<p><i>For goldsmiths, collectors, jewelry-makers, investors, retailers and consumers.</i></p><p>The trade of gemstones is a highly specialized and often secretive business. Using <b>The Jeweler's Directory of Gemstones</b>, written by an expert gemstone dealer and designer, will provide any consumer with the insider knowledge needed to make accurate judgments of gemstones, to recognize low- and high-quality stones, and to make a good buy rather than a bad one.</p><p>Each full-color spread is packed with concise text, annotated drawings and beautiful photographs, including a showcase of virtuoso jewelry designs. Great for informed consumers, the book includes:</p><ul><li>Sources and grading</li><li>Traditional and modern settings</li><li>Cutting and faceting</li><li>Designing a special setting</li><li>Gemstone groups</li><li>Appraising, buying and handling gemstones</li><li>Diamond types and pearls</li><li>Spotting synthetics and fakes.</li></ul><p>Here is a sampling of the practical insider information in this book:</p><ul><li>Using a loupe to examine a stone</li><li>Understanding laser cutting and carving</li><li>Identifying synthetic diamonds</li><li>Buying at gem fairs and from dealers</li><li>Cleaning and storing stones.</li></ul><p>No other book has this kind expert advice -- up-to-date, clearly presented and fully illustrated -- on evaluating and using gemstones.</p>