Ahmad ibn Yusuf Al Tifaschi was born in 1184 and wrote this authoritative text in 1253. Twentieth century gemologists are astounded by the observations that he made and his contribution to gemology, whilst recognised in the Arab-speaking world, is not so well-known in the West.

Samar Najm Abul Huda's translation of Ahmad ibn Yusuf al Tifaschi's study of gems. Born in 1184, Al Tifaschi first learned about gems from his father, and augmented his knowledge through readings of Aristotle, Theophrastus, and Pliny, as well as through extensive travels to mines and trading centers. In 1253, he wrote what later became known as the most 'methodical and complete' work on precious stones. Gemologists of today are still astounded by the advanced observations that Al Tifaschi made in this work.