The late Akira Chikayama was a noted gemologist who considered the Dictionary of Gemstones & Jewelry his personal “world heritage.” Indeed, the very scope of this dictionary is impressive. Entries include gems, minerals, sources, synthetics, treatments, jewelry findings, tools used in gem cutting and jewelry making, famous gemologists, scientists, mineralogists, and artists—the list goes on.
A massive undertaking to begin with, the book was translated from Japanese to English. But it did contain some minor errors. In the listing for the Searcy diamond, for example, there appears a photo of the Sancy. In the entry for “abraded culet,” the author likened it to an open culet, which I do not agree with. And seeing entries on Gübelin, Kunz, and Shipley made me wonder why Dana, Liddicoat, and Sinkankas were not included.
But as a general reference, the book serves its purpose well. The appendices alone are useful, covering a wide range of subjects and providing charts on birthstones, ring sizes, hallmarks, and more. Overall, this volume would make a nice addition to any gemological library if cost is not an issue.
Reviewed by Jana Miyahira-Smith
GIA, Carlsbad
The late Akira Chikayama was a noted gemologist who considered the Dictionary of Gemstones & Jewelry his personal “world heritage.” Indeed, the very scope of this dictionary is impressive. Entries include gems, minerals, sources, synthetics, treatments, jewelry findings, tools used in gem cutting and jewelry making, famous gemologists, scientists, mineralogists, and artists—the list goes on.
A massive undertaking to begin with, the book was translated from Japanese to English. But it did contain some minor errors. In the listing for the Searcy diamond, for example, there appears a photo of the Sancy. In the entry for “abraded culet,” the author likened it to an open culet, which I do not agree with. And seeing entries on Gübelin, Kunz, and Shipley made me wonder why Dana, Liddicoat, and Sinkankas were not included.
But as a general reference, the book serves its purpose well. The appendices alone are useful, covering a wide range of subjects and providing charts on birthstones, ring sizes, hallmarks, and more. Overall, this volume would make a nice addition to any gemological library if cost is not an issue.
Reviewed by Jana Miyahira-Smith
GIA, Carlsbad
