Gem & ornamental materials of organic origin

An ideal reference book, the ‘Gem and Ornamental Materials of Organic Origin' is a unique source of information on this neglected topic of gemmology. A comprehensive list of materials is included and each is presented with details of its origin, availability and conservation status, examples of, and a brief history of, their use. Organics fit together because of their origins, because they are constantly used together, have similar histories and were the earliest gem materials used. 200 colour images are included for ease of reference and identification, allowing you to identify this material by sight, avoiding the usual gemological tests which ruin them. Organics occur in modern and antique jewellery, in decorative items and in some furniture, and this book draws all the information together to provide the first complete overview of the subject.

Introduction, Amber Jet, Ivory, Bone, Antler, Rhino horn, Horn, Tortoiseshell, Pearl, Shell, Coral, Lesser known or used organics, Plastics, Charts, Glossary, Bibliography, Index

Gemmologists - student and professional. Jewellers, gemstone dealers, decorative art professionals, collectors.

'a particualrly timely and very welcome addition to antiques literature...you could not want a more comprehensive or more clearly written guide to organic matterials. Although comprehensively illustrated in colour, the success of a book like this relies above all on an ability to write with authority in an accessible, non-technical way. Maggie Campbell Pedersen is to be applauded for producing a volume of genuine use to dealers, collectors and museum curators.'Antiques & Collectables, June 2004'This is a very interesting book which draws together a vast amount of information which would otherwise require delving into many sources from a wide range of disciplines... For the antique dealer, jeweller and gemmologist this book would be a most useful addition to their bookshelves'Journal of Gem