Precious Stones

By Dr Max Bauer
Translated from the German by L.J.Spencer
Charles E Tuttle Company
1969 ISBN 8048-0489-3

Charles E Tuttle Company writes:

A popular account of their characters, occurrence, and application, with an introduction to their determination for mineralogists, lapidaries, and jewelers with an appendix on pearls and coral from the original edition and up-to-date material on synthetic gems and the cultured pearl.

Originally published in 1896 in Germany, Precious Stones was translated and brought up to date in 1903 prior to its publication in England. It is without doubt one of the most comprehensive studies of gems ever published.

Long out of print, Precious Stones appeared high on the list of a response made by antiquarian book dealers who were asked which books they would most like to see reprinted. Although the technology applicable to gems has made enormous strides in this century, the basic information contained in Precious Stones remain valid.

Part One is devoted to a consideration of the mineral characteristics which are of importance to the specialist in gems; a general consideration of the type of occurrence of precious stones; and material relating to the application and working of these stones.

Part Two contains a detailed account of every mineral which has been used for ornamental purposes, with special reference to precious stones.

Part Three epitomizes the characters to be relied on in determining precious stones and distinguishing them from other precious stones and from imitations.

Up-to-date information on synthetic gems and the cultured pearl is included in the appendices to the new edition.

Precious Stones deserves a place in the reference library of all professional people who are concerned with gems and mineralogy.