Rock Roles Facts Properties And Lore Of Gemstones

Excerpts from history and folklore trace the unusual beliefs and uses of gems since ancient times

This foundational study of gemstone lore presents a comprehensive history of precious and semi-precious stones and their purported properties. Author George Frederick Kunz reveals a treasure trove of thoroughly researched information about the various superstitions, symbolisms, uses, and metaphysical properties associated with specific gems.

Excerpts from history and folklore trace the unusual beliefs and uses of gems since ancient times

Gemstones is a comprehensive guide to the fascinating world of precious and semi-precious crystals.As well as the naturally occurring minerals that have long been prized as gemstones, such as diamonds, emeralds and rubies, the book covers 'organic gems', including pearls, amber and coral, and synthetic gems and simulants, or imitations.An introductory section examines the appeal of gemstones, the history and the popularity of collecting, the basic rock types, principles of crystal formation and physical properties, while the main encyclopedic section provides information on the origins and makeup of around 180 major stones, their properties and qualities, as well as major world sources.The latter sections of the book cover the cutting and finishing processes, the ways in which stones can be enhanced or 'improved' and offers pointers on starting a collection and exploring the subject in greater depth.

Each gem deposit-whether of primary origin in the parent rocks; or secondary as alluvial placers in valley floors, river gravels, or the sand of oceanic shelves presents an eloquent chronicle of the Earth's life story. It reveals to the expert the prodigious processes which formed the present crust of our planet, of which this volume discloses a small but exciting detail. The materials of the Earth's crust are the rocks. In this book, the author expounds on how they were formed, why they altered, why they became the cradles of precious gemstones, how they are categorized, and how they are now exploited by man. What initiates the growth of gemstones? How do they crystallize? Why do gemstones of the same species, originating from different sources, vary? What causes the occurrence of varieties? Why do diamonds, unlike other precious stones, occur not near the Earth's surface in its crust, but deep down beneath it in the upper mantle? These are only a few of the entrancing subjects discussed in this enlightening volume. The reader learns that the Earth is surprisingly alive and altering constantly-sometimes through slow and equable changes and at times by violent and tremendous cataclysms, events from which gemstones issue.

Gemstones of the World is truly the single volume that every hobbyist, jeweler, jewelry maker, and rockhound needs: it’s the cornerstone of the field. And this updated edition contains a host of new findings on "Gemstones for Collectors,” additional gems in the "Table of Constants,” and the "double fraction” figures that experts have long wanted--a very special new feature. All the gemstones are treated in their many variations: more than 1,500 full-color photos showcase each precious and semiprecious stone in both its rough, natural, and its polished and cut renditions. Each entry offers complete information on the gemstone’s formation, structure, physical properties, and characteristics, along with the best methods of working, cutting, and polishing it. There are even full treatments of lesser-known gems, from andalusite to vesuvian, and a special section is devoted to rocks as precious stones, including alabaster, onyx, obsidian, and fossils. Organic gem materials are also covered, such as coral, ivory, amber, and pearl. Charts and tables help collectors identify unknown gemstones and check for genuineness.

This A-Z guide to precious and semi-precious stones includes historical and cultural information, names and meanings, birthstones, historical and contemporary traditions, folklore, purported healing and mind-enhancing powers, and bibliography.