Books on Birthstones

James and Alda Jangl have compiled one little paperback with a fascinating collection of stories about gems from down the ages. Ancient Legends of Gems and Jewels ( ISBN 0942647009 )At 38 pages, this is a good book for light reading such as while journeying.

Another small book, this one for kids - The Birthday Jewelry Book by Lisa Broder ( ISBN 0689841779 ). This brightly illustrated book explains the major birthstone gems in simple language and also has stickers for children to play and learn. A good gift for kids.

Birthstone Coloring Book : Birthstone Legends and Other Gem Folklore ( ISBN 0942647033 ) : This one is a sort of combination of the above two books. A children's activity book which gives basic information about each birthstone and also a tale for each one.

If you are looking for a book dealing comprehensively with the subject of birthstones, you may try Birthstones by Willard Allison Heaps ( ISBN 0696532840 )

Considering the close association of gems with astrology and spells, healing and magic, it is only natural to expect some serious stuff in that direction. Scott Cunningham, a practicing magician of the 20th century, had published Cunningham's Encyclopedia of Crystal, Gem & Metal Magic ( ISBN 0875421261 ) . This 240 page hardcover tome was considered a classic guide in its subject area, though it had some critics who questioned the depth of information available in the book about gems.

One man who was considered a foremost expert in the field was George Frederick Kunz . His books are valued reference matrerial which are quoted by many, including a number of websites about birthstones. Check out, if you can get a hold of a copy:
1.) The Curious Lore of Precious Stones; Being a Description of Their Sentiments and Folk Lore, Superstitions, Symbolism, Mysticism, Use in Medicine, Pro ( ISBN 0486222276 )
2.) Mystical Lore of Precious Stones: Astrology, Birth Stones, Therapeutic & Religious Uses ( ISBN 9997186176 )