Precious stones are masterpieces of nature and their mysterious shimmer has fascinated man since time immemorial. This overview publication briefly conveys the history of precious stones, introduces the materials most often processed and used in the past. Precious stones reveal to us the life and problems of ancient civilizations. Through unique illustrations, beautiful photographs and exterior shots, the reader will be drawn directly into times long gone by.

The book is unique in its scope; it represents a summary of current knowledge on the subject. It will be used by experts in various ancient civilizations and those interested in mineralogy and archaeology, but it will certainly also interest every lover of beauty, history and precious stones.