Digication ePortfolio :: Metals & Jewelry Resource Guide

DRAFT: This module has unpublished changes.

The first place to look when beginning research on a topic is in reference material: specialized dictionaries, encyclopedias or handbooks. These allow you to check names, dates and places, find additional information, look up unknown terms, and check for the proper spelling of words.

They are particularly helpful for finding basic background information on a topic, and are often the only place many students may need to look to find answers to their questions. They may include bibliographies (lists of additional materials on a topic, usually considered by the author to be the best materials on that topic or at least the material that author used) that you can use to find other materials.

DRAFT: This module has unpublished changes.

Reference Books

The first place to look when beginning research on a topic is in reference material: specialized dictionaries, encyclopedias or handbooks. These allow you to check names, dates and places, find additional information, look up unknown terms, and check for the proper spelling of words. They are particularly helpful for finding basic background information on a topic, and are often the only place many students may need to look to find answers to their questions. They may include bibliographies (lists of additional materials on a topic, usually considered by the author to be the best materials on that topic) that you can use to find other materials.

O'Donaghue, Michael, ed. Gems: Their Sources, Descriptions and Identification. 6th ed. Burlington: Butterworth-Heinemann, 2006.
REF 553.8 G285 2006

This is a very comprehensive resource on all the precious stones.

Arem, Joel E. Color Encyclopedia of Gemstones. 2nd ed. New York: Van Nostrand Reinhold, 1987.

REF 553.803 Ar32c

This reference covers the technical details of precious stones, including data on refraction and cutting.

Todd, Robert. Manufacturing Processes Reference Guide. 1st ed. New York: Industrial Press, 1994.
REF 671.023 T566m 1994

This references breaks down each manufacturing process by knowledge, application, and development.

Jane Turner, ed. The Dictionary of Art. New York: Grove's Dictionaries, 1996.
REF 703 D561t v.1-34 (v.34 has an index)
Also as an online subscription

A great source for the history of jewelry, read the online entries on jewelry, metal, and gems.

Speel, Erika. Dictionary of Enamelling. Brookfield: Ashgate, 1998.

REF 738.4 Sp32d

This dictionary covers the long history of enamelling including important works and enamellers, techniques, and styles.

Hughes, Richard. The Colouring, Bronzing and Patination of Metals: A Manual for Fine Metalworkers, Sculptors and Designers: Cast Bronze, Cast Brass, Copper and Copper-Plate, Gilding Metal, Sheet Yellow Brass, Silver and Silver Plate. London: Thames and Hudson, 1991, 1982.
REF 739.15 H874c

This reference provides information on coloring techniques as well as receipes for bronzing and other patinas.

McGrath, Jinks. The Encyclopedia of Jewelry-Making Techniques. Philadelphia: Running Press, 1995.
REF 739.27028 M459e

This reference covers various jewelry-making techniquesand materials, with step by step details to craft items including brooches and necklaces.

Newman, Harold. An Illustrated Dictionary of Jewelry. New York: Thames & Hudson, 1981.
REF 739.2703 N464i 1981

This well-illustrated volume offers cross-references and bibliographies for further reading.

Lim, Andy, ed. The Compendium Finale of Contemporary Jewellers, 2008. Cologne; New York: Darling Publications, 2009.

REF 739.270922 C738li v.1-2

This set highlights contemporary jewelers and metal artists from all over the world.

Reference Materials & Books