Meyer D. Rothschild’s A Hand-book of Precious Stones is a practical guide to gems, describing the principal precious and ornamental stones, their qualities, and their use in jewelry. It serves as a reference for buyers, collectors, and the curious, covering identification, value, and the lore surrounding each stone.
As an accessory to fashion and adornment, precious stones occupy a special place in the history of personal ornament, and this handbook captures the period’s knowledge of them. Rothschild’s practical approach suits both trade and amateur. A useful primer on gems and jewelry, it is offered here as a free EPUB download.