The Curious Lore of Precious Stones

by George Frederick Kunz

Book Overview

This foundational study of gemstone lore presents a comprehensive history of precious and semi-precious stones and a survey of their particular properties. Author George Frederick Kunz--America's... This description may be from another edition of this product.

• Format: Paperback
• Language: English
• ISBN: 0486222276
• ISBN13: 9780486222271
• Release Date: June 1971
• Publisher: Dover Publications
• Length: 512 Pages
• Weight: 1.25 lbs.
• Dimensions: 1.1" x 5.5" x 8.4"

Customer Reviews

Curious Lore of Precious Stones

Good old fashioned stuff by someone who lived for gemstones. Very interesting and informative. Quick delivery.

Classic on Gemstone Lore

I bought this book because Kunz's work has been the basis for much of what we know about ancient gemstone lore. Kunz's lifelong passion for rocks and gemstones began in childhood and as a gemologist and geologist, he was able to collect and organize vast amounts of gemstone lore. He was also a collector of stones, amulets and magical charms, many of which were donated to the American Museum of Natural History. His enthusiasm for the subject is evident and even though this book is nearly 100 years old, I found it surprisingly easy to read.

A precious book

Interesting book dealing about precious stone and their lore in the past.

The Curious Lore of Precious Stones;

I bought this book because I enjoy buying gemstones and rocks and just for fun I wanted to know more about the traditional properties that were associated with them. This book written in 1912 and was last reprinted in 1971. Author, George Frederick Kunz, was no doubt the leading expert of his time. The book is full of all kinds of information, from every religion and culture, and was very well researched. He quotes literature from ancient times through what was known up to his time. His writing style is also consistent with his times, so modern readers may find it a little stiff. There are newer lapidaries available...this is a good and entertaining reference.

A timeless classic devoted to gemstone lore.

Geoge Frederick Kunz's contribution as a gemmologisy at the beginning of the century earned him universal fame and respect, even to the point that one the most popular stones in modern energy work is named after him: Kunzite. Dover has published a reprint of his 1913 monument to the "hidden" side of gems: The Curious Lore of Precious Stones. This 400 page volume contains a wealth of material based on medieval lapidary tomes, history, folklore,the Bible, the Eddas, archeological findings, and oral traditions still alive at the time of Kunz's writing. The casual or serious reader cannot help but be impressed by the depth of understanding Kunz deplayed in page after page of riches associated with all aspects of gems and their uses. Thank you, Dover, for allowing us access to this remarkable book.