Gem Identification Made Easy

This is the first and only book that explains in non-technical terms how to use pocket, portable and laboratory instruments to identify diamonds and coloured gems and to separate them from imitations and ‘look-alikes’. The book’s approach is direct and practical, and its style easy to understand. In fact, with this highly accessible guide, anyone can begin to master gem identification. Using a simple, step-by-step system, the authors explain the proper use of nine essential but uncomplicated instruments that will do the identification tasks, what to look for gemstone by gemstone, and how to set up a basic lab at modest cost. Three of the instruments are inexpensive, portable, pocket instruments which, when used together, can identify almost 85 per cent of all precious and popular stones. The key to avoiding costly mistakes and recognizing profitable opportunities is knowing both what to look for and what to look out for. “Gem Identification Made Easy” will help you: open your eyes to the types of imitations, synthetics, look-alikes and fakes that can be encountered in today’s gem and jewellery world; learn how to tell the difference between them; recognize the limitations of your own skill and when to employ the services of a professional gemmologist or laboratory; and become professional in your business or hobby. Most of all, it will help you become less dependent on what you’re told and more dependent on you own gem knowledge.