Pearls: A Natural History

by Neil H. Landman, Paula Mikkelsen

Based on an exhibition at the American Museum of Natural History in New York and The Field Museum in Chicago, this volume tells the story of pearls, which are unique among gemstones because they require no faceting or shaping to bring out their beauty and luster. Landman and Paul M. Mikkelsen of the American Museum of Natural History), and Rndiger Bieler and Bennet Bronson of The Field Museum explore the biology, gemology, anthropology, mineralogy, ecology, and the decorative arts aspects. Starting with the Great Age of Pearls in the 16th and 17th centuries, they move to the history of pearling cultures worldwide, the science of pearl, the development of cultured pearls, and the ecology and conservation of pearl-producing mollusks. Extensively illustrated with color photographs and tables. 9.25x11.25. Annotation c. Book News, Inc., Portland, OR (booknews.com)

Genres: Art, Nature, Biology, Nonfiction, Science, Photography

232 pages, Paperback

First published October 1, 2001

Reviews

[Keith · Rating 4 out of 5]

I liked it. A comprehensive overview of how pearls became valuable through various cultures and how they form chemically and biologically. Never thought I would care about pearls but they have a very important and unexpected role in our history.

[Samantha McGuire Mirror Bridge Jewelry) · Rating 5 out of 5]

I just recently received this book in the mail and it far exceeded my expectations. It is basically like a school textbook all about one specific little gem, the pearl! It discusses how pearls form, the different oysters/pearl types, collecting pearls, history of pearls, and more. It is a priceless addition to any library and the photos in the book are really great as well...