Precious Stones and Minerals

Text by Dr. Hermann Bank of Idar-Oberstein

Centre of the German Diamond and Gem Industry

A.. H. & A. W. Reed, 1970, [First Edition], ISBN 589003003, tipped-in colour photographic plates throughout, large hardcover, dustjacket, slipcase

Very Good Condition, a little edge and shelf wear, a little rubbing and bumping to edges and corners, previous owners’ stamp on front endpaper; dustjacket shows a little edge and shelf wear with a little rubbing, bumping and chipping, slipcase shows some wear and discoloration with some rubbing, bumping, chipping (see photographs)

“This book has been compiled under the auspices of the gem – and diamond – cutting industry of Idar-Oberstein, one of the best-known gem centres in the world.  Dr. Hermann Bank who wrote the text is himself a well-known expert.
As first planned the work (in condensed form) was intended for the use of gem experts and those connected with teaching and demonstrations.  However, it quickly became apparent, partly because of the quality of the colour plates and partly because of the wide scope of the contents and uncomplicated nature of the text, that the series of studies as a whole would interest a much wider public.
The commentary is not a scientific work.  It does, however, take into account the mineralogical classifications and in its definitions has tried to co-ordinate the expert experience of many decades.  The book describes technically and visually the priceless products of a fascinating craft and the abundance of natural choice which the world’s mineral and rock formations afford.”