1. Can I buy the individual volumes of the 5th Edition separately?
No. The only reason we have divided the book into three volumes is to make it more manageable to view online.
2. I have an older version of the Handbook of Gemmology and now it does not open. What can I do?
As you may be aware there has been an ongoing battle between Apple and Adobe. This has resulted in many browsers not supporting Adobe Flash Player. Unfortunately, you will need to purchase the new edition to get full functionality since it uses HTML5.
3. Whenever I try to open the handbook on my Mac, it says 'blocked plug in'. What does this mean?
It means that you have an older version that relies on Adobe Flash Player. Please go to FAQ Question 2.
4. I downloaded the file onto my Mac but I get the prompt 'Handbook of Gemmology' can't be opened because it is from an unidentified developer'?
This is a security measure to prevent unauthorized programs from opening. To remedy this, simply follow these instructions.
a. In the Finder, locate the file you want to open. Do not use Launchpad to do this. Launchpad does not allow you to access the
shortcut menu.
b. Press the Control key, then click the file icon.
c. Choose 'Open' from the shortcut menu.
d. Click Open.
5. I tried to open the 'Mac' version but it says the file is corrupted?
Please contact us and we will send you a back-up file through WeTransfer.
6. Where can I buy the digital or printed versions of this book?
We are planning a printed version of the 5th edition in early 2025. For the digital edition, you can buy it through our online shop.
7. What is 'Flipping Book' technology?
It's the latest technology for reading books on your computer. We offer it in both .exe (Windows) and .app (Mac) versions and now it does not require any additional software including Adobe Flash Player. This technology gives you the sensation of reading a printed book but in a digitized format. Unlike a traditional book, flipping book gives you many added features such as a search engine, zoom capabilities, hyperlinked table of contents and index, bookmarks, post-it's, highlighting and hyperlinked cross references. We also believe it adds an element of fun to reading that you cannot get with a traditional book.
8. Who should buy this book?
Whether you have a casual interest in gemstones, wish to become a gemmologist, work in a jewellery store and would like to know more about the products you are selling or are a practicing gemmologist, this book is for you.
9. Do you take credit cards?
We use a combination of Stripe and PayPal depending on the publication. Whether you are a member or simply a guest, both offer you a variety of payment methods and the security of dealing with an established company.
10. Do you offer refunds?
Unfortunately once the digital version has been downloaded we cannot offer a refund.
11. I have purchased the book through a third party, what should I do?
Please ensure that you register your purchase with us by sending an e-mail with information regarding the place and date of purchase.
12. What about future editions?
Once registered, you will be added to our 'Preferred Client' listing and will be notified the moment a new edition is available. You will also receive preferred pricing on any new editions.