The Dorling Kindersley Handbook of Gemstones is packed with more than 800 vivid full-colour photographs of more than 130 varieties of cut and uncut stones organic gemstones and precious metals. With authoritative text clear photography and a systematic approach this concise guide to identification enables you to recognize each gemstone instantly. Photo-Encyclopedic Approach Each expertly written entry combines a precise description with annotated photographs to highlight the gemstone's chief characteristics and distinguishing features. Additional colour illustrations and photographs show uncut stones colour variations and a range of popular cuts while colour-coded bands provide at-a-glance facts for quick reference. Identification Made Easy For beginners and established enthusiasts alike the Dorling Kindersley Handbook of Gemstones explains what a gemstone is how and where gemstones occur what natural properties they possess and how they have been fashioned and imitated through the ages. To help you in the initial stages of identification a colour key illustrates the variety of colours found within natural and synthetic gemstones. A concise glossary explains the relevant scientific and technical terms.