Antoinette Leonardo Matlins Knihy

The third edition of this accessible and knowledgeable guide to gem identification features updated information on new techniques and gems, including the high-pressure/high-temperature techniques used to treat some types of diamonds, methods for detecting diffusion techniques used to color sapphires, and new instruments for identification. Basic identification techniques are stressed, with instruction in setting up a lab, and discussion of instruments. More advanced techniques are then discussed. A chapter is included on antique and estate jewelry. Annotation ©2003 Book News, Inc., Portland, OR

This guide provides essential information for buying, collecting, selling, or enjoying sapphires, emeralds, rubies, and other colored gemstones with confidence. With an increasing variety of gems, new cuts, and innovative purchasing methods like Internet auctions and TV shopping, the market is more exciting than ever. However, buyers must be cautious of high-tech treatments and sophisticated frauds. Misunderstandings or misinformation can make the gem-buying experience confusing and costly, highlighting the need for expert guidance. This comprehensive and accessible resource covers crucial topics, including what qualifies as a "gemstone," how to evaluate color and its effect on price, and the differences between natural and enhanced gems, as well as new glass-gemstone compositions. It also addresses gemstone synthesis and treatment, what documentation to obtain, budget management, price guides for various gems, and important considerations for online purchases. Written by an industry insider, this guide serves as the "unofficial colored gemstone bible," ensuring readers can make informed decisions and fully enjoy their purchases.

This completely updated, revised and expanded edition by two experts explains how to buy diamonds, pearls, and other precious and popular gems and metals with confidence and knowledge. Also includes information on design and style, plus gemstone laboratory reports. 16 full-color plates; 100 illustrations.

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.