Gem Cutting

By John Sinkankas
A Lapidary’s Manual
Van Nostrand Reinhold Company
1984 ISBN 0-442-27630-3

Van Nostrand Reinhold Company writes:

What could be a more helpful tool for the lapidarist, beginner or expert, than this new edition of the gem cutter’s bible?

This expanded and updated volume thoroughly examines advances in the lapidary arts over the past twenty years. Recent discoveries of natural gemstones—some of them previously unknown in lapidary quality—plus the production of synthetic gemstones and the increased use of diamond abrasives and polishing agents are investigated in this classic guide to properties and treatments of gem materials.
This reference manual, packed with over 200 illustrations, continues to stress simplicity in equipment and technique. Gem cutting methods that have withstood the test of time are given with crystal clear instructions. Useful money-saving tips on how to make lapidary tools are included as well. Expert gemologist John Sinkankas provides valuable guidance on:

- gemstones—sawing, grinding, lapping, sanding, polishing, and drilling
- cabochons and how to cut them
- faceted gems—how to cut them and the equipment for cutting
- spheres and beads
- tumbling
- carving and engraving
- mosaic and inlay work

The last chapter provides a summary of many dozens of gem materials and how they may be successfully cut, the result of Sinkankas’s many years of hands on experience.

About the author
John Sinkankas is the author of the first two editions of Gem Cutting, published by Van Nostrand Reinhold, as well as many other books over 100 articles for popular and scientific journals.