GEMS &
CRYSTALS FROM THE AMERICAN MUSEUM OF NATURAL HISTORY " AN ILLUSTRATED GUIDE TO THE HISTORY,
LORE AND PROPERTIES OF THE GEMS
AND MINERALS OF ONE OF THE
WORLD'S GREATEST COLLECTIONS " Oversized Hardcover book with Dust Jacket by Anna S. Sofianides and George E. Harlow Copyright © 1990 by American Museum of Natural History Photographs copyright © 1990 by Erica and Harold Van Pelt " Featuring 150 stunning full-color photographs of 400 different gems and crystals from the world-
famous spectacular collection of the American Museum of Natural History, Gems & Crystals
represents a fascinating and comprehensive treatment of more than 140 varieties of gems and
minerals - including the history, lore, properties, and source for each species. " " The Burmese believed that a ruby would bestow invulnerability upon an owner;
but only if it were actually inserted into the owner's flesh.
In his sixteenth century lapidary, Camilus Leonardus reported that ruby would preserve one's health,
remove evil thoughts, control amorous desires, dissipate pestilential vapors and reconcile disputes.
According to legend, by observing the darkening of her ruby, Catherine of Aragon foretold her downfall
as the wife of Henry VIII. Believing that a colorless sapphire was an unripe ruby, the ancient Sinhales, Hindus, and Burmese
thought that burying such a stone would permit it to mature into a beautiful ruby.
In fact, ruby and sapphire are related, being the two gem varieties of the mineral corundum.
One "ripe" corendum that is legendary for its size, color, and fine start is the 100 carat DeLong Star Ruby. " " Gem & Crystals provides a comprehensive examination of gems and gem materials including
discussions of their properties, history, lore and sources - information useful to novice and expert alike.
The reader will discover the relationships among gems, crystals, minerals, rocks and the bewildering variety of gemstones.
The extensively researched text encompasses a panorama of topics from the ancient lapidaries that are filled with
descriptions of gems and their virtues to the most up-to-date scientific data. Gem & Crystals relates both intriguing legends about the gemstones and the general history of their use
and popularity in different cultures. Filled with information on approximately 140 different gemstone varieties, Gem & Crystals points out the factors
important in determining the quality of each gem and spells out the possible confusions in gemstone identification.
After a general introduction to the special optical and crystalline properties that give gems their extra-ordinary appearance, the properties of each gemstone species are chronicled in sixteen informative chapters. " Contents includes: " Introduction Tracing the Story of Gems What Is a Gem ? Diamond Corundum Beryl Chryoberyl & Spinel Topaz Tourmaline Zircon & Peridot Turquoise & Lapis Lazuli Opal Feldspar Jade Quartz Chalcedony & Jasper Garnet Pearls & Other Organic Gems Rare & Unusual Gemstones & Ornamental Material Glossary Reading List Index " This book is in very good condition with minor wear to the book, but the dust jacket has edgewear, several tears and a clipped corner on the inside front flap.
No torn or ripped pages.
There is an incscription from the previous owner on the second page. | 
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