Customer Reviews

Introduction To Lapidary (Jewelry Crafts)

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Introduction to Lapidary by Pansy D. Kraus is a 'breath of fresh air'. Kraus provides a general introduction to Lapidary as a hobby and the many different techniques that can be applied to gems (Agates), precious (Diamonds) and semi-precious stones (Sapphires). Kraus includes many pictures and photos together with an easy to read common sense approach to Lapidary and the equipment.

Each section provides information on equipment, methods, materials, and techniques for producing that perfect work of art !

Key sections include; a brief history of lapidary, rock tumbling (polishing rough shaped stones), cabochons (polished curved stones - eg: Agates), lapping gemstones (flat polished stones), gem sphere and bead making, inlay/mosaics, gem carving (eg: Jade), and faceting (eg: Polishing Sapphire and Topaz).

Kraus has also included a section on general technical data that is essential for any one interested in Lapidary. Tables and charts are provided on; gem and material properties, conversion tables, critical angles and key speeds for cutting and polishing stones.

An additional section is also provided with useful references and magazines.

Lapidary for Beginners is an essential for anyone interested in starting this interesting and fascinating hobby. A good place to start for beginners which will give you a great reference as you pursue the different kinds of lapidary.

This book is great for beginners. It contains a lot of good information covering a wide range of lapidary subjects; such as faceting, cabbing and tumbling. It also covers most of the equipment you would need and gives advice an purchasing the equipment.

Oh my goodness! Such a great resource for information on all aspects of lapidary and jewelry design! This is a must-have reference!

This book 'rocks'. It contains detailed info on all the basic procedures with a main focus on cabochon and faceting of colored gemstones. The equipment shown in the photos may seem dated, but the techniques are still current and the advice and how-to examples are wonderful. Even has great details on gem carving, which is hard to find in todays books. Great value as well.

This book is so basic that it is almost useless. Each subject matter is introduced so briefly that very little help is provided. If you know absolutely nothing about working with rocks and minerals then it is a start, otherwise choose a better book.

It was what I expected. Some very good information. It enabled me to understand what I need and where my interests lie.

The book arrived quickly and was a good price. It is a good book for beginners in rock grinding and related subjects. It will get a beginner started. I recommend it.

I was surprised that there was so little concrete information on technique. it is a good overview though.