corundum, India.12, jewelry, gems, Indian lapidary

The most recent comprehensive work on the subject, distinguished by its authoritative text and wealth of illustrations. The text discusses the vogue for beads in India, ancient jewelry forms, Muslim jewelry types, modern trends, the craft of the goldsmith, precious stones, and advice for collectors. The chapter on precious stones (pp. 134–150) deals primarily with the traditional lore associated with gems in India, but also includes information on several famous stones, their owners, and elementary gemological data. The volume concludes with a list of Indian ornaments. References are provided at the end of each chapter; however, although the author cites the Journal of Indian Art & Industry for many illustrations, she fails to credit its author, T.H. Hendley (q.v.). The text paper is browned and brittle.