Practical Gemmology; A study of the identification of gem-stones, pearls and ornamental minerals [4th edition] [Hardcover]

Robert Webster (Author)

Book Description

Publication Date: June 1966

Practical Gemmology has for decades been recognized as the standard work for those learning how to identify gems and ornamental minerals. It is recommended by educational authorities as a course textbook, and it is also particularly suitable as a self-instructor for those entering or hoping to advance in the jewellery and gem trades, or for the keen amateur. The 21 sections comprise notes on the formation of gem materials, and a section on luminescence and electrical effects bring a more modern approach to this part of the subject. More information is given on the inclusions seen in gemstones, and the newer synthetic stones are discussed. The methods used in cutting gemstones and details of more of the unusual gemstones now cut and polished are also discussed.

--This text refers to an alternate Hardcover edition.

Editorial Reviews

About the Author

Robert Webster FGA was originally in the jewellery and pawnbroking trade, and won the Fellowship Diploma of the Gemmological Association of Great Britain with distinction in 1934. In 1946 the same association awarded him their coveted Research Diploma and in that year he joined London Gem Testing Laboratory, then in Hatton Garden, where he remained until he retired in 1971. He was a noted lecturer in various London colleges for decades and an honorary visiting lecturer to the Detective Training School of the London Police. He travelled widely, lecturing, visiting gem laboratories and mining and cutting centres in many parts of the world. --This text refers to an alternate Hardcover edition.

Product Details

• Hardcover: 209 pages
• Publisher: Antique Collectors Club Ltd; 4th edition (June 1966)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 0719800110
• ISBN-13: 978-0719800115
• Product Dimensions: 7.3 x 4.7 x 0.8 inches
• Shipping Weight: 7.2 ounces
• Average Customer Review: 5.0 out of 5 stars  See all reviews (1 customer review)
• Amazon Best Sellers Rank: #2,281,189 in Books (See Top 100 in Books)

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Most Helpful Customer Reviews

6 of 7 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars Find beauty in the dirt, November 23, 2007

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a-to-b books "a-to-b books" (Hollywood) - See all my reviews

This review is from: Practical Gemmology; A study of the identification of gem-stones, pearls and ornamental minerals [4th edition] (Hardcover)

I like gemstones more than money.

Originally written in 1943, a textbook classic on gemology, for students and a self-instructor for jewelers. 21 sections comprise notes on the formation of gem materials and the chemistry of it. Includes refractive index, color, and specific gravity. This 4th edition has a new section on luminescence and electrical effects.

Diagrams and charts. 210 pages, British book.