Concise description of each rock, crystal, and mineral, with symbols providing at-a-glance information on distinctive features, composition, and physical properties.

This compact study guide contains concise descriptions of each rock, crystal, and mineral, with symbols providing at-a-glance information on distinctive features, composition, and physical properties. The durability, beauty, variety, and widespread availability of minerals and rocks make them the ideal subjects for the amateur collector or for the aspiring geologist who wants to find out more about the planet on which we live. Superbly photographed, this book introduces you to the field of geology and rocks—past and present, imitations and synthetics, and the effects of plate tectonics and erosion. Over 200 rocks, crystals, and minerals are presented, enabling you to identify different samples through examination of color, structure, hardness, and place of origin. From the fabulously famous Koh-i-nor diamond to the most mundane of rocks—coal, this compact and comprehensive volume will teach you all you need to know about rocks, crystals, and minerals.

Contains descriptions and photographs of approximately six hundred minerals, rocks, and meteorites, providing information about the history, origin, structure, composition, properties, classification, and location of each specimen.

From glittering gemstones to fascinating minerals and fossils, this incredible reference book is a stunning celebration of the Earth s buried treasures. Specially commissioned photography captures the essence and beauty of over 450 superb specimens, while lively and informative text describes the characteristics of each and its unique and changing relationship to humankind through the ages. Organized by rock classes and chemical groups, each rock, mineral, and fossil entry contains a photograph of the specimen together with lively, wide-ranging text describing its qualities and history of use. In addition, a detailed, at-a-glance reference panel provides key data for identification and classification.

A look at 294 different rocks, minerals, and gemstones. Each entry describes where the material is found, what it is made of, and how it is used.