Lapidary Journal, January, 1993
This second edition of Arem's beautifully illustrated book on Gems and Jewelry adds new photos and updated information, making this book a classic guide for the buyer of gems and jewelry. Arem, a well known gemologist, mineralogist, author, and photographer, writes clearly and concisely about the many kind of gems which are used for jewelry and ornamental purposed, including popular mineral species, organic gems, decorative stones, collector's gems, and man-made gems. The consumer is introduced to gems by a discussion of their origin and history and their properties. Explanations of cabochon and facet cutting methods help the reader understand the marketing of gems. The species listings start with the traditional leaders, diamond, beryl, and corundum, followed by the increasingly important garnet group. Each section contains information about variations, localities, fine examples, and consumer tips, enhanced by fascinating historical references. Illustrations of crystals augment the many colored cut stone and jewelry pictures. Quartz gems are described in the next section, confirming the widespread acceptance of quartz as a versatile material for faceting, cabbing, carving, and objects d'art. Other species are opal, topaz, jade, tourmaline, feldspar, spodumene, chrysobe- ryl, peridot, lapis lazuli, turquoise, spinel, zircon, and tanzanite. Consumer tips are especially helpful. Buyers are warned about incorrect names, dyes, irradiation, poor cuts, imitations, and look-alikes. Also useful for advanced consumers and students is a quick reference chart in the back of the book giving the major characteristics of 165 species sometimes used as gems. Other charts list the world's great diamonds, diamond color grading systems, pearl weights, trade names, and birthstones. Because it is so thorough and has such great color, this book is an uncommon bargain. Anyone interest in gems or jewelry will enjoy it. A book like this should be stocked a jewelry counters and gem shops, not just book stores.

About the Author
Joel E Arem received his B.A. in geology from Brooklyn College in New York, an M.A. in geology and Ph.D in mineralogy from Harvard University. A former curator at the Smithsonian Institution, Arem is consultant, author, photographer, lecturer, educator in the field of gemology and mineralogy.

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