Sally Spencer's "Jewellers’ Quick Reference Guide to Working with Gemstones" is a must-have book for anyone in the jewellery industry. This comprehensive guide covers everything from the basics of gemstone properties to advanced information on cutting and setting stones when making jewellery.
One of the key strengths of this book is its organisation. The content is divided into four main sections: How to use this book, Gemstones and their information, Reference and Index of Gemstones. Each section is further broken down into chapters that cover specific topics, making it easy for readers to find the information they need.
The book begins with a section titled "How to Use This Book," which is an absolute must-read for anyone interested in gemmology. Sally Spencer has meticulously packed this section with a wealth of invaluable information that lays the foundation for understanding the rest of the book. From explaining the Mohs scale, which measures the hardness of gemstones, to providing guidance on how to effectively use a loupe, Sally leaves no stone unturned. Her dedication to providing comprehensive and practical information sets the tone for the entire book and ensures that readers are well-equipped to delve into the fascinating world of gemstones.
The book continues with gemstones and their information, exploring their historical significance and cultural importance in jewellery. It also provides a brief overview of the scientific aspects of gemstones, including their imitations and which jewellery style they are best suited for.
Gemstone identification is a crucial skill for jewellers, and this book offers a wealth of information on the subject. The book also delves into common gemstone treatments and their impact on identification.
Understanding gemstone properties is essential when working with them, and the book dedicates a section to this topic. It explains the physical and optical properties of gemstones, such as hardness, cleavage, lustre, colour, and transparency. This knowledge is vital for selecting and working with the right gemstones for specific jewellery designs.
One of the things that sets this book apart is its attention to detail. The author, Sally Spencer, is a renowned jewellery designer and gemstone expert with over 25 years of experience in the field. Her expertise shines through in every chapter, and she provides practical tips and advice that can only come from years of hands-on experience.
Another strength of this book is its accessibility. While the content is comprehensive and detailed, it is written in a clear and easy-to-understand style. The book is also beautifully illustrated with colour photographs and diagrams, which help to clarify the text and make the information more accessible.
Overall, Sally Spencer's "Jewellers’ Quick Reference Guide to Working with Gemstones" is an excellent resource for anyone who works with gemstones. Whether you are a novice or an experienced jeweller, this book is sure to provide you with valuable insights and practical advice that will enhance your work with gemstones.
Highly recommended!
Where to purchase?
The best place to purchase this book is via Sally Spencer's own website - £29.99
Publisher : Pardey Publishing (21 April 2021)
Language : English
Hardcover : 184 pages
ISBN-10 : 183842900X
ISBN-13 : 978-1838429003
This book is also available on Amazon - https://amzn.to/3XPo2jI
Disclosure: This is my honest review of this book. I have purchased the book myself and have not been paid in any way to write a positive review. My views are my own