The Bottom Line
An excellent book that you'll refer to often. Great advice from a gemstone pro.
Pros
- Fantastic color photos.
- Clearly written, easy-read format.
- Abundant details about each gem.
Cons
- Some may want longer text.
Description
- Learn how and why we should care for gems in a specific way.
- Includes care details for jewelry metals.
- Chemistry of gems discussed in an easy-to-understand manner; helps us understand proper care.
- Author includes interesting bits of history and folklore about many gems.
- Text is accompanied by hundreds of color photos. Includes a glossary and Mohs Hardness scale.
- Details of variations within each gem family. Tips that some gems aren't what they appear to be.
Guide Review - "Gem Care" - Book Review
There's a great deal of information packed in this revised edition of "Gem Care," by Fred Ward. I've noticed a few reviews of the prior edition that complain the text isn't long enough. I haven't seen the older book, but if it is anything like this one the text doesn't need to be longer. Mr. Ward says exactly what he wants to say without dancing around the subject forever. Along with gem care, you'll learn the history and folklore of stones, about variations within each family, current markets, enhancements, and more. Learn which stones can be cleaned with ultrasonic and steam cleaners, whether to avoid light, and how heat affects each gem. This is a fantastic book that you might want to take along with you when you shop for jewelry.
