Beginning with a description of the properties and physical characteristics of gems, including synthetics and imitations, the authors show the craftsman how to get started, the equipment needed, how to saw, grind, lap, sand, and polish. They cover the grinding and polishing of cabochons, the cutting and polishing of faceted stones, with a special helpful section on dopping, carving and sculpturing gemstones, mosaic and intarsia, plus special polishing problems of gemstones.