light on the wealth of symbolism they convey. The bead jewelry renaissance of the 1970s produced adornment inspired by the vitality of African ornamentation and beads, and the Africa Chapter presents some astounding works of art. The Asia Chapter radiates the energy of vibrant and diverse jewelry traditions of China, Nepal, Tibet, India, Thailand, and Central Asia. Nature highlights the freshness and appeal of necklaces created with organic materials: wood, seeds, bone, horn, shells, coral, pearls, etc. Fiber and Metal respectively explore new twists in texture and structure demonstrating that beaded jewelry design, while rooted in tradition, is passionately alive. Contempo serves up a visual feast of wearable art created with Contemporary American Art Glass, space age dichroic glass, and an ecclectic mix of found objects. This practical resource for artists, designers, historians, and collectors would make an excellent gift. A team with many years experience at National Geographic produced this beautifully designed volume with high quality printing and binding. 9 1/4 by 9 3/4 inches. Includes Index and Bibliography.

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