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