By Farhad Azad
January - March 1998
Lemar-Aftaab
Gemstones of Afghanistan, written by
Gary W. Bowersox
and Dr. Bonita E.
Chamberlin, is a very fulfilling book that depicts
gemstones of Afghanistan
and also discusses the mining methods used.
Both of the authors have traveled several times
to Afghanistan since 1972
and
have
experience and expertise in the mining regions of
North-Eastern Afghanistan; moreover, they
have placed much care and
organization in writing this book.
The book discusses in great detail seven
specific Afghan gemstones:
Lapis Lazuli (Lazhward) of Badakhshan,
Spinel (Lal or Balas Ruby) of
Badakhshan, Ruby (Yakut) of Jegdalek,
Sapphire(Yakut Kabut) of Gandamak,
Emerald (Zamrud) of Panjshir, Tourmaline
(Berouche) of Nuristan, Kunzite
(Kunzite) of Nuristan, and Aquamarine (Neelam)
of Nuristan. Gemstones of
Afghanistan is full of photographs, maps,
figures, as well as satellite
coordinates of mines. The text is relaxing
to read for casual reading
and it is also useful for reference and
research in gemological studies.
Each chapter focuses on the specific
stones and begins with the
“Legends and Lore” which is followed
by “descriptions and location” of
the
gems and then
proceeded by “Geology
and Topography”, “Historical Notes”, “Mining
Methods, “Production”, and finally “Properties.” By breaking down each
gemstone into these specific sections, the reader gains a comprehensive
knowledge of the ancient history with accurate description,
explicit methods of mining, extended past and current production, and
the value of the gem.
The reader can recognize the importance that the
gemstones of Afghanistan have played in the
history of the world --
from the ancient inhabitants of Mesopotamia
to the use of the gems by
the Greek physicians and the treasure chests
of the Pharoas of Egypt. The
book stresses how these vast untapped
minerals could help in
rebuilding the war-torn economy of Afghanistan.
Most of all, the authors
do a superb and excellent job in showing
and unveiling the once hidden
treasures of the ancient land. Gemstones
of Afghanistan is a must read
for all that are interested in the
history, culture, and the enormous riches
that
Afghanistan has to offer.
You can orderGemstones of Afghanistan at
http://www.gems-afghan.com/orderfrm.htm
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