GEMSTONES OF AFGHANISTAN is the first comprehensive, fully-documented book on the geology, history, and lore of the gems and minerals of this war-ravaged crossroads between the Near East and the Far East. GEMSTONES OF AFGHANISTAN features stunning color photographs, original maps, and geographic coordinates of significant mines. The authors have compiled a wide-ranging and thorough set of references that, like the book, will prove invaluable to jewelers, gem buyers, geologists, historians, and those who seek to make a careful assessment of the riches Afghanistan has to offer. GEMSTONES OF AFGHANISTAN is the first complete reference on gemstones of Afghanistan - the results of 23 years of researching over 6,500 years of history. o Hardcover, glossy 81/2" x 11", 244-page collection edition o 110 photographs, maps and figures, including 52 in color o History of geology and gem mining in Afghanistan, describing mining methods and production o Detailed topographical and geological maps pinpoint gem and mineral deposits o Over 1,400 gem and mineral locations by coordinates o 2,000 years of geological, geographical and gemological exploration o Over 500 references and suggested readings o Color photographs of new cutting styles, carved gems and new jewelry designs