Which gem book ?

[garfield]

I need recommendation,

If I tho choose one Gems book the cover the entire subject - which one would better serve me:

1. Gem Identification Made Easy - new 3rd edition
By Antoinio Bonanno, Antoinette Leonard Matlins

OR

2. Gemstones of the World, Revised Edition
By Walter Schumann

Thanks

 

[Richard Sherwood]

The Schumann book covers most all the gemstones, while the Bonanno-Matlins book covers most all the methods of identifying them.

I would say the Schumann book would probably be the most helpful for you if you're looking to learn about the characteristics of the different gemstones.

 

[garfield]

Thanks richard - your replies are always on time and useful

I guess I will take it on the safe side and order both books

 

[DiamondExpert]

One I like as a reference is - "GEMS, Their Sources, Descriptions and Identification", by R. Webster, 5th ed. (perhaps there is a 6th by now).

It isn't small or cheap or last minute up to date, but an excellent in depth resource.

It also doesn't have a lot of color pics, but has great tables, appendicies and index at the end.