Handbook of Gem Identification, first published in 1947 and extensively revised over the years, is an authoritative look at the methods used to identify both common and rare gemstones. This reprint of the 6th edition, published in 1962, updates the original work and incorporates much new information. As the author states: "Although many books have been written describing gemstones and their occurrence, there is a need for books which give both the jeweler and the layman with limited equipment an outline for making the simple and often conclusive tests that identify gems. If properly used this handbook will help to fill that need."
From the Foreword to the first edition: Today jewelers and the general public are better informed concerning gems than ever before. In the United States, this is due in large measure to the wide dissemination of gemological information during the last quarter of a century through the publication of authoritative texts on gems, the formation of many mineralogical clubs, and especially through the activities of the Gemological Institute of America, founded in 1931, and of the American Gem Society, organized in 1934. For some time, however, it has been recognized that there is need for a manual describing in detail the various methods and procedures to be followed in the identification of gems. This need is now being supplied by Richard T. Liddicoat's Handbook of Gem Identification.
By his excellent scientific training and his extensive experience at the Gemological Institute of America, Mr. Liddicoat is well qualified to author an authoritative handbook. Moreover, he has had the benefit of the counsel and advice of Director Robert M. Shipley and others at the Institute.
In the opening chapters, the essentials concerning the important properties of gemstones are described in a lucid manner. Manufactured stones and the instruments used for testing are discussed in several chapters. The main portion of the book is devoted to the tests and procedures to be followed in the identification of gemstones, which are grouped according to As the tests and procedures are outlined in great detail, there should be no difficulty whatever in following them. The book also includes useful tables of properties, a glossary, and various flow charts.
This handbook should prove to be very helpful in the making of accurate determinations of gemstones. It is a valuable addition to gemological literature, and will be welcomed by dealers in, and lovers of, gems.