A handbook that explains rock, mineral and gem identification along with a huge reference section with hundreds of photos. Rock and gem smithsonian guidebook by ronald louis bonewitz. A brief history of how gemstones and precious metals silver, gold and platinum have been shaped, worn and coveted. In addition to resources on each of several hundred individual rock and gem types, the book contains a compelling history of how rocks are formed, starting with the big bang up to the present day. Perfect for budding geologists ages 69, this colorful reference book delves into more than 100 different types of rocks, minerals, gemstones, crystals, and fossils, explaining what each one is, how its formed, and how its been utilized throughout history. Learn about rocks, minerals, crystals, and gems that were forged by powerful events in prehistory. Explore what specimens look like and their present uses. Gr 14martins latest title is packed full of information about rocks, minerals, and gems there is nothing little about this book.
Written for the geoscientist, prospector and rockhound. There are good pictures and the explanations of the chemical formation and crystal shapes that are easy to understand. Claudia martin for those with curious minds starting to take note of the world around them, the basic materials from which our planet is made raise a. Whether youre a jeweler, gemologist, lapidary artist, gem hunter, or you simply enjoy seeing and buying beautiful gemstone jewelry, we have a book about gems for you. Follow in the footsteps of successful gem and gold hunters and search the hills for rough diamonds, colored gemstones, lapidary minerals, precious metals and interesting minerals and rocks. It covers different types, such as marble, chalk, clay, rubies, and sapphires.
Learn about rocks, minerals, crystals, and gems that were forged by powerful events in. For thousands of years, human beings have been captivated by the natural beauty of gemstones. The definitive guide to rocks, minerals, gemstones. My little book of rocks, minerals, and gems book, 2017. The book can easily be taken out into the field as a portable guide to help you identify your rocks, gems and minerals. Crystals, gems, and precious stones, healing, books. From glittering gemstones to fascinating minerals and fossils, rock and gem is. Welcome to the gemstone section, a free informational reference guide to gemstones, jewelry, and precious metals. One of the best things about this book, and why it makes it onto the best rockhounding books for 2017 list, is because it describes all of the rocks in gems in many different variations, colors and crystal forms. The first section of the book is an extended introduction to what makes a gemstone different than say, a mineral, although they might be composed of the same chemicals. Take a shine to the ultimate guide to crystals and gems, part of the bestselling eyewitness series of reference books.