Gemstones of the World by Walter Schumann (1997, Hardcover, Revised)

I had the chance recently to go to a Jewelers Supply Store and browse the books for sale. Previously, online, I had seen many of the books that were being offered at the store and had been watching about 7 auctions to buy. It was therefore an eye opening experience to see the actual books! Honestly, this book "Gemstones of the World" wasn't even on my list of auctions to watch! Another gemstone book that I had thought was very good for recognizing gemstones was mostly a black and white book with only about 15-20 pages of pictures. So, after carefully comparing, I found that the Gemstones of the World Book by Walter Schumann to be the most informative book with plenty of pictures (1500 photos), information, locations where a gemstone is mined, packed with references including gem terminology definitions, crystal systems & structure, diagrams of gemstone cuts and even a map of the world with reference to which gem is mined in which country. It's a nice size book, well made, priced right and a handy reference that I certainly will use for years to come.