The Chemistry, Properties and Tests of Precious Stones

"The Chemistry, Properties and Tests of Precious Stones" by John Mastin is a scientific exploration from the early 1900s that breaks down the chemical makeup, physical qualities, and testing methods of valuable gems, making complex information accessible to both science experts and everyday readers; it starts by defining what makes a stone "precious," pointing out that rarity and popularity affect a gem's worth, then the book highlights key features like hardness, color, and crystal shapes as a way to classify gems, preparing the reader for a deeper understanding of these stones and how they are studied.