BooksDirect

Description - Crystal and Gems: From Mythical Properties to Magical Stories by DK

An illustrated guide to gemstones and crystals, the myths and stories behind them, and the world's most celebrated jewellery

Discover the history of precious, semi-precious, and organic gemstones, their scientific properties, their mythical powers, and their traditional uses.

Humans have been beguiled and fascinated by gemstones and crystals since prehistory, and made use of them for everything from currency and ceremonial decoration to tokens of love or power. But why have some been considered more significant than others - rare or otherwise?

Learn all about the key characteristics of precious and semi-precious stones, and discover the science behind some of their more unusual and mysterious properties, and the various ways in which they have taken on powerful symbolic meanings. How did the Vikings use iolite to help them steer their ships, for example? And why did the Ancient Greeks and Romans believe that sardonyx could protect them in battle?

Encounter the fascinating stories of some of the most famous or celebrated gemstones and jewels along the way - from a turquoise-studded pectoral worn during Aztec ceremonies, to the diamond necklace that helped to bring about the French Revolution - in this glorious celebration of precious, semi-precious, and organic stones in all their beauty and variety.

Buy Crystal and Gems: From Mythical Properties to Magical Stories by DK from Australia's Online Independent Bookstore, BooksDirect.

A Preview for this title is currently not available.
The Oceans Atlas: A Pictorial Guide to the World's Waters
DK
Hardback , Sep '23
20% OFF!
RRP: $32.99 $26.39
1,000 Amazing Dinosaur Facts
DK
Paperback , Jun '23
20% OFF!
RRP: $32.99 $26.39
DK Top 10 Florence and Tuscany
Paperback , Aug '23
20% OFF!
RRP: $19.99 $15.99
Bible Characters Visual Encyclopedia
DK
Hardback , Mar '18
20% OFF!
RRP: $24.99 $19.99
Star Wars The Story of Darth Vader
DK
Hardback , Sep '15
20% OFF!
RRP: $9.99 $7.99
Be Plastic Clever
DK
Paperback , May '20
20% OFF!
RRP: $14.99 $11.99
Star Wars Rogue One Secret Mission
DK
Hardback , Dec '16
20% OFF!
RRP: $12.99 $10.39
Star Wars Star Pilot
DK
Hardback , Sep '15
20% OFF!
RRP: $9.99 $7.99