Jewelry & Gems―The Buying Guide, 8th Edition: How to Buy Diamonds, Pearls, Colored Gemstones, Gold & Jewelry with Confidence and Knowledge

I can see why it's referred to as "The Unofficial Bible" for Gem & Jewelry Buyers. I bought it for trying to value the 200+ colored gemstones I purchased in Thailand over a 2 year period (also has chapters devoted to diamonds & pearls). I realize that this is most accurately done by a gemologist with a GG certification issued by the GIA but this book had enough information to allow me to easily decide which stones were valuable enough to warrant the cost of a GIA appraisal and even to know which questions to ask for each variety of stone if that appraisal seems "off". It contains information on expected/accepted gemstone treatments used (ex. heat treatment) and undesirable treatments (diffusion, fracture filling) for each variety of gemstone. It also contains a price chart showing price per carat according to weight and color for every popular gem as well as many one might be unfamiliar with. There's also information about countries of origin, common carat sizes and newer gemstones gaining popularity. Also discusses all the ways a stones can be misrepresented and how to get exactly the gemstone you expect and for which you are paying.A father and daughter team have been writing and updating this guide since 1984. Out of curiosity I looked up the meanings of the letters following their names. Both have FGA, (Fellow of the Gemmological Association of Great Britain) following their names as well as PG (professional gemologist) In addition the father has an MGA (Master Gemologist Appraiser. This is the highest award offered by the American Society of Appraisers. To receive it, a person must complete the MGA course, pass the MGA tests and have a gemologist diploma, an accredited ASA gem lab, and at least 3 to 5 years appraisal experience) and an ASA (Accredited Senior Appraiser of ASA ( the American Society of Appraisers). Must pass an ethics and appraisal exam, submit sample appraisals for peer review, be an accredited member of ASA and have a minimum of five years of full-time appraisal experience) following his name. I don't think anyone can contest their knowledge and credentials.

This is my second time buying. If you’re looking for a book that would give you a way to understand viably, clasificación of each stone including Diamonds this is the book for you.

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This is a wonderful book. I have worn jewelry all my life but have had very little knowledge about different colors of gold or what carat really means. I didn't know about the hardness of gemstones or the different colors of some of them. I now know how to look at jewelry when I go to a jewelry store and what questions to ask. This is a good book for young women who are just starting to buy jewelry. It will educate them so they don't buy inferior quality stones at a high price.

Written by Antoinette Maitland the book is a great summary of everything gemological. The author gives a lot of information about the field in a very approachable way. It makes a great buying guide as well as a good field guide for those interested in gemstones, jewelry, and their value modifiers.

I like it . I am interested in buying real and natural jewelry for myself . It is good to know how to buy real gems and stones to avoid being tricked by some sellers .

Great book to help you pick the right stone. 1/3 of the book is dedicated to diamonds, though. The book is a tiny bit wordy, but I would still recommend.

Great info! I know nothing about stones this book helps a lot for a beginner.

This is a good book, with interesting info. and good pics.

Comprehensive guide for people who love jewellery and want to increase their knowledge. Easy to read and understand.