Combining stunning photographs with expert knowledge, this book is a dazzling guide to precious stones, organic gems, and precious metals. Discover the intriguing stories of the world’s most famous and fabulous gems, including the mysterious Hope Diamond, the stunning Koh-i-Noor of the Crown Jewels, and exquisite Faberge eggs.Trace the history of gemmology, learn all about the key characteristics of precious and semi-precious stones, and discover the science behind some of their more unusual and mysterious properties.