Gems have been alluring to men throughout history. They are prized for their rarity and the matchless beauty that proceeds from their inherently noble traits. The riches of this book are revealed in sumptuous illustrations ant a text that embraces both the science and romance of gems. How gems were first taken from the Earth. Endowed with mystical and curative powers, converted and revered through the ages, is all part of this fascinating narrative by Paul E. Desautels, curator of gems and minerals for the Smithsonian Institution...