This is the first in a series of books that will explore the history, lore, evaluation, geographic sources, and identifying properties of lesser-known gems. This volume has 288 colour photographs of mounted and loose tanzanite, ammolite, zultanite, rhodochrosite, sunstone, moonstone, labradorite, spectrolite, andesine, amazonite, bytownite, orthoclase and oligoclase. Some of the pictures are close-up shots that show how to make visual judgements about clarity, transparency, colour, cut quality and brilliance. A few pictures show how the gems are cut and many others show creative jewellery designs with these stones. The book also provides tips on caring for the gems, selecting an appraiser and detecting imitations and gem treatments. The healing and metaphysical properties of the gems are also addressed. Written for both consumers and professionals, it''s easy to read, well-organised, and packed with fascinating information and photos. If you are interested in coloured gemstones, you will find this to be a valuable resource that will help you discover and buy unusual gem varieties you may never have seen before.