
Rocks & Minerals: The Definitive Visual Guide is an exceptional resource for anyone interested in exploring the fascinating world of geology. This comprehensive book provides a rich and visually stunning overview of rocks and minerals, combining informative text with captivating images. Whether you are a beginner or an experienced enthusiast, you will find this guide to be a valuable tool for identifying, understanding, and appreciating various geological formations.
The book covers a wide range of topics, including the formation, classification, and properties of rocks and minerals. Each section is meticulously organized, making it easy to navigate and locate specific information. The detailed descriptions and clear illustrations help readers identify common minerals and rocks, while also highlighting their unique characteristics and uses. From igneous and sedimentary rocks to precious gemstones and metallic ores, this guide showcases the incredible diversity found in the Earth's crust.
What sets Rocks & Minerals: The Definitive Visual Guide apart is its emphasis on visual storytelling. The stunning photographs and illustrations not only capture the intricate details of different specimens, but also provide a glimpse into the geological processes that have shaped our planet over millions of years. It is truly a feast for the eyes, inviting readers to embark on a visual journey through the wonders of the natural world.
Additionally, the book offers valuable insights into the cultural and historical significance of rocks and minerals. It delves into their use in architecture, art, and jewelry throughout human history, showcasing how these geological wonders have influenced and shaped various civilizations. This broader context adds depth and a sense of wonder to the subject matter, making it more engaging and relatable for readers of all backgrounds.
In my opinion, Rocks & Minerals: The Definitive Visual Guide is an indispensable resource for both casual enthusiasts and serious geology students alike. Its accessible yet informative approach, combined with its remarkable visuals, makes learning about rocks and minerals a delightfully immersive experience. So whether you're a rock collector, a nature lover, or simply someone curious about the Earth's geological wonders, this guide is sure to provide you with a wealth of knowledge and a renewed appreciation for the beauty of our planet.

Table Of Contents
- ORIGINS
- THE FORMATION OF THE UNIVERSE
- THE FORMATION OF EARTH
- EARTH'S CRUST
- COLLECTING ROCKS AND MINERALS
- ROCKS
- ROCK FORMATION
- TYPES OF ROCK
- IGNEOUS ROCKS
- SEDIMENTARY ROCKS
- METAMORPHIC ROCKS
- MINERALS
- WHAT IS A MINERAL?
- IDENTIFYING MINERALS
- MINERAL ASSOCIATIONS
- WHAT IS A CRYSTAL?
- CRYSTAL SYSTEMS
- CRYSTAL HABITS
- WHAT IS A GEMSTONE?
- GEM MINING
- GEM CUTTING
- NATIVE ELEMENTS
- SULFIDES
- SULFOSALTS
- OXIDES
- HYDROXIDES
- HALIDES
- CARBONATES
- PHOSPHATES, ARSENATES, AND VA...
- BORATES AND NITRATES
- SULFATES, CHROMATES, TUNGSTAT...
- SILICATES
- ORGANIC GEMS
- FOSSILS
- HOW FOSSILS ARE FORMED
- THE FOSSIL RECORD
- PLANTS
- INVERTEBRATES
- VERTEBRATES
- Glossary
Prompts
- The EPUB format you can get from Internet maybe can't be opened correctly (gets stuck or shows a disordered layout) (tested with SumatraPDF, Calibre, Neat Reader, Icecream Ebook Reader, Adobe Digital Editions, Moon+ Reader, and FBReader). The solution is: run Calibre viewer -> open this book -> right click on the right panel -> Preferences -> Page Layout -> select "Flow mode" -> click 'OK'. Besides, you may also need to choose an appropriate font size.
Download URLs
Format | Download | Size |
NEW EDITION | ||
EPUB | ![]() |
208 MB |