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| Tiger's Eye Quartz |
Dear Bookclub,
Unexpected treasures awaited as we were treated to a very special tour at the Gem Institute of America in Carlsbad, thanks to Wanda's kind invitation. What a gem McKenzie Santimer is as the CIA's Museum Director, graciously presenting wonder after wonder to our little group of ten. Her passion and knowledge barely edged her style and presence. The architecture of the building, the history and science of the rocks and minerals in the GIA's collection, and the concept of an institute to promote education, credentialing and research, took us to an unexpected level of appreciation.
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| McKenzie |
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| one big tiger's eye |
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| Our fantastic group! |
Our delve into the world of gems was enhanced by the enthusiastic inclusion of two Jim's and a Bruce. Joining us for a lunch at the nearby Fish Market, our book discussion was light with little encouragement from the loud surroundings and a long table. Aja Raden's "Stoned" was well-received, providing a springboard into our understanding of the history of human obsession with jewels. At my end of the table, a small criticism: we were not enthralled with Raden's sarcastic interjections, humor that fell a cut short. Perhaps the other end of the table felt differently but conversation, like my plate of french fries, was difficult to share. Mid-table-Terrie shared her appreciation for Victoria Finlay's "Jewels", a book she impressively read along with "Stoned", which gave her a deeper education about precious stones.
Both books have gorgeous covers that make this little gem-loving heart look twice:
For an interesting dive into more beautiful covers holding amazing content, pleases visit GIA's links to their quarterly journal, Gems & Gemology: https://www.gia.edu/gems-gemology
Val's suggestions for an upcoming read:
"After Annie" Anna Quindlen *chosen
"Stealing the Show, A History of Art and Crime in Six Thefts" John Barelli
"The Porcelain Thief: Searching the Middle Kingdom for Buried China" Huan Hsu
Up next:
Happy reading,
LK
