Rocks And Minerals

Description

This is a definitive compact guide to rocks, minerals, crystals and gemstones - for every rockhound and budding gemologist! From primeval origins to their astonishing modern-day uses and appeal, this is the ultimate portrait of Earth's buried treasures - rocks, minerals, crystals and gems - produced in association with the Smithsonian Institution. Learn how to identify more than 450 rock and mineral specimens through stunning photographs and detailed characteristics. Discover more about your finds through folklore and historical artifacts, and find out the fascinating stories behind the world's natural treasures; from the Hope diamond to the Great Mogul emerald. Plus, pick up practical advice on rock and mineral collecting, including how to cut, polish and display your finds.

Reviews

As one has come to expect of a Dorling Kindersley publication, it's peppered with beautiful, glossy pictures - the rock, mineral, gem and fossil photographs are of such good quality you feel you could lift them off the page - and is laid out for easy reference. Geographical

Author description

Over a 40-year-career Ron Bonowitz has been a geologist, prospector, miner and gem cutter, in addition to working as a pilot and flying instructor. Still a collector, cutter and dealer in gems and minerals, he has written extensively on ancient history and mythology. Ron resides in Petersfield.