Enjoy learning the tools of the gem trade from two experts.
As in Jewelry & Gems: The Buying Guide, Matlins and Bonanno make gem identification fun and interesting rather than “tedious”—even for those without a scientific inclination!
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 look-alikes. 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.
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.