Recommended Books About Faceting

These are some books we recommend, and others may have their favorites. Many of these may be found at used book stores and libraries; getting the information does not have to be expensive! Remember, every machine that we know of comes with a small manual that will give you enough of the basics to cut your first few stones; these are books that will give you more detail and reference materials that will enhance the quantity and variety of information about faceting.

• If you are only going to purchase one book, this is it: Faceting for Amateurs by Glenn and Martha Vargas. This is one reference that many consider the "Bible" of gemcutting; a great "how to" reference as well as a wealth of information on gem characteristics that lists which polishing media are most likely to work for which minerals.
  "Faceting for Amateurs" is available through the Facet Shoppe. Order this book, here:
• Gem Cutting by John Sinkankas. This is a great reference for all of the lapidary arts, including faceting, and a very complete section on gem characteristics with listings of which polishing media are most likely to work for which minerals. Any book by John Sinkankas is well worth looking into!

Faceting Diagrams

There are many books that are basicly collections of diagrams for faceting; some are collections of cuts by various people, and others are collections by one person. When you find some of these, look through and see if the cuts appeal to you.

Long & Steele have a series called "Facet Design" that is excellent for diagrams and information about the "theory" behind optical performance and gem cuts. Vol 1- Ovals; Vol 2- Naivete/Marquise; Vol 3- Hearts & Pears; Vol 4- Rectangle and Emerald designs; Vol 5- Rounds; Vol 6- Barions; Vol 7- Antique Square Cushion.
All "Facet Design" volumes are available at the Facet Shoppe, as well as "Introduction to Meetpoint Faceting" by Long & Steele
Order this book, here:

Vargas has a 3-volume series called "Diagrams for Faceting" that has directions that allow for altering the cuts to adjust to the rough. The "Diagrams for Faceting" series of books are all available at the Facet Shoppe:
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Recommended Books About Minerals / Faceting Materials.

• Gem and Lapidary Materials by June Culp Zeitner. A comprehensive overview of lapidary materials, including some polishing tips and specific comments for some minerals relating to the characteristics of pieces from various locations. Fairly new book, and well done with lots of pictures.
• Gemstone & Mineral Data Book Another exceptionally well done resource by John Sinkankas; this one will answer more questions than most people ever have... ;-)
• Gemstones of the World by Walter Schumann: lots of pictures in glorious color featuring rough and cut gemstones. A great reference and "wish list"!
• Field Guide to North American Rocks and Minerals The Audubon Society. Another great reference with color pictures and lots of data for those that like to go out and find their own.

Use this opportunity to check out our quality faceting rough or take advantage of our discount prices on our full line of quality lapidary equipment and supplies. We offer prompt, courteous service, shipping on most items within 24 hours, a no-nonsense satisfaction guarantee, and excellent after-sale support.

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