From glittering gemstones to fascinating minerals and fossils, this incredible reference book is a stunning celebration of the Earth's buried treasures. Innovative, 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.
