Publisher's Synopsis
As the sub-title suggests, this is the consumer's guide to precious gemstones. Divided into two parts: In plain non-technical language, Part I redefines preciousness and gently guides the reader toward a real understanding of those criteria that make a gemstone. Part II contains a series of individual essays that apply the criteria of connoisseurship to 35 of today's most important gemstones. The book covers precious stones old and new including diamond, pearl, tourmaline, sapphire, chalcedony, spinel, ruby, and garnet.
