The scandals, mysteries, and human stories behind the world’s greatest gems are brought to life by the curator of the Smithsonian’s National Gem Collection

Dr. Jeffrey E. Post, curator of the National Gem Collection for more than 25 years, separates fact from fiction in this fascinating book, revealing fresh information and regaling the reader with anecdotes and tales of some of the world’s greatest and most famous gemstones.

In this gorgeous book, packed with 175 color photos, he tells the stories of the Smithsonian’s most famous gems, including the Hope Diamond, Star of Asia Sapphire, Carmen Lucia Ruby, Hooker Emerald, and Blue Heart Diamond—and also presents the tales, details, and fascinating facts surrounding rarely displayed gems from the Smithsonian vault.

Not only a resource for learning about rare and beautiful gems, the book also presents the stories of the people who once owned or were associated with these jewels—from ordinary people to kings, emperors, maharajas, celebrities, and captains of industry.