Highlights 40 masterworks of illustrated scientific art from the Rare Book Collection of the American Museum of Natural History.

Without our oceans, which cover almost 72 percent of our planet, Earth simply could not exist--or humanity survive. Join author Melanie Stiassny from the American Museum of Natural History on an epic, oceanic journey. These fascinating essays, taken from the museum's Rare Book Collections, expand on the science behind the early histories that shaped the study of oceanography. They take close-up looks at coral, jellyfish, sea worms, whales, sharks, squid, and more, and provide accounts from legendary explorers and early naturalists. This gorgeously illustrated volume, which includes 40 frameable prints, will appeal to every seafaring and natural-science enthusiast. The Natural Histories series introduces today's readers to lost, fully illustrated scientific tomes from the American Museum of Natural History Library's Rare Book Collections. The museum's top experts provide interesting facts and commentary that enrich the original material and appeal to nature, science, and art lovers.

Includes subject section, name section, and 1968-1970, technical reports.

The paragon of physical perfection and a sparkling example of Earth's forces at work, the diamond has fascinated all realms of society, from Russian tsars and Hollywood stars to scientists and brides-to-be. The Nature of Diamonds is an authoritative and richly illustrated look at nature's most coveted gem. Leading geologists, gemologists, physicists, and cultural observers cover every facet of the stone, from its formation in the depths of the Earth and its explosive ascent to the surface, to its economic, regal, social, and technological roles. The book takes the reader to cutting-edge research on the frontiers of diamond exploration and exploitation, from Arctic wastes to laboratories that create industrial diamonds for cutting tools that slice through rock. Charting the history of mining from its origins in India and Brazil, the book follows the diamond rush in South Africa to today's high-tech enterprises. It provides a glimpse into the economics of the diamond trade, and an overview of diamond cutting, from the rough uncut stones in early Indian and Roman jewelry to the multifaceted stones we see today. The cultural history of the diamond as both a revered and a social symbol is explored, from its early history as the exclusive property of royalty to today's brilliant-laden jewelry as an emblem of wealth and status. The engaging text is complemented by more than 200 lavish illustrations which span fine art, earth science, and cultural studies and capture the brilliance and beauty of this extraordinary gem.