Nature Guide: Gems: The World in Your Hands (DK Nature Guides)

This book has everything needed to launch a study into crystals. It does a wonderful job of educating the reader about how gems are formed and categorized, and their unique aspects. The photos are simply breathtaking. I actually found the book entertaining and even exciting. I had first borrowed it from the library, but after reading it I knew I had to buy one for myself. Like a great mystery, I couldn't put it down, quickly moving through it from cover to cover. My original purpose in borrowing this book was to supplement the information I was receiving from other works that explain the metaphysical meanings of gems and stones. This book is perfect for filling in the gaps where other resources may not be entirely complete or accurate. I'm sure I will be referring to it often as I continue my learning.

Great illustration and explanation of each item. Layout is easy and understandable. Highly recommended.

I think this book may be a bit outdated especially on the pictures. Many of the cuts of gems I hardly can find and the types of gems referenced in the book are rarely found. But this is a good book to look up any type of gemstone. It is more geared towards collectors of fine gems. I used this book as a reference to basic gemstone beads rather then cut and faceted pieces. It will give you information on the type of gemstone, where it is commonly found (I think this part may be outdated), how to look at its clarity, the cuttings, etc.... Colorful pictures and a good read.

Great book. I am a gemologist and this is one of my go to books. It sits near my workbench

Beautiful pictures. Very good details on the gems. I have a 5 year old granddaughter who carried this book around for about two weeks. My 4 year old grandson loved it to but was more I to the rock edition they have.

Getting back into rocks, crystals and gemstones, so I ordered 3 books that looked good online; I like this one best, all were informative. I guess it depends on what you are looking for.

Awsome book for beginners to novices

A lot of beautiful pictures of crystals and other jewelry! And information about their crystalline structure, physical properties, and chemical composition. This book makes an excellent gift for someone who owns jewelry and collects crystals of rocks and minerals (which is why I bought it). It can work the other way too. This book can get a person interested in owning jewelry and/or crystals of rocks and minerals.

Good value

Una muy buena guía rápida sobre las piedras más populares o conocidas. Es como una enciclopedia de piedra.

A quality little book. Great value for the price.

Thete was all about crystals and gems example is emerald is in green in colour. Awesome

Nice But Less Information.