Kraus. Excellent book for the amateur lapidary and hobbyist. Presents different types of gem cutting and polishing , from tumbled stones, cabochons and bead making to sphere making, carving, and faceting. Describes basic processes and techniques and provides helpful hints. Explains equipment used. Photos on every page, many in full color.

 196 pages. Softbound.

Cox. Illustrations, photos, and detailed instructions will tell and show you how to cut a cabochon. Everything to start you on your way to expert cutting.

Riggle. Subjects cover methods of cutting and polishing gemstones with diamond abrasives, from using saw blades on trim and slab saws to diamond grinding wheels and machines. Well illustrated with drawings and photographs.

Ward. Contains everything you need to know to properly care for your jewelry and gems from abalone to zoisite. When to use ultrasonic cleaners; which chemicals are safe; how to care for pearls; how to clean precious metals, and much more. Illustrated throughout with the high quality photos that characterize this series.

32 pages.

Schumann. With nearly a million copies in print, this revised and expanded edition is the most complete book ever published on the subject. All known gemstone types are discussed, and over 1,500 multi-color photos showcase each gemstone in both its natural state and its polished and cut renditions. A special section on rocks as precious Stones is included as well as new-on-the-market stones, synthetics and imitations. The essential reference for hobbyists, jewelers and rockhounds.

320 pgs.

This popular series focuses on individual gems, their color, history and lore. Gives buying tips and sources. All books in the series feature beautiful color photos throughout. Shp. Wt. 1 lb. ea.

64 pages

Carlson. Gorgeously present 12" x 9" photo journal of banded agate sites from around the world, with over 260 museum quality color agate photos. Explore the beautiful features of each specimen as well as the collecting histories for each site; full glossary, references and index.

160 pages.

Smith, A guide to tumble-polishing rough rock into finished gemstones. Covers basic types of equipment, selecting materials, fillers, abrasives, etc. along with steps in processing. Covers stone and metal polishing in rotary and vibratory type tumblers. Illustrated with charts in easy-to-follow style. Spiral-bound.

Wexler. Step-by-step instructions for turning pebbles and rough stones into sparkling jewels. A guide to the type of tumbling equipment available and how to use it.

32 pages.

Victor. Gives detailed information on the various stages of grinding and polishing, how to avoid common mistakes, types of tumblers, and a section on baroque jewelry making. Illustrated.

58 pages.

Wertz. An easy-to-follow book on carving gemstones. A complete guide for amateurs with step-by-step instructions for carving flat work, in the round, and portraits in stone. Filled with instructions and photos.

47 pages.

Stage. Covers materials suitable for carving; anatomy, proportion, motion in figures; and equipment. Photos.

 46 pages

Pabian, Jackson ,Tandy and Cromartle. The agate is one of the world's most strikingly beautiful semi-precious gems, and collectors worldwide are drawn to the stone's infinite variety of colorations and banding. This identification guide is comprehensive and easy-to-use. It is illustrated throughout with full color photographs and includes a worldwide listing of where agates are found. Hard cover,

192 pages.