This guide helps buyers to evaluate these spectacular gems and it updates professionals on new treatments and sources of corundum and emerald. Using close-up photographs, the book shows how to make visual judgements about clarity. transparency, cut quality and brilliance. In addition, it helps you to understand lab reports and find appraisers and labs. You will also get tips on detecting imitations and synthetic stones. Let this guide provide the in-depth information you will need to be a smart buyer. Topics in this guide include: Quality evaluation; Gem treatments; Fakes and synthetics; Lab reports; Geographic sources; Appraisals; Gem cleaning & care; Savvy buying.