The premier book of its kind, revised, updated and expanded. A comprehensive guide to the standards, procedures and ethics of appraising gems, jewelry and other valuables, Gems & Jewelry Appraising, 3rd Edition, contains expert practical guidance, combined with detailed descriptions, photos, case studies, pricing data, key documents and more. This guide offers all the information that practicing or aspiring appraisal professionals will need to establish an appraisal business, handle various kinds of appraisals--for insurance, divorce, inheritance, liquidation, collateral and tax donation--and provide an accurate, verifiable estimate of value.

Newly updated and expanded, Diamonds gives you all the information you need to buy, collect, sell—or simply enjoy—diamonds with confidence and knowledge. Whether you are buying a diamond for an engagement ring, anniversary, to commemorate a special moment or for personal pleasure, today it is more important than ever to understand what you are buying. There are new shapes and cuts, fancy colors, high-tech treatments and sophisticated frauds. There are new ways to buy—such as Internet auctions. Buyers need a source of expert guidance. Practical, comprehensive and easy to understand, this book offers in depth all the information you need to buy sparkling diamonds with confidence, including: What is a diamond? An in-depth look at factors affecting differences in quality and cost. Diamond grading reports—why all the information is important, and what it tells you. How to compare prices. How to spot differences in stones that may appear to be the same quality. How to protect yourself from misrepresentation. Questions to ask when buying any diamond. What to get in writing. How to get what you want within your budget. Important information about buying on the Internet ... and much more! Written by an “insider,” this easy-to-read guide is the “unofficial diamond bible” for anyone who wants to get the most for their money and enjoy what they have purchased.

In this companion volume to Gems & Jewelry Appraising, 2nd Edition, the first comprehensive book on appraising, Registered Master Valuer Anna M. Miller offers a comprehensive guide to antique, period and contemporary jewelry identification and appraisal. Offering clear, practical, insightful guidance with a wealth of photos and figures, Illustrated Guide to Jewelry Appraising, 2nd Edition contains expert information, case studies, typical problems, pricing data and key documents. Features include: A review of the appraiser's role and responsibilities Value approach methods that offer jewelers and appraisers clear standards for estimating value Complete instructions on doing full narrative jewelry descriptions A practical methodology to research and assemble data needed for an accurate estimation of value A complete Model Appraisal Document that readers can use as an example for their own documents An Appraisal Glossary covering all technical terms that will help appraisers communicate effectively All types of pieces are covered in detail, from rings, earrings, necklaces and pendants to chains, bracelets, brooches and cameos, as well as less common items such as charms and stickpins. Key aspects including design influences, costuming, social behavior and the significance of color in each time period are also explored, to give the appraiser a deeper understanding of the many elements that contribute to value. This one-of-a-kind reference is an essential working guide for all appraisers, jewelers, antique dealers, collectors, auctioneers, insurance adjustors and gem labs.

There is more to appraising jewelry than just being parable sales and a value determination. Then, all this able to put a dollar value on an item. The title of ap information, with clear jewelry descriptions, must be praiser distinguishes the individual who is able to iden succinctly put together with photographs and deliv tify, witness, estimate status, excellence, or potential ered to the client. ity, and to determine the authenticity of an article. Today's jewelry appraiser should also be cognizant Many factors impact on a thorough appraisal, espe of the vicissitudes of fashion, how changes impact the cially on estate and period jewelry. jewelry market in a substantial and vital manner in both design and style. A careful look must be given to Developing all this expertise is a lot to ask of practi tioners who only a decade ago were barely making a study of color psychology with an awareness of why specific gemstones and their colors and enamels of cer distinction between a well-written sales receipt and a professional appraisal report. tain colors were used in different periods. Industrial In the past few years bold changes have taken place developments, from machine stamped jewelry, the use in this field. It is now understood that standard ap of aniline dyes in clothing, and development of the praisal concepts and principles can be applied to the electric light, have influenced design and use of gem stones.

Newly updated and expanded, COLORED GEMSTONES gives you all the information you need to buy, collect, sell— or simply enjoy—sapphires, emeralds, rubies and other colored gemstones with confidence and knowledge. With more varieties than ever before to choose from, including altogether new gems, revolutionary new cuts and new ways to buy gems—such as Internet auctions and TV shopping—there has never been a more exciting time to buy or collect colored gemstones. But there are also new high-tech treatments and sophisticated frauds to look out for. Lack of information, error or misrepresentation can make the thrill of buying a gem or piece of jewelry confusing, intimidating, overwhelming and costly. Buyers need a source of expert guidance. This practical, comprehensive, easy-to-understand guide provides all the information you need in order to know what to look for, and what to look out for, including: What qualifies as a “gemstone”? How to evaluate color—and its impact on price. Deciding between a natural gem and an enhanced gem ... and new glass-gemstone compositions. Colored gemstone synthesis and treatment. What to ask when buying the stone. What to get in writing. How to get what you want within your budget. Price guides for popular gems, opals and synthetic stones. Important information about buying on the Internet. ... and much more! Written by an “insider,” this easy-to-read guide is the “unofficial colored gemstone bible” for anyone who wants to get the most for their moneyand enjoy what they have purchased.

Jewellery styles were influenced by wars, the economy, events like the Centennial Exposition in Philadelphia, and the growth of industrialisation. Sentiment was reflected in hair jewellery made from a loved one's hair, lockets containing family pictures, and pins bearing names and catch-phrases of importance to their period. This book gives you the historical background, the periods' fashion trends, and detailed descriptions of popular jewels, so you can have an even greater appreciation for the pieces in your collection. The book also includes information about: How jewellery is manufactured; How to determine what kind of metal an item is made from; Determining whether a stone is synthetic; A listing of maker's marks to help you identify and date pieces.

This revised edition covers the latest gems, synthetics, treatments and instruments. It is easy to use, practical and non-technical indicating how to identify diamonds, coloured gemstones and pearls, as well as separating them from fakes and look-alikes. The book explains what instruments are needed and how to use them, where to obtain such instruments and what should be seen for each gemstone. Anyone can learn to identify most of the gems and imitations found in the market place. This volume is the key to avoiding costly mistakes and recognising profitable opportunities.

What is a cabochon? What are the various types of gilding? What is vermeil? This accessible book—the first of its kind—offers concise explanations of key jewelry terms. The fascination with personal adornment is universal. It is a preoccupation that is primal, instinctive, and uniquely human. Jewelry encompasses a seemingly endless number of ornaments produced across time and in all cultures. The range of materials and techniques used in its construction is extraordinary, even revolutionary, with new substances and methods of fabrication added with every generation. In any given society, master artisans have devoted their time, energy, and talent to the fine art of jewelry making, creating some of the most spectacular objects known to humankind. This volume, geared toward jewelry makers, scholars, scientists, students, and fashionistas alike, begins with a lively introduction that offers a cultural history of jewelry and its production. The main text provides information on the most common, iconic, and culturally significant forms of jewelry and also covers materials, techniques, and manufacturing processes. Containing more than eighty color illustrations, this guide will be invaluable to all those wishing to increase their understanding and enjoyment of the art of jewelry.

Updated 5th Edition with new sites & museums! Learn Where & How to Dig, Pan and Mine Your Own Gems & Minerals SOUTHEAST Alabama • Arkansas • Florida • Georgia • Kentucky • Louisiana • Mississippi • Missouri • North Carolina • South Carolina • Tennessee • Virginia • West Virginia Whether you’re digging for the first time or are an experienced rockhound or “prospector,” with a simple rock hammer and a little luck, you too can strike it rich ... or at the very least, have fun trying. This guide offers you easy-to-use information on the ins and outs of “fee dig” mining, complete with locations, costs, tips on technique, entertaining legends and important information on everything from safety kits to the location of the nearest restrooms. Included are resources for use in identifying your finds, exploring the lapidary arts, and further pursuing an exciting—and possibly profitable—hobby. Equipment and Clothing: What you need and where to find it (or how to make it yourself). Mining Techniques: Step-by-step instructions on panning for gold, sluicing for gems and other methods. Gem and Mineral Sites: Directions and maps, hours, fees and equipment needed. Also includes info on guide services, local camping facilities and more. Museums and Mine Tours: Where to visit commercial and historical mines, as well as museums with exhibits of gems and minerals (for help in learning what to look for). Special Events and Tourist Information: Listings of regional events involving gems and minerals, and sources of general travel and tourism information for every state. Other Features: Where to find your birthstone ... your anniversary stone ... your zodiac stone; Index by State; Index by Gem/Mineral; U.S. State Gems & Minerals Chart; and more!