The structure and development of crystals -- Summary of treatments -- Gem-testing instruments -- Photography -- Diamond -- Ruby and sapphire -- Emerald and the Beryls -- Opal -- Quartz -- The jades -- Topaz -- Turquoise -- Lapis lazuli -- Chrysoberyl -- Amber -- Spinel -- Glass -- Composite stones -- Less common synthetics -- Plastics, resins and metals -- Collectable synthetics.
Summary:
"In Artificial Gemstones, Michael O'Donoghue provides the definitive guide to the various man-made substitutes thus enabling anyone handling gems to identify them accurately. Starting with the theory of synthetic gem manufacture and an explanation of the production methods used for growing and/or improving crystals - with their ornamental application - the book moves on to list and identify the materials themselves. Some of these have natural counterparts; others are new minerals and do not occur in nature. The author lists the identifying internal and external features and tests, and the book contains seventy-five colour illustrations to display the inclusions found in transparent materials. The book is completed by a full bibliography and a useful appendix of trade names." "Artificial Gemstones is an invaluable handbook for the commercial, scientific and amateur sectors of this area of mineralogy. Gemmologists, gem dealers, lapidaries, curators, amateurs and students of gemology and mineralogy will all find this an indispensable addition to their bookshelves." --Book Jacket.
