Artificial Gemstones [Hardcover]

Michael O'Donoghue (Author)

Book Description

Publication Date: September 1, 2005

Artificial gemstones have been well established in the trade for some time, but with further refinements in their manufacture, gemmologists worldwide are facing increasing problems with identification. In Artificial Gemstones, Michael O'Donoghue provides the definitive guide to the various manmade substitutes, thus enabling anyone handling gems to identify them accurately. Starting with the theory of synthetic gem manufacture and an explanation of the production methods used for growing and/or improving crystals, the book moves on to list and identify the materials themselves. The author lists the internal and external features and tests, and the book contains color illustrations to display the inclusions found in transparent materials. The book is completed by an extensive bibliography and a useful appendix of trade names.

Editorial Reviews

About the Author

Michael O'Donoghue is a director of GemA, The Gemmological Association and Gem Testing Laboratory of Great Britain and lecturer in charge of gemmology at London Metropolitan University. He has written approximately 20 books on gemstones, minerals and manmade crystals and has visited countries round the world in their pursuit. He is a member of the British Association for Crystal Growth.

Product Details

• Hardcover: 294 pages
• Publisher: Robert Hale (September 1, 2005)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 071980311X
• ISBN-13: 978-0719803116
• Product Dimensions: 9.1 x 6.5 x 1.3 inches
• Shipping Weight: 1.6 pounds
• Average Customer Review: 3.0 out of 5 stars  See all reviews (1 customer review)
• Amazon Best Sellers Rank: #3,658,669 in Books (See Top 100 in Books)

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Customer Reviews

Most Helpful Customer Reviews

1 of 3 people found the following review helpful:

3.0 out of 5 stars It's okay...I guess., November 12, 2010

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henznyc1 - See all my reviews

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This review is from: Artificial Gemstones (Paperback)

It's an okay book, and the pictures are kind of dull and so-so,
I just know I have purchased other gem books that
would kick this book's butt, easily!
It's written by a British man, so there are plenty
of words that the British use and they would know exactly what he meant
by those words, but as an American, you might be left to wonder, "What did
he mean by that?" So if you're British, go ahead and learn about artificial gems
from this book. If you're not British, I would advise you to not spend your money to buy this book.
It will make you irritated and then bored, and then sleepy. If you want a book that will make
you want to retire for the night, I can recommend this book.