Description
Cambridge The Nature of Diamonds 1997 Edition by George E. Harlow
The paragon of physical perfection and a sparkling example of Earth's forces at work, the diamond has fascinated all realms of society, from Russian tsars and Hollywood stars to scientists and brides-to-be. The Nature of Diamonds is an authoritative and richly illustrated look at nature's most coveted gem. Leading geologists, gemologists, physicists, and cultural observers cover every facet of the stone, from its formation in the depths of the Earth and its explosive ascent to the surface, to its economic, regal, social, and technological roles. The book takes the reader to cutting-edge research on the frontiers of diamond exploration and exploitation, from Arctic wastes to laboratories that create industrial diamonds for cutting tools that slice through rock. Charting the history of mining from its origins in India and Brazil, the book follows the diamond rush in South Africa to today's high-tech enterprises. It provides a glimpse into the economics of the diamond trade, and an overview of diamond cutting, from the rough uncut stones in early Indian and Roman jewelry to the multifaceted stones we see today. The cultural history of the diamond as both a revered and a social symbol is explored, from its early history as the exclusive property of royalty to today's brilliant-laden jewelry as an emblem of wealth and status. The engaging text is complemented by more than 200 lavish illustrations which span fine art, earth science, and cultural studies and capture the brilliance and beauty of this extraordinary gem. Table of contents :- Foreword Ellen Futter; Introduction George E. Harlow; 1. What is Diamond? George E. Harlow; 2. Colour in Diamonds Emmanuel Fritsch; 3. The Origins of Diamonds and Their Role in Earth Processes Melissa Kirkley; 4. Diamond Sources and Their Discoveries Alfred A. Levinson; 5. Following the History of Diamonds George E. Harlow; 6. The Regal Diamond: Six Centuries of Diamond Jewelry Diana Scarisbrick; 7. The Moonstone, or the Diamond in Victorian Literature Carole Slade; 8. Diamond Jewelry for Everyone Janet Zapata; 9. Hollywood Loves Diamonds Maura Spiegel; 10. Diamonds for Everyone George E. Harlow; 11. From Earth to Finished Objects: Processing Diamonds George E. Harlow; 12. Diamonds as Gemstones James Shigley and Thomas Moses; 13. Diamonds in Modern Technology: Synthesis and Applications Alan Collins; Notes; Bibliography; List of Contributors; Index.