This new 6th Edition of the Pearl Buying Guide has major updates on new types of pearls and jewelry styles, extended chapters on natural pearls and unique pearl jewelry with colored gems, and 186 new color photos of pearls and pearl jewelry. The total number of photos is 364 in addition to several charts and diagrams. Although technical data is included to aid gemologists in detecting treatments and distinguishing between natural and cultured pearls, the easy reading style and numerous photos make this a customer-friendly book. Library Journal review description of previous edition of the Pearl Buying Guide: ''An interesting and easy-to-understand guide to buying, evaluating, selecting and caring for pearls and pearl jewelry. The opening chapters point out common mistakes made when buying pearls. Other chapters focus on evaluating pearl types and shapes, luster, nacre thickness, color, flaws, size, and make. Additional chapters cite differences in South Sea, black, and freshwater pearls as well as imitation, natural and cultured pearls. The closing chapters highlight the proper way to care for pearls as well as creative ways to wear them. The many photographs are valuable in illustrating the characteristics of and differences among pearls. Overall the guide is useful to all types of readers, from the professional jeweler to the average patron.''