The nature of diamonds /

In this comprehensive and authoritative treatment of the diamond in all aspects--as a remarkable mineral, an extraordinary gemstone, and a precious jewel with a fascinating history--Harlow, curator of gems and minerals at the American Museum of Natural History, shares the writing of this well-organized work with a dozen recognized scholars in geology, gemology, and related themes from history and literature. The book opens with the mineralogy and geology of diamonds and their earth sources; the second part addresses the roles of diamonds in history and culture--in a unique world trade, as regal ornaments, as treasure, and as symbols of wealth. The last section examine the finding and using of diamonds, from mining and gem cutting to technical applications. The book is very well illustrated with maps, diagrams, site photographs, and several series of rich color photographs showing diamond gems and jewelry. It has broader and newer coverage than Eric Bruton's Diamonds (2nd ed., CH, Sep'79). Chapter notes; ample index. Highly recommended for libraries serving patrons in the earth sciences and general readers of geography and cultural history. General readers; undergraduates through faculty. W. C. Peters University of Arizona