Celebrities and fashion runways are glittering with gemstones, more than ever these days. But for the growing hordes of jewellery makers, gemstones can prove very daunting to work with. Nancy Alden of the popular Beadworks series gives readers a full introduction to the craft and, in her typical fashion, takes all the anxiety out of the process. Readers will learn how to create stunning gemstone earrings, necklaces and bracelets - with a gem and corresponding project to complement any look. Plus today s wide availability and competitive pricing of precious and semi-precious stones, makes what had once been exclusive, expensive projects completely doable.

As well as diamonds, emeralds, rubies and sapphires, over 100 gems are featured, with full descriptions, technical details, and tips on how to check for fakes; illustrated throughout with fabulous color photographs to make identification easier.

"Gems and Gemstones" features nearly 300 color images of cut gems, precious and semiprecious stones, gem-quality mineral specimens, and fine jewelry to be unveiled in the new Grainger Hall of Gems at the Field Museum in Chicago.

A follow-up to Ana Victoria Calderon's Creative Watercolor, Creative Watercolor and Mixed Media combines watercolor with a whole new lineup of materials and depicts a variety of natural and mystical motifs.

This book gives you all the information you need to buy, collect, sell or simply enjoy sapphires, emeralds, rubies and other coloured gemstones with confidence and knowledge. With more varieties than ever before to choose from, including altogether new gems, revolutionary new cuts and new ways to buy gems -- such as Internet auctions and TV shopping -- there has never been a more exciting time to buy or collect coloured gemstones. But there are also new high-tech treatments and sophisticated frauds to look out for. Lack of information, error or misrepresentation can make the thrill of buying a gem or piece of jewellery confusing, intimidating, overwhelming and costly. Buyers need a source of expert guidance. This practical, comprehensive, easy-to-understand guide provides all the information you need in order to know what to look for, and what to look out for, including: What qualifies as a "gemstone"?; How to evaluate colour -- and its impact on price; Deciding between a natural gem and an enhanced gem . . . and new glass-gemstone compositions; Coloured gemstone synthesis and treatment; What to get in writing; How to get what you want within your budget; Price guides for popular gems, opals and synthetic stones; Important information about buying on the Internet; What to ask when buying the stone . . . and much more! Written by an "insider", this easy-to-read guide is the "unofficial coloured gemstone bible" for anyone who wants to get the most for their money and enjoy what they have purchased.

From time immemorial, crystals have been used for healing--and legend even has it that long ago, people knew how to store information inside these precious stones. How does their incredible magic work? Through this exquisitely illustrated, all-color guide, discover the many ways crystals can cure physical, emotional, and spiritual problems; divine the future; and enhance psychic powers. See which ones work best as aids to meditation and visualization, to clear a room of negative energy, to promote creativity, and for fortune-telling. There’s advice on buying, purifying, and charging the stone; crystal folklore; and a breathtaking gallery rich in information.

Gemstones are naturally beautiful, but you can make them glisten and shine. This beginner's guide covers all the techniques you need to know: tumbling, cutting, face polishing and more. It pertains to a wide range of popular gemstones, from agates to turquoise, and it provides information about recommended equipment and supplies. Plus, it introduces jewelry making with seven projects. By following the authors' simple approach, you'll create finished stones worthy of displaying, selling or making into jewelry.