Dr. Carl A. Francis, Curator, Harvard Mineralogical Museum
"Richard Wise's new book is a real contribution to the gemology literature...an excellent primer for the aspiring connnoisseur."

Morgan Beard, Editor-in-chief, Colored Stone Magazine
"This book takes a much needed sledgehammer to the industry's conventional wisdom about what makes a gemstone precious

Gloria Lieberman, Chairman, Jewelry Department, Skinner Auctions, Boston: Peer Review
"This book stands well above all the gemstone books I have read and there have been many."

Book Description
As the sub-title suggests, Secrets of the Gem Trade is the consumer's guide to precious gemstones. Divided into two parts: In plain non-technical language, Part I redefines preciousness and gently guides the reader toward a real understanding of those criteria that make a gemstone. Part II contains a series of individual essays that apply the criteria of connoisseurship to 35 of today's most important gemstones. The book covers precious stones old and new including diamond, pearl, tourmaline, sapphire, chalcedony, spinel, ruby, and garnet

About the Author
Richard W. Wise is a graduate of the Gemological Institute of America's Graduate Gemologist Program and is president of R. W. Wise, Goldsmiths, Inc. He is a well know writer and his articles on gemstones have appeared in Gems & Gemology, National Jeweler, Colored Stone and many other publications

FROM THE PUBLISHER

Written by one of the world's foremost gemologists, this authoritative and beautiful book about gemstones puts the consumer in the driver's seat at last by revealing the often hidden trade secrets of how to grade, classify and value gemstones. Whether you are a jeweler, collector, dealer or just a plain jewelry lover, you will learn the true principles of connoisseurship. Structured as a complete introduction and analysis of the gem trade, with over 125 color photos, up-to-date facts, insights and anecdotes, it is an excellent reference on over 40 varieties of precious gemstones and pearls.

About the Author:
The author, Richard W. Wise is a graduate gemologist, veteran gem dealer, and writer specializing in gemstones. His articles have appeared in Gems and Gemology, Colored Stone, JQ and Lapidary Journal magazines. A former gemology columnist for National Jeweler and contributing editor with Gemkey Magazine and Gem Market News, he has traveled the world seeking gems and numerous anecdotes and stores about his adventures in Burma, Brazil and the Australian outback are included in Secrets of the Gem Trade.

FROM THE CRITICS

Colored Stone Magazine

...This book takes a much-needed sledgehammer to the industry's conventional wisdom about what makes a gemstone precious, and in the process builds a solid foundation for anyone who wants to understand the true beauty and value of gemstones

WHAT PEOPLE ARE SAYING

...This book stands well above all the gemstone books I have ever read, and there have been many. Richard Wise has traveled the world acquiring his expertise and has presented it in a well written format that conveys his love of the material. Reading this book is a wonderful adventure that would benefit both the amateur and professional alike. (Chairperson, Jewelry Department, Skinner, Boston) — Gloria Lieberman