Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I buy the individual volumes of the 5th Anniversary Printed Edition separately?

No. The only reason we have divided the book into two volumes is because at 1342 pages, it is too big for a single volume.

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. As of October 20th, 2019, a new digital edition has been released that uses HTML5. In order to maintain full functionality, the 4th edition (digital) has been divided into two volumes (identical to the two volume printed set). If you are a registered user of the book and have an older version, please contact us and we will be happy to upgrade you, free of charge, to the new HTML5 edition. Please note that the 4th Edition also comes with 'Online' access.

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?

Right here...right now. Simply go to our on-line shop to buy the download. Unfortunately the 5th Anniversary Printed Edition is sold out.

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?

Our e-commerce site is set up to take Stripe. Whether you are a member or simply a guest, Stripe offers 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. Why do you no longer offer individual file formats?

There are several reasons. We felt it was confusing to be faced with so many different buying options and now that we are offering online access, we believe it is far simpler to have two downloads (Volume One and Two) instead of five.

12. What about future editions?

If you have purchased our book through a third party, please ensure that you register your purchase with us, by sending us an e-mail with information regarding the place and date of purchase. 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.

13. Do you offer the digital book on a data DVD?

No. Earlier editions were available in this format but today most computers do not have a disk drive and we have found that this option is now unnecessary. For third party sellers, we do provide download and online access codes that are separately packaged.

14. Can I get expedited shipping for the printed books?

Absolutely, simply e-mail us at rsvp@handbookofgemmology.com. and we will be happy to provide you with a pro-forma invoice and instructions on how to pay for it through our website.