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

Very pleased with my purchase, has clear and concise information, places stones in families and covers MOHs scale of hardness etc very informative and interesting as it also covers mining and treatment too!! A good read! Plus I bought my book as used and it was immaculate from a seller on here so thank you to that seller too!!

Having studied silver jewellery making, I've started to use more interesting gemstones and beads. I ordered the book after reading a previous review about how the book gives examples on uses in jewellery making. I read it from cover to cover when it arrived! It has lots of lovely photos with inspiring setting ideas and tips on how best to use the stones. I found it fascinating learning more about all the stones - both popular and more unusual - in an easy to follow way. A real 'gem' to add to my reference books!

Not good. Too simple. I found myself several times having to google things for more insight. It has allot of images and pictures but the actual information feels lacking and incomplete. I bought this book after reading allot of the reviews but with hindsight I noticed most people bought this book as a gift, so why they chose to make reviews having never read it I dont know?!I have returned it.

A invaluable guide to gemstones giving a full description of each type of gem and a wealth of information about variation of each stone and their sources. History of stone cuts are given and information on buying gems and synthetic reproductions given.

I liked the lay out and excellent use of photos in this book. It is too large to carry around on a daily basis, and at the same time makes an excellent desk reference for people who are learning about gem stones. In my opinion, it hits the spot for beginning gemologists.