Gem Identification Made Easy (6th Edition): A Hands-On Guide to More Confident Buying & Selling
Gem Identification Made Easy is the first and only book that explains in non-technical terms how to identify diamonds and colored gems, and how to separate natural gems from imitations, treated stones, synthetics, and lookalikes. The book's approach is direct and practical, and its style easy to understand. In fact, with this highly accessible guide, anyone can begin to master gem identification. Includes over 150 photographs and over 80 illustrations in full color!
Using a simple, step-by-step system, the authors explain how to properly use essential but uncomplicated instruments to identify stones, what to look for gemstone by gemstone, and how to set up a basic lab at modest cost. Three of the instruments are inexpensive, portable, pocket instruments that, when used together, can identify almost 85% of all precious and popular stones.
The key to avoiding costly mistakes and recognizing profitable opportunities is knowing both what to look for and what to look out for.
Gem Identification Made Easy will help you:
- Open your eyes to the types of treatments, imitations, synthetics, lookalikes, and fakes in the gem market today.
- Learn how to tell the difference between them. Quickly spot:
- Synthetics, including synthetic emeralds and diamonds
- Filled diamonds
- Diffused "blue" sapphires and "red" rubies
- HPHT-treated diamonds
- ... and much more!
- Determine how to spot the newest "composite" imitations.
- Learn how to identify recently discovered gems such as “Mandarin” garnet, red “emerald,” and North Carolina's chromium-rich emeralds.
- Discover new treatments such as surface coatings to create “fancy color” diamonds and improve or change the color of many gemstones.
- Know when to seek help from a professional gemologist or lab.
- Become more professional in your business or hobby.
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Book details
- Author
- Antoinette Matlins, PG, FGA, Antonio C. Bonanno, FGA, ASA, MGA
- Imprint
- GemStone Press, an imprint of Turner Publishing Company
- Published
- Pages
- 400
- Formats
- Hardcover
- Subjects
- Antiques & Collectibles › Jewelry
- Topics
- gemology · diamonds · colored gemstones · synthetic stones · gem buying and selling · jewelry appraisal · gemological instruments
- ISBN-13
- 9780997014556
About the author
ANTOINETTE MATLINS, PG, FGA, is the most widely read author in the world on gems and jewelry, with over one million copies of her seven books in print across nine languages. Her books include Jewelry & Gems at Auction: The Definitive Guide to Buying & Selling at the Auction House & on Internet Auction Sites, Engagement & Wedding Rings: The Definitive Buying Guide for People in Love and Gem Identification Made Easy.
Matlins holds the Accredited Gemologists Association’s highest award for excellence in gemology and served as gemology editor of National Jeweler magazine. She is also the author of the "Gemstones" chapter in the Encyclopedia of Investments, second edition.
When not writing, Matlins leads the Accredited Gemologists Association’s nationwide campaign against gemstone investment telemarketing scams and is retained by clients worldwide to acquire fine, rare or unusual gems and jewels. Her books educate consumers on buying, selling and evaluating gems and jewelry.