Firefly Guide to Gems
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Overview
A reference guide to gems, semi-precious stones and crystals.
Gemstones and crystals are used for jewelry, industry, lasers and precision technology. Firefly Guide to Gems is a practical, compact guide to the identification and use of precious and semi-precious stones, novelty stones, agates and crystals.
An introduction explains geology, chemistry and gemstone properties in clear and accessible terms. Key aspects of gemstones are explained such as crystal structures and optical and physical properties.
The first section of the book focuses on precious gems in their many forms, with illustrations of priceless jewelry. Practical information includes:
- Fashioning and cutting
- Types and shapes of cut
- Collecting
- Handling and storing gemstones
- Weighing and measuring stones
The second and main section supplies complete descriptions of a wide range of gems, organized by chemical composition, for instance:
- Carbon (diamond)
- Aluminum oxide (saphire and ruby)
- Phosphate (turquoise)
- Silica (opal)
A fascinating profile of each gem is accompanied with color photographs of the raw crystal, common cuts, and finally polished for use in jewelry. At-a-glance charts provide technical details such as refractive index, crystal group, luster, hardness and cleavage for each gem.
Easy-to-read and abundantly illustrated, Firefly Guide to Gems is ideal for collectors and rockhounds.
Synopsis
A guide to the identification, structure, and uses of precious and semi-precious stones, novelty stones, agates, and crystals.
Pat Moore - KLIATT
A little gem in itself, this guide is rich in information. A lengthy introduction considers gem formation, mining, crystal structure and physical and optical properties of gems in addition to a history of gems and some detailed material on famous gems and the luck—or curse—they supposedly brought to their owners. The detailed pages on each gem considered are not organized alphabetically but are classified by chemical composition from carbon (diamonds) through oxides (including sapphires) to organics (pearls). Each gem has a page of its own with illustrations of color and cuts and a fount of technical information, such as chemical composition and refractive index. Detailed maps of six continents illustrate the locations where each type of gem is found. A valuable reference guide. KLIATT Codes: JSA—Recommended for junior and senior high school students, advanced students, and adults. 2004, Firefly, 224p. illus. maps., Ages 12 to adult.
Editorials
National Science Teachers Association Recommends -
Makes the grade... a clear introduction to the classification of rocks and basic crystal structure... excellent section of gem descriptions.Choice -
Small but informative, handsome, and richly illustrated book... well-written and well-illustrated... highly recommended.E-Streams
This expert knows his material expertly and provides an intriguing and colorful look at the world of gemstones... a gem of a guide.VOYA
The books in the Firefly Guide series are characterized by their small size, small but clear typeface, splendid color illustrations, and densely informative text. They are generally written by distinguished authorities in the field. Their low cost and the high quality of the information and of the books themselves make them well worth considering for high school libraries. Guide to Gems is written by an examiner for the Gemmological Association of Great Britain. Geology students, as well as those interested in gemstones and jewelry, will find here a wealth of information. The text is enhanced by many beautifully clear color photographs of gem crystals, gems, and jewelry, and by drawings of crystalline structure and faceting. The introduction explains gem formation, mining procedures, the physical properties of gemstones, the cutting of gemstones, the history of gems and famous diamonds, gem lore, and birthstones. Next are descriptions of individual gems, both precious and semiprecious, including many that will likely be unfamiliar to the average reader. As a bonus, "organics" such as pearl, coral, ivory, and jet are considered as are gold, silver, and platinum. Maps show important gem locations in the world. This book is so informative, so inclusive, and so beautifully designed that it should find a place in every high school library. The only problem may be hanging onto it. The series also includes guides to the human body, global hazards, fossils, flags of the world, and space. (Firefly Guides).. VOYA Codes 5Q 3P S A/YA (Hard to imagine it being any better written; Will appeal with pushing; Senior High, defined as grades 10 to 12; Adult-marketed book recommended for YoungAdults). 2003, Firefly, 224p.; Glossary. Index. Illus. Photos. Maps., Trade pb. Ages 15 to Adult.—Rayna Patton
KLIATT
A little gem in itself, this guide is rich in information. A lengthy introduction considers gem formation, mining, crystal structure and physical and optical properties of gems in addition to a history of gems and some detailed material on famous gems and the luck—or curse—they supposedly brought to their owners. The detailed pages on each gem considered are not organized alphabetically but are classified by chemical composition from carbon (diamonds) through oxides (including sapphires) to organics (pearls). Each gem has a page of its own with illustrations of color and cuts and a fount of technical information, such as chemical composition and refractive index. Detailed maps of six continents illustrate the locations where each type of gem is found. A valuable reference guide. KLIATT Codes: JSA—Recommended for junior and senior high school students, advanced students, and adults. 2004, Firefly, 224p. illus. maps., Ages 12 to adult.—Pat Moore