The gem collector's handbook

Book Description

Around the turn of the 20th century it became fashionable for homes to include decorative panels of stained glass in their windows and doors. They ranged from small eyelid windows or transoms over a doorway to massive walls of double-hung windows. In any size they introduced a warm glow of color to the interiors and an artistic tflare to the architecture. Today stained glass is being rediscovered. Antique windows and doors are sought after by collectors and decorators, and contemporary glass artists are reviving the craft. This book demonstrates the wide range of glass that is available in the market. For the artisan it gives a context to their work and provides them with ideas and techniques to expand their repertoire. Over 500 color pictures show the artistry and craftsmanship of antique windows and doors from England, Europe and the United States, and make this an invaluable resource for designers, architects, home restorers and collectors alike. Dimensions and information about the historical context and the artists who produced the glass are provided, along with current prices.

Customer Reviews:

Stained Glass Windows & Doors, 2nd book..........2006-03-15

The 1st book was incredible! I loved it..the windows were exciting and different...and I couldn't stop picking it up and looking at more windows and designs.....The second book, for me, doesn't have such incredible window designs...a bit more ordinary..however, what I do like is that it's laid out a bit more in order..and a lot more informative history on the stained glass...Prices are really irrelevant..as they'll be outdated in a few years...There's such a great need for books on stained glass...and these certainly are of help. A book on just American Stained Glass windows would be appropriate..and then one specializing on Victorian styles, A&C styles, and then regional styles...along with how they were used in the homes..and maybe a collection with period pictures...etc..there's lots more that needs to be printed!

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My New Favorite Author!
Magical spell binder
Strange and new
fun but strange fantasy
A Terrific Book

A Rumor of Gems (Gemstone)
Ellen Steiber
Manufacturer: Tor Books
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Hardcover

Antiques | Home & Garden | Bargain Books | Stores | Books

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ASIN: B000KHXCEE
Release Date: 2005-05-19

Customer Reviews:

My New Favorite Author!.......2006-05-07

A Rumor of Gems is a great new fantasy novel by an excellent writer. I can't get enough of this book. Like most people, I didn't want it to end. I felt as if I have been in Arcato now.

The main story is about Lucinda, who finds herself on a journey as she discovers more about herself and helps her friends. There is romance, adventure and lots of fun.

The story has a wonderful cast of colorful characters. The gemstone theme throughout the book is so cool. Gods wander the streets among humans, shape shifters cause trouble. With so much going on, it was a lot of fun to read.

I highly recommend this and I hope there will be a second book set in Arcato. I can't wait to go back again.

Magical spell binder.......2006-04-09

I have never read fantasy before. This book is magical and wonderous. It held my interest throughout and made me want to look up more about the gods and gems on the web. I can't wait for the sequel.

Strange and new.......2006-01-17

In the city of Arcato, strange things are happening. People find gem stones lying about. A young boy is killed mysteriously. Shadows are not benign. The gods are restless. And tricksters are loose. Five people are caught up in an ancient struggle, some with powers to fight back, some without.

Lucinda de Francesco and her friend Tyrone Dessaline work together in the garment business. She has an eye for antique fabrics and he has an eye for changing them into marvelous garments. Sebastian, a newcomer to the city, seduces Lucinda, although she struggles against it. He is a man of secrets. On Carnival Night, Tyrone offends Ilyap'a, a storm god, and his life is to be forfeit. Add the murderous intentions of the boy Michael and their lives forever become hopelessly intertwined.

Meanwhile, Alasdair, a cearu, or type of holy man, is the one who scatters gems throughout the city. Having seen as much of Arcato as he wants, he prepares to leave. Yet once he meets Lucinda, he tarries. He and Sebastian are enemies, he wants to help Michael, and he wields the magic of the stones to find the real villain whose depradations increase.

These characters, and more, come alive in this story of magic and people struggling against forces they don't always understand. The premise is original, the language is often lilting, and the colors are vivid. This story and this world are not the usual fare.

fun but strange fantasy .......2005-07-24

The city of Arcato is under some sort of mystical siege. First magical gemstones began appearing with the potency to cast spells. On top of that the ancient port city has become a place teeming with gods and other mythological creatures pretending to be humans only to vent havoc on the locals while time is multiple with varying epochs coexisting in an interactive spiral.

As chaos rules the city, human Lucinda de Francesco detests males whether they are god, shapeshifter or mortal as she wants no one to dictate to her how to live and yet she still thirsts for true love. She is especially wary of antiques dealer Sebastian Keane, who obsessively courts her in spite of her acrimonious rejections of him. At the same time; eleven years old Michael Fortunato has apparently become a killer because someone seems to have used the power of a gem to control the lad. Could that have been a God, a rogue shaman like Alasdair or even the sentient miniature dragon gemstone?

The weird city and its supernatural cast that includes the thinking gems and most humans are well rounded and solid so that the audience believes in what is going on inside of Arcato. However, the heroine on the other hand pontificates on her life slowing down an exhilarating plot that moves on all cylinders when Lucinda is not musing about the shortcomings. Fans of strange fantasy tales will appreciate this fine story wondering whether the preadolescent is a killer, a victim of a gem, or set up by one of the Gods.

Harriet Klausner

A Terrific Book.......2005-07-20

I am a big fan of adult fantasy and this book has quickly become one of my favorites! The story is enchanting and I recommend it to anyone who enjoys this genre.

The Gem & Mineral Collector's Guide to Idaho

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Book Review
Review by JW
This Book is a Real Problem

The Gem & Mineral Collector's Guide to Idaho
Lanny R. Ream
Manufacturer: Gem Guides Book Company
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback

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ASIN: 1889786136

Book Description

Newly revised and updated, The Gem & Mineral Collector's Guide to Idaho now combines Volume I and Volume II into one handy rockhounding guide. From Bathtub Mountain and Ruby Rapids to Paris Canyon and Cinder Butte, the author will lead the collector to over 40 of the best mineral, fossil, and gemstone sites Idaho has to offer. Find the best spot in Rabbit Springs to find agate-filled thundereggs or where to hunt for precious opal in Spencer.

A comprehensive list of Bureau of Land Management agencies and National Forest Services throughout the state is included to aid in planning your collecting adventure. Complete with individual site maps, an overview map, detailed directions, and black and white photos.

The Gem & Mineral Collector's Guide to Idaho is the essential guide for rockhounding in Idaho.

For the last two decades, Lanny Ream has been writing and publishing books on the minerals and "popular geology" of the Northwest, and publishes a monthly newspaper for mineral collector's - Mineral News.

Customer Reviews:

Book Review.......2007-07-04

The book came in excellent condition and in a very short time.
Book was in condition as promised.

Review by JW.......2006-02-25

"The Gem & mineral collectors guide to idaho" describes some interesting collecting sites, unfortunately the directions to the sites are very poor. It would be difficult if not impossible to find most of the sites described without more information. GPS coordinates would be a great help. Quality maps would also be useful.

This Book is a Real Problem.......2004-06-13

I happen to live in one of the areas that Lanny Reams suggests is excellent rock hounding. Actually I own property that he suggests is great for finding certain minerals. I now spend a great deal of time telling ( or occasionally argueing with) people that "this is private property. You cannot dig here." The most frequent response is " Well it says in the book I can." Mr Reams does mention in his book that people should not go on posted land. There is no mention of asking permision to dig on private land. My land is not posted, but thanks to this book it soon will be. I would suggest before he writes anymore guidebooks he checks out propery and mineral rights of the owners of the land on which he reccomends rockhounding.

Turquoise: Mines, Mineral, & Wearable Art (Schiffer Book for Collectors)

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Turquoise: Mines, Mineral, & Wearable Art (Schiffer Book for Collectors)
Mark P. Block
Manufacturer: Schiffer Publishing
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback

Collections, Catalogues & Exhibitions | Photography | Arts & Photography | Subjects | Books

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ASIN: 0764326422

Average customer rating:

Disagree with review

Fascination
Hilary Norman
Manufacturer: Dutton Adult
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Hardcover

Contemporary | General | Literature & Fiction | Subjects | Books

ASIN: 0525934693

Customer Reviews:

Disagree with review.......2003-07-09

I totally disagree with Amazon's reviewer on this book, I thought it was a wonderful book full of mystery and intrigue. At the same time it is beautifully written detailing places and times in a way that lets the reader really envision them, as if they were there. I would ask anyone who enjoys family sagas, mystery, intrigue, adventure and a good read to give it a chance, reviewers are not always right. I am not one to suffer through a bad book and I read this one in two sittings and have passed it on to several friends and all liked it as well as I did.

Gems: A Lively Guide for the Casual Collector (Rocks, Minerals and Gemstones)

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Gems: A LIvely Guide...review
Very Informative
This man romances the stones!
What a pleasure!
Great Book!

Gems: A Lively Guide for the Casual Collector (Rocks, Minerals and Gemstones)
Daniel J. Dennis
Manufacturer: Harry N. Abrams
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Hardcover

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

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ASIN: 0810941260

Book Description

If you love the beauty of gems but have trouble distinguishing a topaz from a sapphire, this book is for you. How can you make sure you are getting good value for your money? Just buy this book! Dan Dennis, the gem show host whose popularity with Home Shopping Network viewers nationwide has helped to fuel the recent explosion in the gem collecting market, offers a wealth of useful facts and fascinating lore about gems in this funny yet practical illustrated guide.

With the same passion and entertaining, informative style that has marked his television appearances over the past 15 years, Dennis covers in detail more than 100 different gems-from diamonds, pearls, and rubies to emeralds, jade, opals, and a host of less-familiar stones as well. The book describes the often surprising route a gem takes from rough stone to polished and set jewelry; lists birth and astral stones; and offers helpful tips on how to buy jewelry and how to care for your treasures once you do.

60 illustrations, 55 in full color, 8 x 10"

DANIEL J. DENNIS, JR., is a gemstone specialist and senior gem show host for the Home Shopping Network. Dennis, his wife Linda, and family reside in St. Petersburg, Florida.

Customer Reviews:

Gems: A LIvely Guide...review.......2005-09-27

This book is just what the title says - the author uses some humor and information is aimed toward a casual collector rather than a scientist or a super-rich collector. Besides the usual information about the make-up of a gemstone, there is also comparisons of the gem if it is found in more than one location, a bit of history of the discovery of a gemstone, and even a bit of information about the beliefs in the health benefits of some stones. It is not absolutely a complete guide, but more than just an overview of the main gems such as diamonds, sapphires, etc. The photos are very good, although not all are labeled.

Very Informative.......2001-09-29

I very much enjoyed this book mostly because it is written in plain ordinary English for the average person. With all the internet shopping that is now available, it is advisable to know something about the various gems so you know what you're getting.
This book fills the bill perfectly!

This man romances the stones!.......2001-08-09

This man knows his gems and he has great stories behind each piece. He has great ways of romancing the stones like no one else. I get so excited hearing the little background stories he tells about each gem and the history behind the locations they come from. A great book by a renowned expert of gemology. I highly recommend this book.

What a pleasure!.......2001-07-26

I can't begin to say how wonderful this book is. Whether you are a layman or a professional, this is THE book to turn to. Not only is it highly informative, but it is written so well that you actually WANT to read it. Dan's sense of humor and his love for gems shines here. I wouldn't trade this book for anything.

Great Book!.......2000-03-28

This book is very insightful. If you want to know anything about gems - how to care for them, where they come from, etc. - this book is a must. Highly recommended!

Gem trails of Texas: A field guide for collectors

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Gem trails of Texas: A field guide for collectors
Bessie W Simpson
Manufacturer: Gem Trails Pub. Co
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Unknown Binding
ASIN: B0007EQM9W

Average customer rating:

The further adventures of Lavinia and Tobias
A refreshing change from the ordinary romance.
Not her best
A change of pace.
Don't look back indeed!

Don't Look Back
Amanda Quick
Manufacturer: Bantam
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Hardcover

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ASIN: 0553802003
Release Date: 2002-05-28

Amazon.com

Setting: Regency England

Sensuality: 7

A London lady who's skilled in the practice of mesmerism, Lavinia Lake has launched a new career as a private investigator, a startling and slightly scandalous occupation for a woman in Regency England. Strong-willed and independent, Lavinia isn't a typical society widow, a fact which alternately attracts and frustrates her enigmatic partner, Tobias March. Lavinia and Tobias have a prickly and passionate relationship, and Tobias is determined to protect her, while Lavinia is just as determined to be an equal partner in their business.

When the wife of mesmerist Dr. Howard Hudson is murdered and a rare antique bracelet known as the Blue Medusa disappears, the doctor seeks Lavinia's help. Tobias is reluctant to become involved in the matter but Lavinia feels compelled to help her late father's associate. Their attempt to uncover the murderer leads them to obscure antiquities dealers, secret organizations, amoral heirs, and ladies of the evening. And when a madman threatens Lavinia's life, only Tobias can hope to save her.

Lavinia Lake and Tobias March began their adventures in the novel Slightly Shady, and in this second installment, author Jayne Ann Krentz, writing under her Amanda Quick pseudonym, further develops the couple's romantic relationship while entangling them in a murder mystery enhanced by an exploration of ancient British jewelry. The author also introduces a charming secondary couple in the mix of eccentric and interesting cast members. Fans of historical romance and mystery will welcome this latest offering from bestselling author Krentz. --Lois Faye Dyer

Book Description

In this most entrancing tale of mystery and romance by the New York Times bestselling author AMANDA QUICK, lovers and partners-in-crime investigators Lavinia Lake and Tobias March continue their exciting newfound relationship, with its delicious mix of risky business, rising passion, and now--murder.

As if a head for business and a nose for trouble aren’t enough to distinguish fiercely independent Lavinia Lake from the other women of London’s fashionable Claremont Lane, there is one more feature to set her apart. Lavinia is also well versed in the practice of mesmerism, an extraordinary gift that far surpasses mere charm and physical appeal. Nobody knows this better than the usually coolheaded Tobias March, who seems to have fallen hopelessly under her spell. Fortunately for all, however, Lavinia uses her powers for good. And ever since a tragedy involving one of her subjects, she has even retired them in favor of her work with Lake and March, a joint venture providing “discreet private inquiries for individuals of quality.” Celeste Hudson, the stunningly beautiful young wife of a family friend and fellow mesmerist, would surely count herself among such individuals--were she still alive, that is. While mythology’s Medusa could turn men to stone, lovely Celeste was more accustomed to turning them to jelly. In fact, unbeknownst to her husband, Howard, the ambitious Celeste was planning to use her talents to forge a new future in Society--one that would not include him. Sadly, her plans were cut short when she was murdered. Only a gentleman’s cravat wound around her lovely neck remained for evidence--small compensation for the strange and priceless bracelet that may have been snatched from her wrist as she drew her last breath.

As a result, Lake and March are soon in Howard Hudson’s employ on the trail of the killer. But Tobias is convinced the dashing widower is more interested in tracking down the missing relic. If so, Howard is not alone. Any number of ruthless types are after the very same antiquity, whose centerpiece is an unusual blue cameo of inestimable value and supposed legendary powers--powers of immeasurable worth to anyone in Howard’s line of work.

Together, Lake and March undertake a tantalizing investigation that leads them from the glittering ballrooms of the ton to London’s seediest taverns to a mesmerist whose therapies include treating ladies suffering from “hysteria” is a a most unconventional method--and, not least of all, to the darkest reaches of men’s psyches. Along the way, Don’t Look Back becomes a completely mesmerizing read as the irrepressible Lavinia and Tobias mix business with pleasure....

Download Description

Eddie starts stealing cars long before he's old enough to get a license, driven by a force so compelling that he never questions, just obeys. After a series of false starts, interrupted by stays in juvenile institutions and a state prison term, Eddie's skills and loyalty attract the attention of J.C., a near-legendary hijacker. When he gets out, Eddie becomes the driver for J.C.'s ultra-professional crew. J.C., the master planner, is finally ready to pull off that one huge job every con dreams of... the Retirement Score. But some roads have twists even a professional getaway man couldn't foresee...

Andrew Vachss, a writer widely acclaimed for breathing new life and death into the crime genre, here presents a classic noir tale, relentlessly displaying and dissecting not guilt, but innocence.

"Vachss is a contemporary master."
   THE ATLANTA JOURNAL-CONSTITUTION

"Vachss has updated the classic noir thriller, and set a new standard. The Getaway Man is taut and understated, inexorable in its deepening moral ambiguity. Eddie, the getaway man is a brilliant achievement, simple but not stupid, as steady on the wheel as Vachss' prose style, Eddie remains an honorable innocent in a world of slowly revealed depravity."
   ROBERT FERRIGNO

Customer Reviews:

The further adventures of Lavinia and Tobias.......2007-06-21

The further adventures of Lavinia and Tobias (as started in Slightly Shady) ... Lavinia and Tobias, now lovers and business partners, are in search of a killer. Celeste, the wife of an old family friend of Lavnia's is murdered. To complicate matters, a priceless bracelet is also missing. Lavinia and Tobias figure that if they can find the bracelet, they will find the killer. Of course, they aren't the only ones searching for it. This was a charming, light read that made me chuckle. I especially like the lively interaction between Lavinia and Tobias.

A refreshing change from the ordinary romance........2007-06-10

I feel the need to put my two cents in here since I've seen a lot of negative reviews of this book. I'm a big fan of historical romance. This is the first Amanda/Jayne book I've read. (Why, oh WHY don't they say on the cover, "SECOND IN A SERIES?") Not having read the first book of the series, I was shocked to find the lead characters having an affair on page 4 of the book. Typically, the leads dislike each other, swear off romance, end up doing the nasty, get married because they are forced, and in the end, admit their love for one another. This novel was so refreshingly different. First of all, I'm not a fan of mysteries. So this was a nice "weaning" of the genre for me. I LOVED, LOVED, LOVED, Tobias. (Who on earth names their romantic leads, "Tobias and Lavinia??") He was a really strong character with a haunting quality. Lavinia was a strong female lead, although a bit dull. I also liked the 2nd romance between her niece and his bro-in-law. I found this story exciting and funny with a few surprises that actually made me gasp out loud. I'm definately picking up the third in the series to see what happens, regardless of it's three star rating. I'm glad I read the book before I saw all of these kill-joy reviews! I hope you'll give Tobias and Livinia a chance. [But be sure to read the first book FIRST! Slightly Shady.]

Not her best.......2004-05-24

I like Amanda Quick, in fact I like her a lot, but I found this book disappointing. I think the problem for me was that it didn't introduce a new heroine and hero. Instead, it continued the story of Lavinia and Tobias from Slightly Shady. I like romances with a lot of plot, and this certainly has that, but I found it too easy to guess the villain. In a book where the hero and heroine are new to each other, I don't mind this too much - it's a romance, not a whodunnit, after all - but the combination of easy to guess villain and old lovers didn't work for me.

A change of pace........2004-05-19

I really took the lead characters in this book. The book was a fun read and a bit different than the usual Quick books.

Don't look back indeed!.......2004-03-05

I've never read her other novels except for "Slightly Shady" so I don't have any comparisons nor I can say that she's not capable of putting something that will spice up her novels. So anyway, the only thing that made me read this book is because I read "slightly shady" and when I start a story( a series for that matter) I intend to finish them.
But let me tell u, the ONLY JOY I got from reading this novel is when I got on the last page, not because it has a good ending(it was adequate) but because it's the last page and I'm FINALLY over it. I didn't really enjoy it, a lot of times I wanna put it down. It was so frustrating. I got the feeling of total detachment. Though I'll say, she is getting better on manuevering Tobias and Lavinia to invoke more humor into them. One more improvement is her attack on the mystery part. It's not hooking or anything, but still, it isn't easy to figure out...but it's not that hard either. If it's a good mystery ur looking for, I think u'll do better if u pick a Hardy Boys novel...

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