The Encyclopedia of Gemstones and Minerals
Type
Book
Authors
ISBN 10
0816021775
ISBN 13
9780816021772
Category
Dictionaries
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Publication Year
1991
Publisher
Pages
320
Tags
Description
This work offers information on the properties/values of over 200 rocks, stones, jewels and other natural substances. From amber to zinc, and from diamond-edged blades to orthoclase-based porcelains, details about characteristic form, specific gravity, symmetry system, refraction, location, use and commercial value are provided. Among the varied types of information given is a description of the largest diamond ever mined, the fist-sized 3106-carat Culliam diamond which was found in South Africa in 1905 and which now forms part of the British Crown Jewels; an explanation of how the mediaeval alchemists postulated that gold must be divine because it is incorruptible; and an explanation of the low specific gravity of amber and how this can be used as a test for authenticity. - from Amzon
Number of Copies
1
