A guide to the identification, structure, and uses of precious and semi-precious stones, novelty stones, agates, and crystals.

"The practical and comprehensive on-the-go nature guide."--Page [4] of cover.

-Lavishly illustrated, Gems of the World is intended for anyone who has ever been fascinated by crystals, jewelry, and gems, from general readers to seasoned professionals. It is a fine addition to general collections.- --Booklist, on the previous edition Gems of the World is a practical and comprehensive guide to the identification and properties of precious and semiprecious gems, novelty stones, agates and crystals. This edition has been revised and thoroughly updated. Changes and new features include updated maps of recently established diamond bourses and geographical country changes, plus new gem varieties and localities where they are found, new techniques for producing synthetic gemstones and simulants, and much more. There is comprehensive information on gems: gem formation mining the diamond industry conflict diamonds ethical sourcing crystal structure (diagrams and cuts) optical and physical properties fashioning and cutting (properties and uses) gemstone cuts for diamonds buying a diamond buying colored gemstones imitation and synthetic gemstones gemstone enhancement history of gems famous diamonds caring for gemstones and jewelry a color key of 139 gemstones. The text describes the world's diamond cutting and trading centers, the -diamond pipeline- that flows from mine to retail, and information on the gemstone industry, ethical mining, conflict diamonds and the emergence of new diamond centers. The description directory of gemstones is organized by their chemical composition. The 139 profiles describe each gem's geology, chemistry, properties (such as color, refractive index, and luster), cultural use in history and its value in jewelry. Photographs show the gem as a raw crystal, in common cuts, polished for use, and in some cases, also in a piece of jewelry. Gems of the World is an ideal reference for gemologists, collectors and general readers.

An important feature of the book is a comprehensive visual identification key. This makes it easy for the reader to recognize the type of a stone, and so move on to the correct section of the book for a detailed identification. The main part of the book examines each major group of gems from every part of the world, with each group divided into clearly structured units. The first section deals with precious gems in their many forms, with illustrations of priceless jewellery. The second and longer section concentrates on the semiprecious and novelty stones, the agates and the crystals used aby many professional and amateur jewellers and purchased by the majority of collectors and jewellery enthusiasts.

This is the first comprehensive firefly guide for eastern and central North America ever published. It is written for all those who want to know more about the amazing world of lightning bugs and learn the secrets hidden in the flash patterns of the 75+ species found in the eastern and central U.S. and Canada. As an independent researcher working with numerous university teams, naturalist Lynn Frierson Faust, “The Lightning Bug Lady,” has spent decades tracking the behavior and researching the habitats of these fascinating creatures. Based on her twenty-five years of field work, this book is intended to increase understanding and appreciation of bioluminescent insects while igniting enthusiasm in a fun and informative way. Species accounts are coupled with historical background and literary epigraphs to engage and draw readers young and old into the world of these tiny sparklers. A chart documenting the flash patterns of the various species will aid in identification. Clear photos illustrate the insects’ distinguishing physical characteristics, while habitats, seasonality, and common names are provided in clear, easy-to-understand yet scientifically accurate language. The guide will be welcomed by everyone who wants to learn more about fireflies' and glow-worms' unique traits and about their fragile niche in the ecosystem. FEATURES Over 600 color photographsDetailed accounts and anatomical diagrams of 75+ species, as well as aids in distinguishing between similar speciesA first-of-its-kind flash-pattern chart that folds out on heavy-weight paper • Extensive scientific details written in an understandable and engaging wayColorful, common names—Twilight Bush Baby, Shadow Ghosts, and Snappy Syncs, and more—for easy species identification based on flash patternsTips on ideal sites and times of year for firefly watchingConservation-oriented approach

The definitive guide to rocks, minerals and gems, this title includes an introduction to rocks and minerals and how they form, and a quick guide to what you need and where to look. There is also a complete guide to identifying rocks and minerals and everything you need to know to start building a collection. Packed with fun facts and practical ......

“Profiles 600 of the most stunning, most wonderfully adapted beetles around . . . The result is a work that is nothing short of magnificent.” —Wired When renowned British geneticist J. B. S. Haldane was asked what could be inferred about God from a study of his works, Haldane replied, “An inordinate fondness for beetles.” With 350,000 known species, and scientific estimates that millions more have yet to be identified, their abundance is indisputable as is their variety. They range from the delightful summer firefly to the one-hundred-gram Goliath beetle. Beetles offer a dazzling array of shapes, sizes, and colors that entice scientists and collectors across the globe. The Book of Beetles celebrates the beauty and diversity of this marvelous insect. Six hundred significant beetle species are covered, with each entry featuring a distribution map, basic biology, conservation status, and information on cultural and economic significance. Full-color photos show the beetles both at their actual size and enlarged to show details, such as the sextet of spots that distinguish the six-spotted tiger beetle or the jagged ridges of the giant-jawed sawyer beetle. Based in the most up-to-date science and accessibly written, the descriptive text will appeal to researchers and armchair coleopterists alike. The humble beetle continues to grow in popularity, taking center stage in biodiversity studies, sustainable agriculture programs, and even the dining rooms of adventurous and eco-conscious chefs. The Book of Beetles is certain to become the authoritative reference on these remarkably adaptable and beautiful creatures. “Photographs of more than 600 colorful, glossy species, resembling bejeweled broaches morethan creepy crawlies, are presented at actual size.” —Publishers Weekly