As entertaining as it is incisive, Stoned is a raucous journey through the history of human desire for what is rare, and therefore precious. What makes a stone a jewel? What makes a jewel priceless? And why do we covet beautiful things? In this brilliant account of how eight jewels shaped the course of history, jeweler and scientist Aja Raden tells an original and often startling story about our unshakeable addiction to beauty and the darker side of human desire. What moves the world is what moves each of us: desire. Jewelry-which has long served as a stand-in for wealth and power, glamor and success-has birthed cultural movements, launched political dynasties, and started wars. Masterfully weaving together pop science and history, Stoned breaks history into three categories-Want, Take, and Have-and explains what the diamond on your finger has to do with the GI Bill, why green-tinted jewelry has been exalted by so many cultures, why the glass beads that bought Manhattan for the Dutch were initially considered a fair trade, and how the French Revolution started over a coveted necklace. Studded with lively personalities and fascinating details, Stoned tells the remarkable story of our abiding desire for the rare and extraordinary.

This travel guide is for anyone considering a trip to the beautiful country of Sri Lanka in search of a special memory to treasure forever. Written by Kim Rix, a gemmologist (GIA) and professional photographer who has travelled to more than 50 countries, this unique book unveils how you can become a `Gemstone Detective' on your next adventure. If you are considering purchasing a gemstone or piece of jewellery, this book is essential reading on the plane over to Sri Lanka! It is a mine of expert advice, insider information and practical tips to help you better understand the gemstone and jewellery market. As well as offering country-specific background and up-to-the-minute advice, the `Gemstone Detective' series, is a `how to' guide for anyone who wants to experience the fun, excitement and romance of buying unique and beautiful gems or jewellery in countries around the world renowned for their natural gemstones. Kim Rix is dedicated to visiting each country in the `Gemstone Detective' series to provide readers with the best advice and easy-to-follow steps to help travellers avoid the pitfalls, scams and disappointments of a bad buying decision.

While multiple books, providing detailed information on Pearls and other fine jewels or Gems, have previously been published. None of these have ever provided the information from Abalone - Zooplankton of pearls and in the same depth and detail as Pearls of Creation does. This non-fiction, easy-to-read text-book style format is intended to help you to increase your knowledge of, interest in and love, of Pearls. Dive right in and discover all the latest information available on the Pearl farm industry at your fingertips. This book features up-to-date, verified information, acquired from many sources, including the 6 incredible, world renowned Pearl Farms highlighted in the book.