Eyewitness Handbook of Gemstones by Cally Hall.
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DESCRIPTION: Paperback. Publisher: Dorling Kindersley Publishing (1994). Pages: 160. Dimensions: 8¼ x 5¾ inches.
CONDITION: VERY GOOD (PLUS). Lightly read (and lightly "shelfworn") oversized softcover ("flexibind" - stiff but flexible covers) with dustjacket. Dorling Kindersley Publishing (1994) 160 pages. Dustjacket and covers evidence modest edge and corner shelfwear. Book appears at worst to have been read once by someone with a very "light hand", more likely to have only been flipped through a few times. The back half of the book evidences no indications of ever having been read. Otherwise the inside of the book is pristine; the pages clean, crisp, unmarked, unmutilated, tightly bound, and evidencing only very mild reading wear. From the outside the dustjacket evidences mild "crinkling" to the top edges of the dustjacket, as well as modest abrasive rubbing to the dustjacket spine head. Beneath the dustjacket the covers evidence mild edge and corner shelfwear, again, evidenced as mild "crinkling" at the corners and occasionally along the cover edges. The crinkling is very mild, and requires that you hold the book up to the light and scrutinize it very intently. Given the mild shelfwear to the dustjacket and the unmistakable signs of having been read (albeit very lightly), or perhaps only flipped through a few times, the book clearly lacks the "sex appeal" of a "shelf trophy". Nonetheless it is clean and only lightly read. For those not concerned with whether the book will or will not enhance their social status or intellectual reputation, it's a clean, only lightly read copy with "lots of miles left under the hood". Satisfaction unconditionally guaranteed. In stock, ready to ship. No disappointments, no excuses. PROMPT SHIPPING! HEAVILY PADDED, DAMAGE-FREE PACKAGING! Meticulous and accurate descriptions! Selling rare and out-of-print ancient history books on-line since 1997. We accept returns for any reason within 30 days! #7570.2L.
PLEASE SEE DESCRIPTIONS AND IMAGES BELOW FOR DETAILED REVIEWS AND FOR PAGES OF PICTURES FROM INSIDE OF BOOK.
PLEASE SEE PUBLISHER, PROFESSIONAL, AND READER REVIEWS BELOW.
PUBLISHER REVIEWS:
REVIEW: The Dorling Kindersley Handbook of Gemstones is packed with more than 800 vivid full-color photographs of more than 130 varieties of cut and uncut stones, organic gemstones, and precious metals. With authoritative text, clear photography, and a systematic approach, this concise guide to identification enables you to recognize each gemstone instantly.
Photo-Encyclopedic Approach: Each expertly written entry combines a precise description with annotated photographs to highlight the gemstone's chief characteristics and distinguishing features. Additional color illustrations and photographs show uncut stones, color variations, and a wide range of popular cuts. Easy-to-use, color-coded bands provide at-a-glance facts for quick reference. Also included is a concise glossary.
Identification Made Easy: For beginners and established enthusiasts alike, the Dorling Kindersley Handbook of Gemstones explains what a gemstone is, how and where gemstones occur, what natural properties they possess, and how they have been fashioned and imitated through the ages. to help you in the initial stages of identification, a color key illustrates the variety of colors found within natural and synthetic gemstones. A concise glossary explains relevant scientific and technical terms.
REVIEW: Designed for beginners and experienced collectors alike, this field guide makes identification of individual specimens sure, simple and straightforward. Each entry has a full color illustration as well as color-coded bands that provide at-a-glance facts for quick reference. Easy to use and beautiful to look at, this series is an invaluable resource for every collector.
REVIEW: Cally Hall is a fellow of the Gemological Association and Gem Testing Laboratory of Great Britain. She has contributed to several books on gemology, mineralogy, geology, and earth science and is the author of “Identifying Gems & Precious Stones” A member of the curatorial team at London’s Natural History Museum, she spends her days identifying minerals and gemstones and lecturing. She specializes in the study of colored gemstones.
PROFESSIONAL REVIEWS:
REVIEW: Packed with detailed information on gemstone properties, varieties, and more, DK’s “Smithsonian Handbook of Gemstones” is the clearest identification guide to natural and synthetic gemstones for beginners and established enthusiasts alike.
READER REVIEWS:
REVIEW: I fear that I am a bit of a magpie. I like shiny sparkly things, and the usual response is Ooooh! Shiny! And as a young one, when taken on various trips, I started to take an interest in rockhounding and geology. It was finding gemstones that were the real fun, seeing these little bits of glittery rock that turned out to be sapphires or amethysts or garnets. Life would take me in different directions, but the interest in pretty, glittery rocks has remained.
Smithsonian Handbooks: Gemstones is one of those lovely little books that is crammed full of information and pictures, along some folklore and bits of trivia that add to the mystique of gemstones. Compiled by Cally Hall, it's a very readable book, filled with more than 800 photographs, with a text that while it is slanted towards scientific terms, is very readable and accessible.
The first section of the book is an extended introduction to what makes a gemstone different than say, a mineral, although they might be composed of the same chemicals. A brief history of how gemstones and precious metals (silver, gold and platinum) have been shaped, worn and coveted. One section that I found very interesting was the explanation of the Mohs scale used to determined hardness -- it ranges from 1 to 10, with talc at the bottom, and diamond at the top, and how a stone is determined to fit in along the scale. Another fascinating section is how light and crystallization help to determine gemstones, and what part they play in how a stone is shaped and graded.
There is also a section on synthetic gemstones and how they have been created over the centuries, and how the color of stones can be changed by irradiation, heating and staining the stones. Finally, the section closes with a color key, ranging various stones by their hues, with plenty of vivid pictures and the name of each stone underneath along with the page that goes into more detail about it.
The next section deals with the gemstones and precious metals in particular. Each item is classified into Precious Metals, Cut Stones, and Organics -- and each item is given a page or two that goes into further detail. Stones are given their chemical composition, rating on the Mohs scale, crystal structure, some folklore and history, what sort of cuts that the stones are usually shaped into, and lots of photographs.
It here in the photographs that the book sells itself. They are unusually clear, and crisply printed, with each gemstone being shown in a variety of ways. There is jewelry, different colors that the stone can occur in, and a few shown in their 'matrix' or the surrounding stone and minerals that the gemstones are usually found in their natural state. One of the more intriguing sections is on what are known as Organic Gemstones -- stones that are created by natural, not chemical, occurrences, such as pearls, jet, coral, ivory, shell and amber.
The final sections include a table of properties, glossary, index, and some useful addresses to contact if you find that you want to find out more. The binding is very sturdy, the printing very clean and crisp with the design well-thought out that flows easily from page to page. It is designed to stand up to quite a bit of use, with a spine that will not crack, and heavier than usual paper stock, and the quality is top notch.
Packed into less than a 160 pages, this is a wonderfully priced little book that gives a quick, informative and lively look at gemstones. While it's certainly not a perfect book, and is mostly designed to help the reader figure out what a stone may or may not be -- only a trained gemologist can tell you what it really is -- it's a fun way to start learning. The price was extremely reasonable, less than 10$US, although the cover price is listed as 20$US. It would make a perfect book for adding to a home library, or as a gift to the budding
REVIEW: The Smithsonian Handbook on Gemstones is a great little reference book. It is in depth but also a compact sturdy semi-hardback that is easy to take anywhere. I like the fact that I can easily refer to it when my customers ask me questions about the jewelry I sell. Now I can find the answers to almost any question regarding gemstones. The many colorful pictures are beautiful and the interesting descriptions are easy to read and understand. I would recommend this handbook to anyone wanting to broaden their knowledge of gemstones as I am.
I am buying a lot of gemstone jewelry on eBay and this book really helps me to identify and know the value of a lot of gemstones I previously did not know about. It is really helping to simplify and make the most of my eBay bids. I can now make more educated decisions and have more insight into the information jewelers and gemologists know. I know I will be using this book a lot so it was a great purchase. I highly recommend this book, because it is what you would expect from the Smithsonian; like an enjoyable walk through the museum.
As a matter of fact, when I recently visited the Museum of Natural Science in Houston and the natural gemstones exhibit (which in the past I might not have had much interest in) I was very pleased at my ability to recognize, know something about, and appreciate the vast array of incredible gemstones, because of how it raised my interest in the subject to a new level, with the information and knowledge I gained from reading the Smithsonian Gemstone Handbook.
REVIEW: While written with a simplicity suitable for a novice gem-lover or enthusiastic youngster, the information assembled in this unassuming little paperback is incredibly detailed, cross-referenced and beautifully organized enough to please a seasoned professional. The photographs of materials described are excellent. I bought this book as it was recommended as a text for a gemology course, and am now motivated to give close scrutiny to anything published by Dorling Kindersley. Thanks for the opportunity to say something nice about this wonderful book.........and although you didn't ask, the book which was described as "used" arrived in almost 'new' condition....and at a price well appreciated!
REVIEW: This is basically the best gem handbook that I've found for anyone who doesn't have a professional certification. It gives all of the necessary information on a variety of stones, and some very interesting and useful history and information about other aspects of gemology.
REVIEW: I bought this book to learn more about all the different gems. I am just starting to make jewelry and thought this would be good for me. This book is an excellent book. It shows all the gems and tells the hardness of them. I found some gems that I never heard of in this book. It showed very good pictures of them so I was able to look them up on E-Bay and get them. I would advise anyone wanting to learn about gems for any reason to get this book.
REVIEW: I bought this book for my 2nd grader who loves rock collecting. The pictures are brightly colored and the book contains a lot of information. He can not read the book on his own yet, but he spends hours paging through the book looking at pictures and descriptions of rocks. This book has so much information on gemstones that I have been able to answer all of his questions.
REVIEW: Guess I'm part Crow; shiny, sparkle things definitely attract my attention, while the human side of me wants to know what they are, where they come from, and how they are formed. This book actually appeals to both sides. The color plates are very eye appealing, so my crow self is happy and my human self has plenty of tables, charts, and descriptions to satisfy it's inquisitive nature. While this will not be the only Gem Reference book in my library, it is very much worth reading over and over again. Highly Recommend
REVIEW: This is an exceptional, concise and thorough handbook. It is informative as to the classification according to structures, methods of mining, identification of stones and minerals and uses. The illustrations are excellent, the index and table of contents are easily accessible, and even have photos, also.. There are stones in their natural, unfinished state, polished and faceted, and lush examples of jewelry made using gems. It is one of my favorite books on gemstones
REVIEW: For a general-interest guide to gemstones, this spectacular little book is remarkably thorough, authoritative, and comprehensive. Minerals are classified by color, crystal structure, composition, and hardness. History and geology are prominent subjects as well. The information throughout is well-organized, clearly-presented, and easy to reference. Best of all, the full-color visuals are absolutely stunning. The book--like its subject matter--is a spectacular marriage of science & art. A big thumbs-up!
REVIEW: A great book for beginners and experienced gemstone enthusiasts alike. Information ranges from simple descriptions for identification purposes (especially inclusions), to detailed terminology for the experienced rock hound. I have purchased so called beginners books in the past (for identification purposes) and they require expert gemologists to understand.
REVIEW: Never thought there were so many crystals that can be cut into gemstones. Never saw so many beautiful pictures of cut loose gemstones in one place. Well explained, from formation, physical and optical properties, imitation and enhancement. Especially appreciate the color key section, with gemstones grouped according to color in which it is always, usually and sometimes available. Probably the best books on properties and identification of gemstones. I am positively THRILLED to own it, and I am only a gemstone lover and admirer.
REVIEW: This is a clear, concise, easy to read guide to gems. Well photographed. A great primer for those unfamiliar with all the different types of stones, and a good reference for those who are more knowledgeable. Excellent for jewelers and designers to use with customers. Highly recommended.
REVIEW: Very happy with this book. Offers full color pictures, RI's, and such for stone identification and/or verification. Interesting and essential for anyone in Lapidary jewelry making work. Well organized and easy to use for reference and finding what you need to find. Definitely a bench handbook for stone identification, Well worth the money.
REVIEW: If you really want to know about gems... buy this book! The information and the Illustrations it contains is remarkable. Absolutely Recommend this to anyone interested in gemstones.
REVIEW: This books is so complete. The introduction takes you through what makes a gem, what gives it value, and then the whole rest of the books is about each gemstone and it's hardness, typical cuts, colors, where found, what to look for. This book is a MUST!!!!!
REVIEW: I ordered this book as a gift for my grandmother. She recently went to New Mexico and fell in love with all the shiny rocks and gemstones she found there. So I came home, I did my research, and searched for an inexpensive gemstone book with excellent reviews. This book seemed highly recommended from fellow lovers of shiny things, and I am really glad I went with it. It is filled with tons of pictures, and the text, while very informative, is simple enough for anyone to understand.
REVIEW: This is a great little book. I bought a copy for my rock and gem club's library, and we liked it so well that we bought another copy and donated it to our local public library. I especially like the way it shows the gems and minerals in their natural state, then cut cabochon, cut and faceted also.
REVIEW: I bought this for my 7-yr. old daughter - budding rock hound and naturalist! Like other DK books, the photography is luscious and the layout is casual and very inviting - full of beautiful images. It provides a great overview and history of gemstones and their appeal, where specific stones can be found and appealing photographs of the different cuts of stones. It also provides detailed "specifics" such as structure, composition and hardness. This is a thoroughly engaging book for all ages and it is highly recommended.
ADDITIONAL BACKGROUND:
GEMSTONES IN ANCIENT HISTORY: Throughout history, gemstones were believed capable of curing illness to providing protection. Found in Egypt dated 1500 B. C., the "Papyrus Ebers" offered one of most complete therapeutic manuscripts containing prescriptions using gemstones and minerals. In the eastern civilizations of China, India, and Tibet, gemstones were not only valued for their medicinal and protective properties, but also for educational and spiritual enhancement. Hereinbelow are a few examples of the uses for and beliefs concerning specific gemstone varieties in the ancient world.
Danburite: Danburite is a fairly uncommon and rare gemstone. Though danburite itself is a common mineral, transparent gemstone quality specimens are rare. It’s likely that it was known in antiquity, but probably confused with another gemstone such as white topaz, quartz crystal, or even white beryl (“goshenite”) or in the case of pastel yellow danburite, quite possibly confused with citrine. Danburite is usually colorless, like quartz crystal or white topaz, but some deposits have produced specimens in shades of pink, yellow, orange, and brown. Danburite is well known in the jewelry trade known for its excellent transparency and clarity. Since it has a reasonably high refractive index (6.30 to 6.36), in the same range as topaz or tourmaline, the material produces facetable gemstones of excellent quality and sparkle. Danburite generally phosphoresces, showing a light blue to blue-green color under ultraviolet light. However since danburite is fairly rare and availability limited and sourcing difficult, it has never become a mainstream gemstone such as topaz, amethyst, emerald, sapphire, ruby, etc. Though it is well known to most jewelers, few stock it as it is quite difficult to source.
When you consider the number of countries which were part of the Classical Mediterranean, in which danburite has been discovered, it seems inevitable that it was used at some point in antiquity. Deposits of danburite (albeit many of them small) have been discovered in England, Austria, Switzerland, Norway, France, Germany, Czechoslovakia, Italy, Romania, Russia, Afghanistan, Iran, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan, Burma, Ceylon, China, Nepal, and Vietnam. Outside of those regions within the classical world (Europe, the Near and Far East), danburite has also been discovered in Mexico, Madagascar, Namibia, Tanzania, Japan, Australia, Bolivia,Canada, and the USA. In fact danburite is named for Danbury, Connecticut (in the United States) where it was first “discovered” in 1839 by Charles Shephard. The Danbury Museum & Historical Society explains that danburite was, “common all over the world, but it hadn't been classified or named until Charles Shepard found it”. Shepard was an eminent American mineralogist who was for many years professor of natural history at Amherst College.
Under what name danburite crystals may have been known in the ancient world is indeterminable. Danburite was likely misidentified as quartz crystal, or colorless topaz or beryl, so history is silent as to the uses of danburite crystals. However it is possible that the beliefs which modern practitioners hold pertaining to danburite crystals may reflect ancient beliefs. It is common for such beliefs to be carried forward in folklore. In Western Europe and America present-day healers use danburite to treat diseases of certain organs like the liver and gall bladder. It is also believed to be useful in treating allergies, infertility, muscular and skeletal disorders, and tumors; to aid in tissue regeneration and ease pregnancies; and lastly to detoxify the body.
On the metaphysical plane, wearing danburite is said to strengthen the wearer’s “life force”, filling the wearer’s body, mind, and spirit (and relationships) with “white light”, cleansing and purifying the wearer, bringing about truth, honesty, happiness, and open receptivity to mind and spirit. It is believed to quicken the intellect, strengthen the nervous system, and enhance awareness, allowing thoughts and energy to flow more freely. Danburite is also believed to encourage a friendly social atmosphere, to ease the difficulties of times of extreme personal changes and/or stress. It is also believed to heal old emotional wounds, clear past karma, and for the terminally ill, to “ease the transition of leaving the physical human form”. Used in meditation and trances, danburite is believed to channel information from spiritual worlds during meditation, increase the wearer’s psychic abilities, and to bring visitations by “angels and other-worldly beings”, especially during dreams [AncientGifts].
Kunzite: Kunzite is an unusual and rare gemstone. It is the pink or violet-colored variety of the spodumene family, cousin to hiddenite (green spodumene) and triphane (yellow or colorless spodumene). It was known in Central Asia and in Eastern Europe as early as the sixteenth century from sources in Afghanistan and Russia. It was believed by Russian jewelers to be a variety of pink amethyst. There are also references to it in ancient Hindu texts, where it was referenced as having been produced in what is present-day Pakistan. Kunzite was first “discovered” (officially at least, as reported in Western sources) in America at the Pala Chief Mine near San Diego, California.
The “newly discovered” gemstone was named after Tiffany’s chief gemologist George Frederick Kunz, who was the first to give a comprehensive (and published) description of the gemstone shortly after the turn of the twentieth century. Another spodumene variety “discovered” in America few decades prior to kunzite was named “hiddenite”, after A. E. Hidden, who was one of the original mine owners wherein this spodumene variety was found (in North Carolina). By whatever name, kunzite, hiddenite, and triphane are all still best known to geologists as “spodumene” (first described in literature in 1800 A.D.). The name spodumene is derived from the Greek spodumenos, which meant “burnt to ashes”, in reference to spodumene's commonly occurring light gray color.
Spodumene is a major source of lithium, trace amounts of which is what gives it its pink color; violet undertones are created by traces of manganese. Lithium has a great variety of uses including in the manufacture of lubricants, ceramics, batteries, welding supplies, experimental fuels and in anti-depressant drugs. Kunzite displays two unusual characteristics; “phosphorescence” whereby kunzite, in this respect similar to diamond, is observed to glow in a darkened room after it has been exposed to the sun’s ultra-violet rays; and “pleochroism”, showing two different colors when viewed from different directions. Kunzite is actually trichroic, meaning it can appear up to three different colors, depending on the angle from which it is viewed. It can appear very strongly violet from one angle, light purple/violet/pink from another, and pale green or colorless from a third angle of view.
Kunzite commonly shows violet, pink, yellow or green hues depending upon the orientation of the cut gemstone. Transparent spodumenes of pink to violet color (kunzite) and yellowish-green to medium deep green (hiddenite) are used as gemstones. Kunzite is particularly noteworthy for its feminine and alluring hues which range between pastel pinks and violets to intense, almost “neon” hues. Depending on the cut, it can also possess incredible sparkle and brilliance. Kunzite is presently mined in the United States, Canada, Mexico, Brazil, Afghanistan, Pakistan, Burma, Ceylon, Finland, Sweden, Russia, Australia, Mozambique, Nigeria and Madagascar. It is often found in association with other two semi-precious pink gemstones; morganite and pink tourmaline.
The largest known faceted kunzite gemstones include a 614 carat pear at the University of Delaware's mineral museum, and an 880 carat gemstone on display in the Smithsonian Institution's collection in Washington D.C. Kunzite was virtually unknown to the American public until the Sotheby's auction of a very special kunzite ring in 1996. Among the jewelry from the Estate of Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis was a ring with a 47 carat cushion cut kunzite stone surrounded by 20 round diamonds set in 18k gold. The ring was originally purchased by President John F. Kennedy as a Christmas gift for his wife in 1963. The ring was never “presented” by the President to his wife, as he was assassinated the month prior to Christmas (in November 1963).
In the ancient world kunzite was traditionally worn as a talisman which was believed to bring good luck to the wearer. Its soft pastel colors also came to symbolize purity. New age shamans and metaphysical practitioners regard it as a symbol of new life, specifically pregnancy, and believe that it also opens the path to spirituality for new wearers, revealing the inner soul and the “purpose” of their incarnation. It is also believed to help the wearer understand and interact better with others, to help heal "broken hearts" (and is considered especially beneficial for those who have experienced a failed relationship or marriage), to relieve stress and anger, dissolve negativity, and to bring love, peace and harmony.
Kunzite is also said to be useful for increasing the wearer’s inner strength and sense of self worth, for removing emotional blockages originating in past (i.e., childhood) experiences. It is also said to stimulate sensitivity and sensuality. It is sometimes referred to as a “stone of balance”, offering its wearer emotional calmness, security, and maturity. Kunzite is believed to help strengthen the circulatory system, and to be helpful in the treatment of lung disorders, psychiatric disorders, chemical dependencies and addictions, and depression [AncientGifts].
Prehnite: The minerals that form prehnite were deposited in pockets in hydrothermal veins that formed within an enclosing mass of basalt (lava) as it cooled 210+ million years ago. The gemstone was first “discovered” in South Africa by Colonel Hendrik Von Prehn, an early Dutch governor of the Cape of Good Hope colony. Prehnite was the first mineral to be named after a person. However prehnite originating in the Murmansk Region of Russia (near Finland and Sweden) was cut into gemstones in Russia as early as the 16th century. Prehnite imported from Renfrewshire and Dumbartonshire, Scotland was very popular in 18th and 19th century Victorian Russia. There was also a major source in Bohemia (Germany). Prehnite occurs in various shades of yellow, gray, blue, and pink, and is commonly white.
However Prehnite is best known in shades of green that vary from pale to very dark. However, With its bright, almost luminescent green coloring prehnite is an attractive mineral that can have a very good luster. Early traders nicknamed the gemstone Cape Emerald in hopes of exploiting its green color. In Victorian Europe Russia it was believed that prehnite could enhance one's protective field, dreaming and remembrance; bring peace and calm; and help build the immune system. It was used for treating anemia, blood disorders, and hypertension. Its color and unusual touch was believed to generate serenity and tranquility, ideal for stress release. Prehnite was much in demand amongst shamans and Bohemian Gypsies who knew it as the Prediction Stone [AncientGifts].
Feldspar: From the perspective of the gemstone world, it would seem like quartz (amethyst, citrine, quartz crystal, aventurine, etc.) is the most abundant mineral in the world. But from the point of view of mineralogy, it is feldspar that is the most common mineral. In fact feldspar makes up nearly 60% of the earth's crust. Despite being so common it is rare for feldspars to occur as gemstone. The most common use of feldspar however is not for gemstones. Feldspar is most commonly used in glassmaking and ceramics. In glassmaking, alumina from feldspar improves product hardness, durability, and resistance to chemical corrosion. The alkali content in feldspar acts as a flux lowering the glass batch melting temperature and reducing production costs. In ceramics, the alkali in feldspar also acts as a flux, lowering the melting temperature of a mixture. Fluxes melt at an early stage in the firing process, forming a glassy matrix that bonds the other components of the system together. Feldspar is often used as an anti-caking agent in powdered forms of non-dairy creamer. Granite, an important building material, contains up to 50% to 70% of alkaline feldspar (giving granite its characteristic pink undertones). In earth sciences and archaeology, feldspars are used for argon, optical, and thermoluminescence dating.
The name “feldspar” is derived from the German terms “feld” (field), referring to the mineral's abundance and the fact that as it breaks up it becomes a major component of soil, and “'spar” (a term for a rock that splits easily). Gemstones of the feldspar family include include orthoclase feldspar, amazonite, moonstone, labradorite, sunstone and andesine. Feldspars which are crystalline in form and transparent are generally orthoclase feldspar or andesine (a type of labradorite). Feldspar is also one of the minerals found in unakite. The most common transparent feldspar gemstone is orthoclase, and though most often occurs in yellow or pink, is also found colorless, as well as light green, greenish blue, green, white, black, and brown. Orthoclase as a mineral is a very common feldspar, but when described as a gemstone it usually refers to a rare transparent yellow or pink form of the mineral orthoclase. Orthoclase feldspar gemstones were certainly used in the ancient world (such as in the mask of Tutankhamun), however few records exist as feldspar was not identified as such, and was likely confused with other gemstones such as citrine.
Under what name orthoclase feldspar was known in the ancient world is indeterminable. Orthoclase feldspar was likely misidentified as citrine, pink tourmaline, etc. Though some types of feldspar were well known in the ancient world, such as moonstone, sunstone, labradorite, etc., transparent feldspar was not identified in ancient literature as feldspar. It was used in the ancient world. Many examples of feldspar have been found in archaeological remains, the most prominent example of which is Tutankhamun’s mask. However outside of other feldspar varieties such as moonstone, history is silent as to how transparent orthoclase feldspar crystals may have been used for healing or for mystic or shamanic purposes.
However it is possible that the beliefs which modern practitioners hold pertaining to orthoclase feldspar crystals may reflect ancient beliefs. It is common for such beliefs to be carried forward in folklore. Orthoclase is used for crystal healing purposes. Orthoclase is said to be of help at heart ailments, to strengthen bones, improving the wearer’s concentration, lowering blood pressure and strengthening the body's natural defenses against stress. On the metaphysical plane, orthoclase feldspar is considered by most to be a “lunar stone” that encourages the development of clairvoyance and clairaudience (the ability to see and hear spirits).
It is believed that wearing an orthoclase feldspar helps to boost the wearer’s energy levels, and to enhance adaptability and the ability to cope with change. It is considered helpful to hose feeling stressed by the pace of life, dealing with loss, grief or changes that are disrupting emotionally or causing one to feel that their foundations are no longer stable. Feldspar is believed to help the wearer cope with the minor, everyday pressures of life as well as the major traumas. Another of orthoclase use is to use it during meditation due to its calming and soothing properties [AncientGifts].
Labradorite: Labradorite is a variety of feldspar closely related to “moonstone”, typically found in colors of gray, brown, green, blue, yellow, or colorless. The most common variety of labradorite is best known for its play of colors called labradorescence. The labradorescence, or “schiller” effect (similar to the iridescence of pearl or opal), is most commonly blue in tone, however sometimes green, purple, gold and yellow, red, or bronze-toned flashes can be seen. The bright metallic looking colors created on the surface of the labradorite are seen as the stone is moved at different angles to a light source. The iridescent shimmer of color has been compared with the wings of tropical butterflies, peacock feathers, black opal, black abalone mother-of-pearl, and the sheen of gasoline floating atop a puddle of water.
Labradorite is also known as "black rainbow" in India for its astonishing rainbow colored reflection. The variety of labradorite exhibiting the highest degree of labradorescence (typically in a black body) is called “spectrolite”, and is found only in (and is the national gemstone of) Finland. Labradorite is also sometimes found as large transparent red, yellow, champagne, or colorless crystals which may be cut into faceted gemstones. Labradorite was “officially discovered” on St. Paul Island in Labrador, Canada, in 1770. However, pieces of the gemstone also have been found among artifacts of the Native Americans in Maine. Archaeologists have also found reference to it by the ancient Indian tribes of Canada.
Calling it “firestone” because of its captivating play of color, the Native Indians of Labrador attributed mystical qualities to labradorite, using the powdered gem as a magical potion to cure their ailments. According to an Eskimo legend, the Northern Lights were once imprisoned in the rocks along the coast of Labrador, and then a wandering Eskimo warrior found them and freed most of the lights with a mighty blow of his spear. Some of the lights were still trapped within the stone however, and thus the shimmer of color which may be found within labradorite.
It turns out that despite the fact that the official “discovery” of labradorite is attributed to 1770, labradorite has actually been found in a number of countries, most European, many of which have produced the gemstone for centuries, if not millennia, including Russia, Finland, Norway, England, Scotland, Bavaria, Austria, and India (it is also been discovered in Australia and Madagascar in the past few centuries). In fact, labradorite was accurately described by the first century Roman naturalist and historian “Pliny the Edler”. There’s archaeological evidence that labradorite was used in Roman jewelry produced in England, and that it was also used by the “barbarian” Germanic tribes during the Roman era.
Labradorite has been used in Russian jewelry since the Medieval era. Labradorite was immensely popular in eighteenth century France and England set into pins, bracelets, and brooches. In ancient mythology, the radiance of labradorite was considered to have originated from the time when the earth was united with the sun. According to legends attributed to Atlantis, it was believed to awaken the sleeping powers of insight, clairvoyance, creativity and knowledge. Mystics and shamans valued labradorite very highly, employing it in magic, ritual and ceremonies. Labradorite was also frequently associated in the ancient world with myths and deities that pertain to rainbows.
For example it was associated with Iris, the ancient Greek Goddess of rainbows; and in Norse Mythology with the “Bifrost Bridge”, a burning rainbow bridge which reached between “Midgard” (the profane world) and “Asgard” (the realm of the gods). There are also references to labradorite being used in the Middle Ages to treat eye and brain disorders, and to help regulate metabolic and digestive processes. An amulet of labradorite was also believed to protect the home from intruders. In the ancient world it was believed that labradorite brought good luck, and provided relief from anxiety, hopelessness and depression; replacing them with enthusiasm, self-confidence and inspiration. Modern practitioners believed that labradorite enhances inner knowledge of “the mysteries”, intuition, psychic perception; elevating consciousness and amplifying psychic abilities such as psycho-navigation, shape shifting and in communication with spirits.
Labradorite is also said to energize the body and enhance productivity, aiding one to work productively for long periods without tiring, stimulating exercise, and to re-energize those who have been overworking. It is also believed to be a powerful sleep aid, to enhance the ability of the wearer’s ability to relate to others, and positively reinforce the wearer’s originality, creativity, and confidence. It is also believed to be useful in combating jealousy, and allegedly will cause negativity to “bounce off” the wearer. Medicinally labradorite is contemporaneously used by healers to help relieve the effects of stress and tension, especially after long and arduous troubles. It is also believed to be an effective aid in losing weight since the gemstone is thought to help balance the metabolism, and is also believed to be useful for the treatment of infertility, disgestive disorders, eye and brain disorders, diseases of the joints and prostate gland.
Psychics and spiritualists claims that labradorite can be used to open channels of communication with spiritual beings, especially animal spirits, making the stone useful for anyone seeking a spiritual ally, totem or familiar. They claim it encourages self reliance, independence and magical revelations, and can reveal the wearer’s spiritual destiny. It is believed to strength the wearer’s abilities in astral projection, dream recall, and to form a bridge between the conscious and unconscious mind. The yellow form of labradorite is believed to alleviate oppression and protect spiritual seekers who face discrimination or abuse because of their belief in “crystal power” [AncientGifts].
Sunstone: Sunstone was known in the ancient world as is also known as “heliolite”, “Helio” of course Greek for “Sun”. Ancient Greeks used it in goblets to prevent poisoning. Sunstone is a member of the feldspar group of minerals and is closely related to moonstone. It is formed and crystalized in a lava flow. The color is caused by tiny crystals of copper within the stones which often results in "schiller" or shimmer that is usually a peach color. Sunstone was well known in the ancient world, and have been discovered in Viking burial mounds. Among the Vikings it was thought to be an aid to navigation. The original source of the stone for the Vikings was probably a deposit in Norway at Tvedestrand, rediscovered in the 1950’s.
Ancient American sources of sunstone were also eventually rediscovered in Oregon and Canada, where the discovery was made that sunstone was used by ancient North American natives for barter. Sunstone has also been well known in Russia for many centuries. Russian sunstone varies from golden to orange to red-brown, and can be transparent or translucent. Sunstone has a distinctly metallic look, due to sparkling mineral inclusions (usually hematite or goethite crystals) of red, orange or green. Many sunstones also contain copper or pyrite inclusions, giving an extra flash of light. Until the early 1800’s, sunstone was very rare and quite expensive. Then in 1831 a massive deposit was discovered along the Selenga River in Siberia, near Lake Baikal, Russia.
Before the Russian discovery near Lake Baikal, sunstone was found in only one location, on Sattel Island in Russia’s White Sea. Since sunstone had been so rare in the ancient world, its use as a jewelry stone in our ancient past was limited. However, sunstone has a long history of association with the sun’s powers. Magicians would set the stone in gold to attract the sun’s influence. An ancient healing tradition used a circle of sunstones set out under the sun. Individuals with rheumatism could then sit in the middle of the circle and be relieved of their symptoms. Native American tribes from Canada often used sunstone in Medicine Wheel ceremonies to help establish a connection with the healing light of the sun. In the ancient past sunstone, in addition to it’s connection with the power of the sun, was also believed to strengthen the life force, bring luck, instill optimism and increase strength and vitality, assist in contemplative processes, and bolster the energy level. It was also believed to bring luck and romance to the wearer [AncientGifts].
Moonstone: Moonstone is a form of feldspar. Moonstone is a fairly rare (though not expensive) gemstone. The most significant deposits of the gemstone are found in Brazil, Mexico, Canada, the United States, Norway, Poland, Austria, Switzerland, Russia, Kyrgyzstan, Germany, India, Myanmar, Sri Lanka, Tanzania, Kenya, Madagascar, Australia, and China. Moonstone is usually colorless but also is found with a silvery or blue sheen, and also in background colors ranging from white or gray, to sky blue, green, peach, yellow, pink and orange. Generally moonstones are transparent, but sometimes the milk-white variety comes with blue or white schiller (luminescence) which give the stone an effect similar to moonshine. Rainbow moonstone is milky white with a rainbow colored sheen.
The gemstone was named “moonstone” because to ancient populations, its blue-white sheen resembles that of the moon, and the translucency which so much resembles the beautiful quality of light from a full moon. Moonstone from Ceylon (present-day Sri Lanka), the classical world’s source of moonstone, shimmers pale blue on an almost transparent background. Specimens from India show cloudlike plays of light and shades of beige, brown, green, or orange; or as well in blue and peach, smoke and champagne, or in black and reddish. Ceylon is especially famous for its "blue flash" moonstone, translucent white with brilliant flashes of a metallic shimmering bright blue, and for its cat’s-eye and “star” moonstone.
Moonstone was also once known as "adularia," a name taken from the town of Mt. Adularia, in the Adula Mountains of Switzerland, one of the ancient world’s first moonstone sources. This is also the origin of the word "adularescence," which describes the shimmering play of light that moves across the surface of a moonstone when it is turned. Another name used in the ancient past for moonstone was “selenite”, derived from the Greek name for the moon, “selene”. In fact, in ancient Greece moonstone was called “aphroselene”, in honor of Aphrodite, Goddess of Love, and Selene, Goddess of the Moon.
Moonstone has been known to man for thousands of years. It was first found and worn as ornamental jewelry in Ceylon and India, and was exported and distributed throughout the ancient Mediterranean world. Since the most ancient of times, moonstone has been associated with the moon goddesses of various ancient cultures, including the goddesses Isis (Egyptian), Diana (Roman) and Aphrodite and Selene (Greek). The ancient Greeks and Romans believed that moonstones were actually formed out of moonlight. Amulets of moonstone were frequently hung in fruit trees to ensure fruitful and abundant crops.
Moonstone was also used in ancient times to cure insomnia; and due to its association with water, moonstone was worn as a protective amulet by mariners, fishermen, and naval personnel at sea. Ancient populations also thought moonstone provided protection against wandering of the mind, insanity (“lunacy”) and epilepsy; and was attributed with improving physical strength and reconciling lovers. If held in the mouth, a moonstone was even thought to help one make the right decision, and was used by mystics who believed that placing a moonstone in their mouth during a full moon enabled them to foretell the future, and would also reveal hidden or secret enemies.
Because of the symbolic connection of moon's journey through the night’s sky, moonstone was also worn in the ancient world as a protective talisman by those who had to travel at night. Once known as the "traveler's stone," it was used for protection against all the perils of travel, but it was believed particularly effective against the perils that travel at night brought. It was also worn by children to protect them against nightmares, and also worn as a protective talisman by nursing mothers, its protection conferred upon both infant and mother.
Moonstone was also believed in the ancient world to arouse passion and magnetism among lovers and it was a very popular gift between couples. In ancient China moonstone was believed to balance the yin yang, or in contemporary terms, balance the positive and negative energies in a person, leading them toward a more peaceful and fruitful life. In Tibetan traditional medicine, moonstone was used as a cure for epilepsy and mental illness, and in ancient Christianity moonstone was linked to the archangel Gabriel.
According to the Hindu legends of ancient India, moonstone was formed from moonbeams. Moonstone from Ceylon and India found its way to ancient Greece, Rome, and Egypt was used in jewelry by the Romans who believed that the stone was formed from frozen moonlight. Pliny the Elder (23-79 A.D.), Roman historian, naturalist and author of the world's first encyclopedia, referred to stones called astrions; meaning "star-stones" (also called “asteria” or “orastriotes”). He described them as having come from India, "a colorless stone having within it the appearance of a star shining brightly like the full moon."
The bright white spot that appears to move as a moonstone is rotated was believed by the ancients to be a reflection of the moon that waxed and waned in harmony with lunar movement. According to Pliny, when moonstone was held up to the stars, the stones collected and reflected their glitter. Pliny actually chronicled an account of a Sri Lankan embassy bearing moonstones to Rome during the reign of Emperor Claudius Caesar (10 - 54 B.C.).
In Ceylon, where moonstone was (and still is) mined, it was believed that that since moonstones deliver a brightness comparable to moonlight, wearers of the stone would experience a magical brightness in their lives. Moonstones were believed to counteract any evil effects the moon might have had on the wearer’s life. According to Sri Lankan tradition, the Moonstone Temple in Anuradhapura, ancient capital of Sinhalese kings of Ceylon that flourished for 1,300 years; abandoned after the Tamil Chola kings of southern India invaded in 993 A.D., had moonstone steps faced with mosaics of moonstone. The ruins of this temple, built about 100 B.C., can still be seen today; but the moonstones are no longer there, undoubtedly looted in one of the many invasions suffered by Cetlon throughout the centuries.
As in the ancient past, medieval cultures used moonstone during the waxing of the moon for love charms (it was believed that between two lovers, or spouses, love grew as the moon grew), and during the waning of the moon to foretell the future. During the Italian Renaissance a court physician, Camillus Leonardus, author of “Speculum Lapidum” ("Mirror of Stones"), wrote in 1502 A.D. that moonstone enabled a person to foretell future events. George Frederick Kunz, in his famous book “The Curious Lore of Precious Stones” written in 1913, tells the story of a famous moonstone that allegedly displayed a white point that changed shape and size in accordance with the waxing and waning of the moon.
Very popular in the early twentieth century, moonstone was used extensively in Art Nouveau jewelry (1890-1915), and experienced another great wave of popularity in the 1960's. Moonstone was also used to decorate a striking amount of pieces of jewelry created by the famous French master-goldsmith René Lalique and his contemporaries. Today moonstone is still worn for its mystical and magical qualities.
For many East (Asian) Indians moonstone is still regarded as being holy and religious in nature, and is used as a talisman to protect against evil and ill happenings. Indians believe that a spirit resides within moonstone, and brings good fortune to its wearer. Moonstone is displayed only on a yellow cloth, yellow being considered a most holy color. East Indian tradition holds that moonstone is a symbol of the Third Eye and clarifies spiritual understanding. It is believed to bring wonderful dreams to the one that possesses it.
In fact beyond India, throughout all of Asia, moonstone is considered to be a very lucky stone, of immense value when gambling. It is widely believed in Asia that the best, bluish toned moonstone is washed ashore by tidal waters only once in every twenty-one years, during a special convergence of the moon and sun. Moonstone’s magic is regarded as particularly potent in connection with fertility and femininity. In India, women wear moonstone amulets to enhance fertility and to provide protection during pregnancy. In Arab countries women often sew moonstone into their garments (where it is unseen), because it's considered a potent aid to fertility.
Contemporary practitioners of alternative medicine believe moonstone to be an effective remedy for many gynecological complications relating to obesity, pituitary gland, hormonal misbalance or menstrual problems, and employ it to relieve the discomfort of cramps, PMS and the birthing process. Moonstone's healing properties are also said to promote digestion, to protect against epilepsy, to calm emotions, cure headaches and nose bleeds, and protect against sun stroke. A moonstone is also believed to assist in regenerating the tissues and organs of the reproductive system, and to increase the wearer’s tolerance level and help to absorb pain and illness.
Moonstone is also believed to help “unblock” the lymphatic system, helping to head and balance the stomach, pancreas, and pituitary gland. It is also believed to help reduce swelling and excess body fluid. It is also regarded as beneficial in alleviating many degenerative conditions with respect to the skin, hair, eyes and fleshy organs of the body such as the liver and pancreas. It is also believed to enhance the assimilation of nutrients to assist in the elimination of toxins and to treat disorders of the digestive and elimination systems.
Metaphysically, according to Ayurvedic medicine, moonstone calms fear and anxiety, and changes these emotions into peaceful understanding and self-confidence enabling the wearer to face situations without becoming emotionally overwrought. It is also believed to cleanse the wearer’s soul, flooding the wearer with positive energy. Like the rainbow it is believed to harmonize such human qualities as endurance and compassion to make the character emotionally balanced, enhancing the wearer’s self-confidence and creativity.
One of the most acknowledged fertility crystals, moonstones are believed to play a special role in the lives of the women. A traditional symbol of the moon goddess, it imbibes all the gentle attributes of a caring and sharing mother and it is believed that wearing moonstone helps to enhance these feminine qualities. Moonstone is associated with women's monthly cycles and is believed to be particularly beneficial for post-menopause women. As in the ancient past, moonstone is still believed to protect the women during pregnancy and child birth, and I also regarded as helpful in the process of spiritual rebirth. Moonstone is also regarded as helpful in enhancing feminine energy and intuitive abilities.
Moonstone is also associated with the strengthening of mental faculties and maintaining emotional balance. It is believed to maintain the tranquility of the wearer’s inner self and to enhance self control. For the calculative men of the world, moonstones can help the wearer strike a balance between their heart and the brain, aiding emotional expressions and enhancing creativity. Wearing a moonstone is also believed to enable men to develop intuitive visions.
Moonstone has always been revered as a stone for rendering clairvoyance and it has also been regarded as a great love booster. Lovers who possess a moonstone are said to be able to foretell their future life together. One legend is that two people wearing moonstone will fall passionately in love when the moon is high. A symbol of fertility, moonstone has been recommended (as it was in the ancient past) for those associated with the planting and cultivation of food crops. Moonstone is also believed to aid the wearer in recalling past life spiritual experiences. A moonstone under the pillow while sleeping is believed to put one in touch with one’s spiritual teachers, sometimes resulting in one’s awakening tired, as the night was spent “learning”.
Many mystics and magic practitioners believe that the power of moonstone changes with the moon's phases and that broadly speaking, it should be used for physical matters during a waxing moon and psychic matters under a waning moon. They believe the stone a powerful aid to enhancing the wearer’s intuition, enabling the development of telepathy, clairvoyance, and other psychic skills. It is also believed by many mystics what common white moonstone can cause delusions (“lunacy”), but wearing blue moonstone transforms the delusions into revelations and visions and spiritual insights.
Keeping moonstone under one’s tongue is also said to enable one to keep focused on their goals, clear away confusion and distractions, enable one to find the truth in complicated situations (especially if emotions are running high), and to enable the wearer to discern what is really important and focus energy on those issues. Moonstone is also believed beneficial in dieting, gardening, and meditation. It is also said to promote the wearer’s intuitive and empathic nature, and to encourage lucid dreaming, especially at the time of the full moon [AncientGifts].
SHIPPING & RETURNS/REFUNDS: We always ship books domestically (within the USA) via USPS INSURED media mail (“book rate”). Most international orders cost an additional $17.99 to $48.99 for an insured shipment in a heavily padded mailer. There is also a discount program which can cut postage costs by 50% to 75% if you’re buying about half-a-dozen books or more (5 kilos+). Our postage charges are as reasonable as USPS rates allow. ADDITIONAL PURCHASES do receive a VERY LARGE discount, typically about $5 per book (for each additional book after the first) so as to reward you for the economies of combined shipping/insurance costs.
Your purchase will ordinarily be shipped within 48 hours of payment. We package as well as anyone in the business, with lots of protective padding and containers. All of our shipments are fully insured against loss, and our shipping rates include the cost of this coverage (through stamps.com, Shipsaver.com, the USPS, UPS, or Fed-Ex). International tracking is provided free by the USPS for certain countries, other countries are at additional cost.
We do offer U.S. Postal Service Priority Mail, Registered Mail, and Express Mail for both international and domestic shipments, as well United Parcel Service (UPS) and Federal Express (Fed-Ex). Please ask for a rate quotation. Please note for international purchasers we will do everything we can to minimize your liability for VAT and/or duties. But we cannot assume any responsibility or liability for whatever taxes or duties may be levied on your purchase by the country of your residence. If you don’t like the tax and duty schemes your government imposes, please complain to them. We have no ability to influence or moderate your country’s tax/duty schemes.
If upon receipt of the item you are disappointed for any reason whatever, I offer a no questions asked 30-day return policy. Send it back, I will give you a complete refund of the purchase price; 1) less our original shipping/insurance costs, 2) less any non-refundable fees imposed by eBay. Please note that eBay may not refund payment processing fees on returns beyond a 30-day purchase window. So except for shipping costs, we will refund all proceeds from the sale of a return item. Though they generally do, eBay may not always follow suit. Obviously we have no ability to influence, modify or waive eBay policies.
ABOUT US: Prior to our retirement we used to travel to Eastern Europe and Central Asia several times a year seeking antique gemstones and jewelry from the globe’s most prolific gemstone producing and cutting centers. Most of the items we offer came from acquisitions we made in Eastern Europe, India, and from the Levant (Eastern Mediterranean/Near East) during these years from various institutions and dealers. Much of what we generate on Etsy, Amazon and Ebay goes to support worthy institutions in Europe and Asia connected with Anthropology and Archaeology. Though we have a collection of ancient coins numbering in the tens of thousands, our primary interests are ancient/antique jewelry and gemstones, a reflection of our academic backgrounds.
Though perhaps difficult to find in the USA, in Eastern Europe and Central Asia antique gemstones are commonly dismounted from old, broken settings – the gold reused – the gemstones recut and reset. Before these gorgeous antique gemstones are recut, we try to acquire the best of them in their original, antique, hand-finished state – most of them originally crafted a century or more ago. We believe that the work created by these long-gone master artisans is worth protecting and preserving rather than destroying this heritage of antique gemstones by recutting the original work out of existence. That by preserving their work, in a sense, we are preserving their lives and the legacy they left for modern times. Far better to appreciate their craft than to destroy it with modern cutting.
Not everyone agrees – fully 95% or more of the antique gemstones which come into these marketplaces are recut, and the heritage of the past lost. But if you agree with us that the past is worth protecting, and that past lives and the produce of those lives still matters today, consider buying an antique, hand cut, natural gemstone rather than one of the mass-produced machine cut (often synthetic or “lab produced”) gemstones which dominate the market today. We can set most any antique gemstone you purchase from us in your choice of styles and metals ranging from rings to pendants to earrings and bracelets; in sterling silver, 14kt solid gold, and 14kt gold fill. When you purchase from us, you can count on quick shipping and careful, secure packaging. We would be happy to provide you with a certificate/guarantee of authenticity for any item you purchase from us. There is a $3 fee for mailing under separate cover. I will always respond to every inquiry whether via email or eBay message, so please feel free to write.
