Simon & Schuster's Guide to Gems and Precious Stones provides both the connoisseur and the casual collector with a compact, easy-to-use volume describing more than 100 rare varieties of minerals whose beauty and mystery have possessed our imaginations from time immemorial. More than 450 brilliant photographs accompany profiles of each gem, covering such aspects as appearance, physical properties -- density, hardness, refraction -- occurrence, and how to judge quality and value. Additional sections describe the process of cutting gemstones and the techniques professional gemologists use to evaluate a stone's weight and optical properties. Detailed and comprehensive, this book is essential for anyone interested in the study of gems and precious stones.

A comprehensive manual of the world's gemstones and includes more than 1,400 examples. Opposite each illustration, this text provides a description of the particular stone, including details of the properties and chemical composition which makes the stone unique. It also gives information on location of major deposits, and alternative names.

The Secret Teachings of Gemcutting is a collection of classic gemstone designs spanning 500 years. The designs are presented with full color photos, historical information, cutting advice, and design information. These are industry standard designs for the gem and jewelry trade for all the major gemstone cutting centers around the world. This collection marks the first time the designs have been compiled for public consumption. This volume will prove useful to both gemcutters who want to cut these essential designs and to jewelers who would like a visual aid to present different gemstone styles to their customers. Aside from the designs, the introductory chapters of the book contain invaluable information about gemstone design, optics, gem physics, modifying designs, pairing rough gems with an appropriate design, and more.

Describes the appearance, formation, physical properties and characteristics, mining, and cutting of precious, semiprecious, and synthetic gemstones.

Gives pointers on how to buy gemstones, with advice on price comparison, quality evaluation, fake stones, gem treatments, and gem cleaning and care.

A fully illustrated guide to the ancient Hawaiian art of massage with hot stones • Includes illustrated instructions for each area of the body • Explains how to combine hot stone massage with gemstone chakra treatment, detailing the specific healing powers of 54 gemstones • Recommends which base oils and essential oils enhance the effects of hot stone massage Since ancient times, the people of Hawaii have used hot stones for both physical and spiritual healing. Using basalt stones--fine-grained, high-density volcanic rocks with an exceptional ability to store heat--hot stone massage not only dispels tensions and soothes the soul but also enhances lymph flow, removes toxins, and fortifies the immune system. The treatment causes blood vessels to dilate, leading to improved circulation and consequently improved oxygen, nutrient, antibody, and protective cell supply to the area of the body under the stones and is extremely effective for joint problems, back pain, and sore muscles. Beyond the strictly physical benefits, the massage also stimulates the meridians and chakras, gently dissipating energetic blockages. This book provides step-by-step, fully illustrated instructions for treatments for each area of the body. The authors then include details on the specific healing powers of 54 gemstones, showing how to further enhance the benefits of hot stone massage with gemstone chakra treatment. For instance, in facial massage, working with amethyst can alleviate headaches and help heal skin blemishes. They also describe the therapeutic benefits of several base and essential oils and recommend specific combinations for hot stone massage. The power of the stones, the warmth of the treatment, and the massage itself unite in this holistic therapy to provide deep relaxation and calm that recharges the body and soul.

Introducing the inherent properties of dazzling selection of gems, gemologist Raymond Walters describes how each stone is formed and its key properties, what beliefs have been associated with them through history and around the world, and both their scientific and occult uses.

Describes the basic shapes of crystals and other aspects of crystallography, including how they form in nature, how crystals are studied and identified, what gives them their amazing color, and how they are used in everyday life.

This fascinating work provides a truly stunning visual guide to the beautiful world of gemstones. It brings together a wealth of information in clearly worded text accompanied by a dazzling collection of color photographs showing gems in their natural and cut states. From subjects as diverse as identifying and collecting minerals and advanced testing, to ethical sourcing of gems, every aspect of gemstones is covered, and is presented with a wealth of research in easy-to-understand sections, making it a must-have reference work for anyone who wants to delve into the exciting world of gems.