Your compact guide to more than 450 rocks, crystals, gemstones, and fossils Explore the treasures of the Earth-sparkling crystals, vibrant gemstones, and age-old fossils-with this illustrated guide that's sure to captivate every rockhound and budding gemmologist. From primeval origins to their astonishing modern-day uses and appeal, this is the ultimate portrait of Earth's geological riches. Also included is a focused look at other precious materials often prized for their beauty, such as amber, coral, ivory, and fossils. Learn how to identify more than 450 rock and gem specimens through stunning photographs and detailed characteristics. Discover more about rocks and gems through folklore and historical artifacts and find out the fascinating stories behind some of the amazing natural treasures, including the Hope Diamond and the Great Mogul emerald. It also contains information on polishing and displaying your finds to further equip you with all the knowledge needed to delve into the arena of rock and mineral collecting. Rocks & Gems was produced in association with the Smithsonian in Washington, D.C., the world's largest museum complex, ensuring the guide's accuracy.
Author
Dorling Kindersley (DK) is a British multinational publishing company specializing in illustrated reference books for adults and children in 62 languages. It is part of Penguin Random House, a consumer publishing company jointly owned by Bertelsmann SE & Co. KGaA and Pearson PLC. Bertelsmann owns 53% of the company and Pearson owns 47%. Established in 1974, DK publishes a range of titles in genres including travel (including Eyewitness Travel Guides), arts and crafts, business, history, cooking, gaming, gardening, health and fitness, natural history, parenting, science and reference. They also publish books for children, toddlers and babies, covering such topics as history, the human body, animals and activities, as well as licensed properties such as LEGO, Disney and DeLiSo, licensor of the toy Sophie la Girafe. DK has offices in New York, London, Munich, New Delhi, Toronto and Melbourne. Source: Wikipedia.
