Gems

Book excerpt: Enter into the fascinating world of precious gems through this unique volume that brings together the wonders of mineralogy and masterpieces of jewelry. Both a reference book and an exhibition catalog, Gems unveils the fascinating world of minerals and gems through a dialogue between the prestigious collections of the Muséum national d'histoire naturelle in Paris and the great French jeweler Van Cleef & Arpels. The Muséum national d'histoire naturelle in Paris welcomes the exhibition Gems from September 16, 2020‒May 4, 2021. This beautifully illustrated volume brings together an international team of mineralogists, scientists, and specialists in natural history and in the history of jewelry, under the editorial direction of François Farges, to explore the diversity of the mineral universe through an exceptional selection of geological specimens (some published here for the first time), legendary gems, and exceptional ornaments created throughout history. Raw crystals, cut stones, and jewelry are compared and contrasted, shedding light on both the natural wonders made by the Earth itself and the virtuoso creations of human hands that transform them into works of art.