42 pages. Published for the authors (copyright 1995)

By W.S.Maney & Sons Ltd, Leeds, England.

Reviewed by Jim Looney

            A rare treat a waits the reader of this concise yet fascinating study of an extremely rare, large chameleon diamond. This 22.28 carat gem exhibits multiple phenomena that are still poorly understood by scientists. Sixteen color photographs and several clear charts accompany the well written text. When gently heated over an alcohol lamp (a lab technique), this unique stone changes from a grayish yellowish green to yellow. Upon cooling, it reverts to its “stable” color again. Additionally, after being kept in dark storage for a length of time, it turns yellow yet again being exposed to light. In ultraviolet light this amazing stone glows an intense yellow, and following this an intense “firefly” phosphorescence persists for several minutes more without any heat or light excitement.

             These unusual color-change phenomena are discussed in technical terms not all inaccessible to a layperson or non-gemologist. Finally, an exclusive “insider’s” view of the adventure of scientific quest and the day-to-day world of research gemology greets the reader in the final section. Except for the mix-up of photo captions on page 38 and 39, this is an excellent book for both the diamond connoisseur and the lover of quality, rarity and those phenomena of nature that leave one amazed and in awe.