The chemistry, properties and tests of precious stones

About this book

John Mastin’s work is a practical handbook on the mineralogy of gems, written in response to a request from London jewelers for a concise reference that gathers the essential chemistry, physical properties, and testing methods of precious stones. The book opens with a detailed preface that explains its purpose, to serve both specialists and curious laypeople, and then launches into a systematic treatment that begins with a definition of what makes a stone “precious,” followed by chapters on origin, crystalline structure, cleavage, light, colour, hardness, specific gravity, heat, and magnetic and electric influences. The contents list and the early pages reveal a methodical layout, promising clear explanations of each property and the techniques used to distinguish genuine gems from imitations.

The text reflects the scholarly tone of early‑20th‑century scientific writing, combining meticulous description with occasional literary flourishes. Mastin’s prose is formal yet accessible, peppered with historical anecdotes and occasional biblical references, giving the material a cultured, almost didactic feel. Readers who enjoy a blend of rigorous mineralogical detail and broader cultural context, such as gemologists, collectors, historians of science, or anyone fascinated by the natural processes that produce diamonds, rubies, and opals, will find this volume both informative and engaging.