The Bottom Line
An excellent guide that gets you familiar with the basics, then takes off on an in-depth journey through the world of gemstones. Valuable advice that you'll refer to often.
Pros
- Fantastic color photos throughout.
- Price comparisons and gem evaluation info.
- The facts you need to make a good purchase.
Cons
- None
Description
- First chapter is an easy-to-understand tutorial that provides a background for remaining chapters.
- Shapes and cutting styles are thoroughly explained; pages packed with color photos reinforce text.
- Excellent tutorials on carat weight and color.
- Author teaches you to judge cut, clarity, transparency.
- A chapter devoted to cat's eye and star stones; learn many evaluation tips.
- Chapters devoted to gemstone treatments, synthetic gemstones, and deceptive practices.
- Facts to help you care for your gemstones.
- A large section devoted to gemstone descriptions. Specific details about popular gemstone families.
Guide Review - "Gemstone Buying Guide" - Review
Renée Newman's book takes us on a dual pathway to educate us about colored gemstones. In-depth discussions about cut, clarity, color, carat weight, enhancements, and other important topics teach us about those qualities, and how they interact affect gemstone pricing. The result--specific knowledge and the confidence to be a more savvy consumer. The only area that does not include pricing tips is the long chapter that gives us very specific details about individual gemstones and gemstone families. The color photographs of gems and jewelry throughout this book are gorgeous and educational, reinforcing every topic discussed. Colored gem enthusiasts will refer to this excellent book on a regular basis.
