Another magazine that I have long been familiar with. I have been a subscriber for a number of years and still refer back to my grandfathers old issues. This is a high quality magazine that is meant for a slightly more elegant audience than Rock & Gem. This is more for a jeweler or gemstone collector. Rock & Gem is a quality magazine but this one far exceeds it. For more info on Rock & Gem you can see my review on it at:
http://www.epinions.com/content_31944117892/tk_~CB007.1.10
I will try to do justice to this outstanding magazine. I will again try to detail some of the specific monthly features. One thing you should definitely know about this magazine is that it exudes quality. The photography is exquisite, you would expect this to be in a photography magazine. The articles are very well written and the information is always highly-detailed.
Projects
While this is not the first section of the magazine it is by far the best month to month feature of it. There are several projects in each issue. Each project is meticulously detailed, with step by step directions, a toolbox list and graphics to guide you along the way. They include a skill level required so that you can try projects suited to your skill level or try something that will push you a little. Throughout the course of the year, every aspect is covered in this section. I have seen crocheting silver wire purses to custom facet cuts. If you cant find an occasional project to work on within the hobby in this magazine, you probably arent in the hobby.
Cover Stories
There is as usual, an amazing cover story in each issue. Everything is covered, from something simple like Julys jewelry tools and supplies to incredible articles on specific gemstones or artists. Of course, there is the annual Buyers Guide, which is probably the most exhaustive listing of jewelry tools and supplies anywhere. You will find amazing pieces of hand-crafted jewelry from artists from around the world in LJ. I loved reading about Faberge, an artist most have heard of but few know anything about. Another great feature was when they did the Gem Carvings of Idar Oberstein. Breathtaking is the only word for it.
What do they do for Me?
IF you read the Rock & Gem article, or even just guessed from my Epinions ID, you know my passion is for opals. Lapidary Journal does not let me down either. They have an annual Opal issue. With numerous articles written about all aspects of opals, it is a cant miss issue. If you have ever wanted to know what makes an opal radiate colors the way it does, this is an issue you must check out.
Bead Board/Classifieds
The bead board is an advertising section for a specific segment of the hobby. The beadworking phenomenon has really taken off in the last decade or so and LJ has met the needs of this group by giving them this section. This magazine is one of the few magazines of its quality that I have seen that has a classified section. Unlike most people would expect, it does not detract from the magazines quality but enhances it. By giving the jeweler and hobbyist a consolidated source for all of their needs LJ is performing a service that I have not seen anywhere else. Try looking up Lapidary in your local Yellow pages. Most have one or two entries and that is it.
Conclusion
You guessed it, I am going to give this magazine an enthusiastic two thumbs up! The quality far exceeds expectations and it is a complete reference for those both within the hobby and without. The photography alone is reason enough to buy this magazine and they give you so much more. Would I recommend this to a friend? Definitely! I would recommend it to anyone wanting information on gems, jewelry, beadwork or metal working!
