In addition to the perennially successful Gemstones of the World , first published in 1976, he has authored Collins Guide to Rocks, Minerals, and Gemstones and Handbook of Rocks, Minerals, and Gemstones , among other authoritative rock and mineral identification guides. And this updated edition contains a new chapter on the treatment of gemstones, expanded information on what's "New on the Market," and 400 additional stones.

Finance is provided by PayPal Credit (a trading name of PayPal UK Ltd, Whittaker House, Whittaker Avenue, Richmond-Upon-Thames, Surrey, United Kingdom, TW9 1EH).Still, it is rather fascinating to view the radioactive gems such as Ekanite, and to read about how Sulfur is so sensitive to heat that it bursts when warmed in one’s hand (how did they facet it for the photo without generating heat? With amazing info from why the name and where they are found naturally to Mohs' scale and cleavages there is something for everyone, from shiny new beginner to seasoned collector. Each entry offers complete information on a stone's formation and structure; physical properties and characteristics; and methods of working, cutting, and polishing.

The comprehensive listing of gem materials that includes many of the most important identifying features makes it useful for identifying both common and unusual gemstones. Starting a gemstone collection couldn’t be any easier with this ‘Gemstones of the World’ display box.

New to this recent edition is a chapter discussing the symbolic and supposed medicinal significance of different gem materials. With many charts and diagrams, Schumann offers full coverage of the optical features of gems - light and color, luminescence, refraction, and inclusions - and about densities and the chemical elements of each stone, with fascinating details on different cuts, polishing, synthetic and imitation gems, hardness, cleavage, classification, trade names, rarity, and much more - all with an easy-to-understand text.