Great, 13 Oct 2008
Now i know what all my crystals are for. Would be nice if the index was made of mini pictures as I didn't know what my crystals were all called. The book contains info on all the crystals I have ever seen. (Thats lodes)

Most comprehensive guide on crystals out there!, 21 Aug 2008
I am a beginner when it comes to crystals and this book was a fantastic introduction for me, although I don't think it would be out of place in the expert's collection either.

It is very clear and well set out with large colourful photos of each crystal. The crystals are in alphabetical order listing their healing attributes and the position of use. From what I could tell there seems to be a very wide collection of well known and rarer crystals listed.

At the start of the book there is a section on crystal formation and crystal healing. The shapes of the crystals and the effect that it has on their healing properties is written about at the back of the book. These sections really helped me with what to actually do with the crystal now I have got the right one for me.

Overall this is a wonderful purchase for the crystal enthusiast or the crystal beginner!

did not help with my geology gcse, 06 Apr 2008
I used this bible - thinking it to be ultimate unchallengable Truth - but when I failed my geology gcse I suddenly remember that the bible was actually a cobbled together, contradictory and antique bundle of opinions and nonsense.

A worthwhile resource, 06 Apr 2008
All crystals seem to have some sort of hidden healing power, this book helps you select the one that is right for you. A real treat to even read about the obscure cystals, too. Well worth the invetment if you want to learn about these magical stones of life.

Definitive it is!, 21 Jan 2008
A very good book which I use often to check out stones and use her other books eg encyclopedia of crystals and new crystals. Worth it for a reference book.

Great, 13 Oct 2008
Now i know what all my crystals are for. Would be nice if the index was made of mini pictures as I didn't know what my crystals were all called. The book contains info on all the crystals I have ever seen. (Thats lodes)

Most comprehensive guide on crystals out there!, 21 Aug 2008
I am a beginner when it comes to crystals and this book was a fantastic introduction for me, although I don't think it would be out of place in the expert's collection either.

It is very clear and well set out with large colourful photos of each crystal. The crystals are in alphabetical order listing their healing attributes and the position of use. From what I could tell there seems to be a very wide collection of well known and rarer crystals listed.

At the start of the book there is a section on crystal formation and crystal healing. The shapes of the crystals and the effect that it has on their healing properties is written about at the back of the book. These sections really helped me with what to actually do with the crystal now I have got the right one for me.

Overall this is a wonderful purchase for the crystal enthusiast or the crystal beginner!

did not help with my geology gcse, 06 Apr 2008
I used this bible - thinking it to be ultimate unchallengable Truth - but when I failed my geology gcse I suddenly remember that the bible was actually a cobbled together, contradictory and antique bundle of opinions and nonsense.

A worthwhile resource, 06 Apr 2008
All crystals seem to have some sort of hidden healing power, this book helps you select the one that is right for you. A real treat to even read about the obscure cystals, too. Well worth the invetment if you want to learn about these magical stones of life.

Definitive it is!, 21 Jan 2008
A very good book which I use often to check out stones and use her other books eg encyclopedia of crystals and new crystals. Worth it for a reference book.

Great for Identifying Rocks and Minerals!, 13 May 2004
When I took Geology in college, I loved the course. I only had one problem. It was very difficult for me to identify rocks and minerals in the field. If I had had this pocket field guide, the course would have been a snap.

Now, I enjoy taking my children to study outcroppings, and this book will be a great addition to our investigations.

First, the photographs are stunning. In fact, any temptation I might have had to develop my own samples is set aside by having these wonderful images to use.

Second, the information is detailed and thorough. There is a lot about the crystalline structure of each mineral, the hardness, and many tests that are specific to that particular mineral. There is a very good section that describes how to apply the hardness tests (I always had trouble memorizing that area for some reason). There is plenty of good safety information for how to use the various acids that can be employed to identify minerals. Everything is nicely summarized so it is easy to find.

Third, all those subtle distinctions about various kinds of igneous, metamorphic, and sedimentary rocks that used to puzzle me are very clear here. Whew!

Fourth, the book has great directions for locating good spots to examine rocks.

Fifth, you also receive a wonderful description of the equipment you need, and ways to use it safely.

Whether you think you like rocks or not, you should give this book a try. It will open up a very interesting world full of ways to locate and identify interesting rocks and understand the stories they can tell. As a result, you will have immensely more understanding of the world around you.

I also suggest that you read up on plate mechanics as well, so that you understand more about how the landscape is formed before erosion takes over. The combined knowledge of these two areas will greatly add to your understanding and appreciation of evolution.

Get in touch with the physical world around you as foundation knowledge!

A Sound Investment, 24 Nov 2002
This is one of the most thorough and comprehensive books you can buy on the subject of rocks and minerals. It covers over 500 specimens in every detail including their composition, hardness, SG, cleavage and fracture and each description is accompaned by a faithful and sometimes beautiful photograph of the specimen. The example of blue Smithsonite which looks uncannily like a leaping Dolphin is particularly nice.

The whole book is well set out as you would expect from a Dorling Kindersley publication and it is suitable for beginners and experts alike as it is an extremely good reference book.

100% PERFECT, 22 Nov 2002
This book could not be better. I am studying geology AS/A2 level at sixth form and was struggling to get to grips with alot of the rocks and minerals, i then bought this book from amazon, (great delivery) and it has helped me massively, for anyone doing geology at AS/A2 this book is a simple MUST HAVE. Buy this book now, you will regret it if you dont.

a very usefull book for students of every age!, 12 Feb 2002
I am a university student, studying geology in detail for the first time,as part of a geography degree, so this book is very useful, with all the information i required. This would also be interesting for someone needing a less advanced knowledge, or just an general interest. Definately worth its money.

Great, 13 Oct 2008
Now i know what all my crystals are for. Would be nice if the index was made of mini pictures as I didn't know what my crystals were all called. The book contains info on all the crystals I have ever seen. (Thats lodes)

Most comprehensive guide on crystals out there!, 21 Aug 2008
I am a beginner when it comes to crystals and this book was a fantastic introduction for me, although I don't think it would be out of place in the expert's collection either.

It is very clear and well set out with large colourful photos of each crystal. The crystals are in alphabetical order listing their healing attributes and the position of use. From what I could tell there seems to be a very wide collection of well known and rarer crystals listed.

At the start of the book there is a section on crystal formation and crystal healing. The shapes of the crystals and the effect that it has on their healing properties is written about at the back of the book. These sections really helped me with what to actually do with the crystal now I have got the right one for me.

Overall this is a wonderful purchase for the crystal enthusiast or the crystal beginner!

did not help with my geology gcse, 06 Apr 2008
I used this bible - thinking it to be ultimate unchallengable Truth - but when I failed my geology gcse I suddenly remember that the bible was actually a cobbled together, contradictory and antique bundle of opinions and nonsense.

A worthwhile resource, 06 Apr 2008
All crystals seem to have some sort of hidden healing power, this book helps you select the one that is right for you. A real treat to even read about the obscure cystals, too. Well worth the invetment if you want to learn about these magical stones of life.

Definitive it is!, 21 Jan 2008
A very good book which I use often to check out stones and use her other books eg encyclopedia of crystals and new crystals. Worth it for a reference book.

Great for Identifying Rocks and Minerals!, 13 May 2004
When I took Geology in college, I loved the course. I only had one problem. It was very difficult for me to identify rocks and minerals in the field. If I had had this pocket field guide, the course would have been a snap.

Now, I enjoy taking my children to study outcroppings, and this book will be a great addition to our investigations.

First, the photographs are stunning. In fact, any temptation I might have had to develop my own samples is set aside by having these wonderful images to use.

Second, the information is detailed and thorough. There is a lot about the crystalline structure of each mineral, the hardness, and many tests that are specific to that particular mineral. There is a very good section that describes how to apply the hardness tests (I always had trouble memorizing that area for some reason). There is plenty of good safety information for how to use the various acids that can be employed to identify minerals. Everything is nicely summarized so it is easy to find.

Third, all those subtle distinctions about various kinds of igneous, metamorphic, and sedimentary rocks that used to puzzle me are very clear here. Whew!

Fourth, the book has great directions for locating good spots to examine rocks.

Fifth, you also receive a wonderful description of the equipment you need, and ways to use it safely.

Whether you think you like rocks or not, you should give this book a try. It will open up a very interesting world full of ways to locate and identify interesting rocks and understand the stories they can tell. As a result, you will have immensely more understanding of the world around you.

I also suggest that you read up on plate mechanics as well, so that you understand more about how the landscape is formed before erosion takes over. The combined knowledge of these two areas will greatly add to your understanding and appreciation of evolution.

Get in touch with the physical world around you as foundation knowledge!

A Sound Investment, 24 Nov 2002
This is one of the most thorough and comprehensive books you can buy on the subject of rocks and minerals. It covers over 500 specimens in every detail including their composition, hardness, SG, cleavage and fracture and each description is accompaned by a faithful and sometimes beautiful photograph of the specimen. The example of blue Smithsonite which looks uncannily like a leaping Dolphin is particularly nice.

The whole book is well set out as you would expect from a Dorling Kindersley publication and it is suitable for beginners and experts alike as it is an extremely good reference book.

100% PERFECT, 22 Nov 2002
This book could not be better. I am studying geology AS/A2 level at sixth form and was struggling to get to grips with alot of the rocks and minerals, i then bought this book from amazon, (great delivery) and it has helped me massively, for anyone doing geology at AS/A2 this book is a simple MUST HAVE. Buy this book now, you will regret it if you dont.

a very usefull book for students of every age!, 12 Feb 2002
I am a university student, studying geology in detail for the first time,as part of a geography degree, so this book is very useful, with all the information i required. This would also be interesting for someone needing a less advanced knowledge, or just an general interest. Definately worth its money.

What a pleasant surprise!, 26 Feb 2007
As someone going to jewellery making classes, I bought this because I thought it would be a useful gemstone reference book, but found it to be much more geared up to jewellery making, which was a really big surprise! It not only tells you how to buy the stones, but has lots of examples of how they are best used in actual jewellery. The photographs are really good - you can see what these stones are supposed to look like in real life. I'd recommend this for anyone doing jewellery who wants to buy and use gems. I've seen a few other gems books but this is by far the best.

Great, 13 Oct 2008
Now i know what all my crystals are for. Would be nice if the index was made of mini pictures as I didn't know what my crystals were all called. The book contains info on all the crystals I have ever seen. (Thats lodes)

Most comprehensive guide on crystals out there!, 21 Aug 2008
I am a beginner when it comes to crystals and this book was a fantastic introduction for me, although I don't think it would be out of place in the expert's collection either.

It is very clear and well set out with large colourful photos of each crystal. The crystals are in alphabetical order listing their healing attributes and the position of use. From what I could tell there seems to be a very wide collection of well known and rarer crystals listed.

At the start of the book there is a section on crystal formation and crystal healing. The shapes of the crystals and the effect that it has on their healing properties is written about at the back of the book. These sections really helped me with what to actually do with the crystal now I have got the right one for me.

Overall this is a wonderful purchase for the crystal enthusiast or the crystal beginner!

did not help with my geology gcse, 06 Apr 2008
I used this bible - thinking it to be ultimate unchallengable Truth - but when I failed my geology gcse I suddenly remember that the bible was actually a cobbled together, contradictory and antique bundle of opinions and nonsense.

A worthwhile resource, 06 Apr 2008
All crystals seem to have some sort of hidden healing power, this book helps you select the one that is right for you. A real treat to even read about the obscure cystals, too. Well worth the invetment if you want to learn about these magical stones of life.

Definitive it is!, 21 Jan 2008
A very good book which I use often to check out stones and use her other books eg encyclopedia of crystals and new crystals. Worth it for a reference book.

Great for Identifying Rocks and Minerals!, 13 May 2004
When I took Geology in college, I loved the course. I only had one problem. It was very difficult for me to identify rocks and minerals in the field. If I had had this pocket field guide, the course would have been a snap.

Now, I enjoy taking my children to study outcroppings, and this book will be a great addition to our investigations.

First, the photographs are stunning. In fact, any temptation I might have had to develop my own samples is set aside by having these wonderful images to use.

Second, the information is detailed and thorough. There is a lot about the crystalline structure of each mineral, the hardness, and many tests that are specific to that particular mineral. There is a very good section that describes how to apply the hardness tests (I always had trouble memorizing that area for some reason). There is plenty of good safety information for how to use the various acids that can be employed to identify minerals. Everything is nicely summarized so it is easy to find.

Third, all those subtle distinctions about various kinds of igneous, metamorphic, and sedimentary rocks that used to puzzle me are very clear here. Whew!

Fourth, the book has great directions for locating good spots to examine rocks.

Fifth, you also receive a wonderful description of the equipment you need, and ways to use it safely.

Whether you think you like rocks or not, you should give this book a try. It will open up a very interesting world full of ways to locate and identify interesting rocks and understand the stories they can tell. As a result, you will have immensely more understanding of the world around you.

I also suggest that you read up on plate mechanics as well, so that you understand more about how the landscape is formed before erosion takes over. The combined knowledge of these two areas will greatly add to your understanding and appreciation of evolution.

Get in touch with the physical world around you as foundation knowledge!

A Sound Investment, 24 Nov 2002
This is one of the most thorough and comprehensive books you can buy on the subject of rocks and minerals. It covers over 500 specimens in every detail including their composition, hardness, SG, cleavage and fracture and each description is accompaned by a faithful and sometimes beautiful photograph of the specimen. The example of blue Smithsonite which looks uncannily like a leaping Dolphin is particularly nice.

The whole book is well set out as you would expect from a Dorling Kindersley publication and it is suitable for beginners and experts alike as it is an extremely good reference book.

100% PERFECT, 22 Nov 2002
This book could not be better. I am studying geology AS/A2 level at sixth form and was struggling to get to grips with alot of the rocks and minerals, i then bought this book from amazon, (great delivery) and it has helped me massively, for anyone doing geology at AS/A2 this book is a simple MUST HAVE. Buy this book now, you will regret it if you dont.

a very usefull book for students of every age!, 12 Feb 2002
I am a university student, studying geology in detail for the first time,as part of a geography degree, so this book is very useful, with all the information i required. This would also be interesting for someone needing a less advanced knowledge, or just an general interest. Definately worth its money.

What a pleasant surprise!, 26 Feb 2007
As someone going to jewellery making classes, I bought this because I thought it would be a useful gemstone reference book, but found it to be much more geared up to jewellery making, which was a really big surprise! It not only tells you how to buy the stones, but has lots of examples of how they are best used in actual jewellery. The photographs are really good - you can see what these stones are supposed to look like in real life. I'd recommend this for anyone doing jewellery who wants to buy and use gems. I've seen a few other gems books but this is by far the best.

interesting little guide book to jewelry gems, 04 Apr 2007
Although the cover shows a raw gem, this book is oriented towards jewelry gems, and most photos show faceted and polished gems. Most entries are brief (generally one per page, but some more), but each one I've looked at is interesting, with information about where the stone comes from, and technical information about chemical composition and crystal form. There are technical charts and tables at the end. The book is small but gives the impression of being a reduced-size version of a larger book, because the print is small and each entry is fairly contentful. Definitely an interesting & informative browse in a fairly small package.

Clear and informative, as expected from Nat.Hist.Museum, 09 Dec 2001
Gives information on the most common gemsones in an easy to read format. The photographs are excellent.A very good introduction to the subject, suitable for all age ranges.

Great, 13 Oct 2008
Now i know what all my crystals are for. Would be nice if the index was made of mini pictures as I didn't know what my crystals were all called. The book contains info on all the crystals I have ever seen. (Thats lodes)

Most comprehensive guide on crystals out there!, 21 Aug 2008
I am a beginner when it comes to crystals and this book was a fantastic introduction for me, although I don't think it would be out of place in the expert's collection either.

It is very clear and well set out with large colourful photos of each crystal. The crystals are in alphabetical order listing their healing attributes and the position of use. From what I could tell there seems to be a very wide collection of well known and rarer crystals listed.

At the start of the book there is a section on crystal formation and crystal healing. The shapes of the crystals and the effect that it has on their healing properties is written about at the back of the book. These sections really helped me with what to actually do with the crystal now I have got the right one for me.

Overall this is a wonderful purchase for the crystal enthusiast or the crystal beginner!

did not help with my geology gcse, 06 Apr 2008
I used this bible - thinking it to be ultimate unchallengable Truth - but when I failed my geology gcse I suddenly remember that the bible was actually a cobbled together, contradictory and antique bundle of opinions and nonsense.

A worthwhile resource, 06 Apr 2008
All crystals seem to have some sort of hidden healing power, this book helps you select the one that is right for you. A real treat to even read about the obscure cystals, too. Well worth the invetment if you want to learn about these magical stones of life.

Definitive it is!, 21 Jan 2008
A very good book which I use often to check out stones and use her other books eg encyclopedia of crystals and new crystals. Worth it for a reference book.

Great for Identifying Rocks and Minerals!, 13 May 2004
When I took Geology in college, I loved the course. I only had one problem. It was very difficult for me to identify rocks and minerals in the field. If I had had this pocket field guide, the course would have been a snap.

Now, I enjoy taking my children to study outcroppings, and this book will be a great addition to our investigations.

First, the photographs are stunning. In fact, any temptation I might have had to develop my own samples is set aside by having these wonderful images to use.

Second, the information is detailed and thorough. There is a lot about the crystalline structure of each mineral, the hardness, and many tests that are specific to that particular mineral. There is a very good section that describes how to apply the hardness tests (I always had trouble memorizing that area for some reason). There is plenty of good safety information for how to use the various acids that can be employed to identify minerals. Everything is nicely summarized so it is easy to find.

Third, all those subtle distinctions about various kinds of igneous, metamorphic, and sedimentary rocks that used to puzzle me are very clear here. Whew!

Fourth, the book has great directions for locating good spots to examine rocks.

Fifth, you also receive a wonderful description of the equipment you need, and ways to use it safely.

Whether you think you like rocks or not, you should give this book a try. It will open up a very interesting world full of ways to locate and identify interesting rocks and understand the stories they can tell. As a result, you will have immensely more understanding of the world around you.

I also suggest that you read up on plate mechanics as well, so that you understand more about how the landscape is formed before erosion takes over. The combined knowledge of these two areas will greatly add to your understanding and appreciation of evolution.

Get in touch with the physical world around you as foundation knowledge!

A Sound Investment, 24 Nov 2002
This is one of the most thorough and comprehensive books you can buy on the subject of rocks and minerals. It covers over 500 specimens in every detail including their composition, hardness, SG, cleavage and fracture and each description is accompaned by a faithful and sometimes beautiful photograph of the specimen. The example of blue Smithsonite which looks uncannily like a leaping Dolphin is particularly nice.

The whole book is well set out as you would expect from a Dorling Kindersley publication and it is suitable for beginners and experts alike as it is an extremely good reference book.

100% PERFECT, 22 Nov 2002
This book could not be better. I am studying geology AS/A2 level at sixth form and was struggling to get to grips with alot of the rocks and minerals, i then bought this book from amazon, (great delivery) and it has helped me massively, for anyone doing geology at AS/A2 this book is a simple MUST HAVE. Buy this book now, you will regret it if you dont.

a very usefull book for students of every age!, 12 Feb 2002
I am a university student, studying geology in detail for the first time,as part of a geography degree, so this book is very useful, with all the information i required. This would also be interesting for someone needing a less advanced knowledge, or just an general interest. Definately worth its money.

What a pleasant surprise!, 26 Feb 2007
As someone going to jewellery making classes, I bought this because I thought it would be a useful gemstone reference book, but found it to be much more geared up to jewellery making, which was a really big surprise! It not only tells you how to buy the stones, but has lots of examples of how they are best used in actual jewellery. The photographs are really good - you can see what these stones are supposed to look like in real life. I'd recommend this for anyone doing jewellery who wants to buy and use gems. I've seen a few other gems books but this is by far the best.

interesting little guide book to jewelry gems, 04 Apr 2007
Although the cover shows a raw gem, this book is oriented towards jewelry gems, and most photos show faceted and polished gems. Most entries are brief (generally one per page, but some more), but each one I've looked at is interesting, with information about where the stone comes from, and technical information about chemical composition and crystal form. There are technical charts and tables at the end. The book is small but gives the impression of being a reduced-size version of a larger book, because the print is small and each entry is fairly contentful. Definitely an interesting & informative browse in a fairly small package.

Clear and informative, as expected from Nat.Hist.Museum, 09 Dec 2001
Gives information on the most common gemsones in an easy to read format. The photographs are excellent.A very good introduction to the subject, suitable for all age ranges.

Read this above all else this Christmas!, 05 Dec 2005
This fine book is lucidly and beautifully written. Subjects like this can be daunting for the non-scientist, but even these aspects are elegantly explained. And it is by no means all about science - Bernal was, it seems, a swordsman of prodigious appetites, which must surely make him a gift for portrayal in some trashy Hollywood flick. His scientific contributions to the Second World War effort are engagingly described, and his ludicrous politics laid bare.
If you can't read it yourself, give it to that bright but hormonally charged nephew of yours.

Great, 13 Oct 2008
Now i know what all my crystals are for. Would be nice if the index was made of mini pictures as I didn't know what my crystals were all called. The book contains info on all the crystals I have ever seen. (Thats lodes)

Most comprehensive guide on crystals out there!, 21 Aug 2008
I am a beginner when it comes to crystals and this book was a fantastic introduction for me, although I don't think it would be out of place in the expert's collection either.

It is very clear and well set out with large colourful photos of each crystal. The crystals are in alphabetical order listing their healing attributes and the position of use. From what I could tell there seems to be a very wide collection of well known and rarer crystals listed.

At the start of the book there is a section on crystal formation and crystal healing. The shapes of the crystals and the effect that it has on their healing properties is written about at the back of the book. These sections really helped me with what to actually do with the crystal now I have got the right one for me.

Overall this is a wonderful purchase for the crystal enthusiast or the crystal beginner!

did not help with my geology gcse, 06 Apr 2008
I used this bible - thinking it to be ultimate unchallengable Truth - but when I failed my geology gcse I suddenly remember that the bible was actually a cobbled together, contradictory and antique bundle of opinions and nonsense.

A worthwhile resource, 06 Apr 2008
All crystals seem to have some sort of hidden healing power, this book helps you select the one that is right for you. A real treat to even read about the obscure cystals, too. Well worth the invetment if you want to learn about these magical stones of life.

Definitive it is!, 21 Jan 2008
A very good book which I use often to check out stones and use her other books eg encyclopedia of crystals and new crystals. Worth it for a reference book.

Great for Identifying Rocks and Minerals!, 13 May 2004
When I took Geology in college, I loved the course. I only had one problem. It was very difficult for me to identify rocks and minerals in the field. If I had had this pocket field guide, the course would have been a snap.

Now, I enjoy taking my children to study outcroppings, and this book will be a great addition to our investigations.

First, the photographs are stunning. In fact, any temptation I might have had to develop my own samples is set aside by having these wonderful images to use.

Second, the information is detailed and thorough. There is a lot about the crystalline structure of each mineral, the hardness, and many tests that are specific to that particular mineral. There is a very good section that describes how to apply the hardness tests (I always had trouble memorizing that area for some reason). There is plenty of good safety information for how to use the various acids that can be employed to identify minerals. Everything is nicely summarized so it is easy to find.

Third, all those subtle distinctions about various kinds of igneous, metamorphic, and sedimentary rocks that used to puzzle me are very clear here. Whew!

Fourth, the book has great directions for locating good spots to examine rocks.

Fifth, you also receive a wonderful description of the equipment you need, and ways to use it safely.

Whether you think you like rocks or not, you should give this book a try. It will open up a very interesting world full of ways to locate and identify interesting rocks and understand the stories they can tell. As a result, you will have immensely more understanding of the world around you.

I also suggest that you read up on plate mechanics as well, so that you understand more about how the landscape is formed before erosion takes over. The combined knowledge of these two areas will greatly add to your understanding and appreciation of evolution.

Get in touch with the physical world around you as foundation knowledge!

A Sound Investment, 24 Nov 2002
This is one of the most thorough and comprehensive books you can buy on the subject of rocks and minerals. It covers over 500 specimens in every detail including their composition, hardness, SG, cleavage and fracture and each description is accompaned by a faithful and sometimes beautiful photograph of the specimen. The example of blue Smithsonite which looks uncannily like a leaping Dolphin is particularly nice.

The whole book is well set out as you would expect from a Dorling Kindersley publication and it is suitable for beginners and experts alike as it is an extremely good reference book.

100% PERFECT, 22 Nov 2002
This book could not be better. I am studying geology AS/A2 level at sixth form and was struggling to get to grips with alot of the rocks and minerals, i then bought this book from amazon, (great delivery) and it has helped me massively, for anyone doing geology at AS/A2 this book is a simple MUST HAVE. Buy this book now, you will regret it if you dont.

a very usefull book for students of every age!, 12 Feb 2002
I am a university student, studying geology in detail for the first time,as part of a geography degree, so this book is very useful, with all the information i required. This would also be interesting for someone needing a less advanced knowledge, or just an general interest. Definately worth its money.

What a pleasant surprise!, 26 Feb 2007
As someone going to jewellery making classes, I bought this because I thought it would be a useful gemstone reference book, but found it to be much more geared up to jewellery making, which was a really big surprise! It not only tells you how to buy the stones, but has lots of examples of how they are best used in actual jewellery. The photographs are really good - you can see what these stones are supposed to look like in real life. I'd recommend this for anyone doing jewellery who wants to buy and use gems. I've seen a few other gems books but this is by far the best.

interesting little guide book to jewelry gems, 04 Apr 2007
Although the cover shows a raw gem, this book is oriented towards jewelry gems, and most photos show faceted and polished gems. Most entries are brief (generally one per page, but some more), but each one I've looked at is interesting, with information about where the stone comes from, and technical information about chemical composition and crystal form. There are technical charts and tables at the end. The book is small but gives the impression of being a reduced-size version of a larger book, because the print is small and each entry is fairly contentful. Definitely an interesting & informative browse in a fairly small package.

Clear and informative, as expected from Nat.Hist.Museum, 09 Dec 2001
Gives information on the most common gemsones in an easy to read format. The photographs are excellent.A very good introduction to the subject, suitable for all age ranges.

Read this above all else this Christmas!, 05 Dec 2005
This fine book is lucidly and beautifully written. Subjects like this can be daunting for the non-scientist, but even these aspects are elegantly explained. And it is by no means all about science - Bernal was, it seems, a swordsman of prodigious appetites, which must surely make him a gift for portrayal in some trashy Hollywood flick. His scientific contributions to the Second World War effort are engagingly described, and his ludicrous politics laid bare.
If you can't read it yourself, give it to that bright but hormonally charged nephew of yours.

The most colourful and comprehensive book on Crystals, 10 May 2002
You will not find a book so packed with so many photographs of so many crystals and minerals as this one.The photography is beautiful and the obvious love that Melody has for crystals shines through in this book.Crystal lovers should not be without this book.

the most comprehensive guide to minerals to date, 28 Mar 2001
This is the most comprehensive guide to minerals to date, each with a colour photograph and excellent description. A must for people seriously interested in therapeutic use of minerals. A wellcome addition to 'Love is in the Earth'

the most comprehensive guide to minerals to date, 28 Mar 2001
This is the most comprehensive guide to minerals to date, each with a colour photograph and excellent description. A must for people seriously interested in therapeutic use of minerals. A wellcome addition to 'Love is in the Earth'

Great, 13 Oct 2008
Now i know what all my crystals are for. Would be nice if the index was made of mini pictures as I didn't know what my crystals were all called. The book contains info on all the crystals I have ever seen. (Thats lodes)

Most comprehensive guide on crystals out there!, 21 Aug 2008
I am a beginner when it comes to crystals and this book was a fantastic introduction for me, although I don't think it would be out of place in the expert's collection either.

It is very clear and well set out with large colourful photos of each crystal. The crystals are in alphabetical order listing their healing attributes and the position of use. From what I could tell there seems to be a very wide collection of well known and rarer crystals listed.

At the start of the book there is a section on crystal formation and crystal healing. The shapes of the crystals and the effect that it has on their healing properties is written about at the back of the book. These sections really helped me with what to actually do with the crystal now I have got the right one for me.

Overall this is a wonderful purchase for the crystal enthusiast or the crystal beginner!

did not help with my geology gcse, 06 Apr 2008
I used this bible - thinking it to be ultimate unchallengable Truth - but when I failed my geology gcse I suddenly remember that the bible was actually a cobbled together, contradictory and antique bundle of opinions and nonsense.

A worthwhile resource, 06 Apr 2008
All crystals seem to have some sort of hidden healing power, this book helps you select the one that is right for you. A real treat to even read about the obscure cystals, too. Well worth the invetment if you want to learn about these magical stones of life.

Definitive it is!, 21 Jan 2008
A very good book which I use often to check out stones and use her other books eg encyclopedia of crystals and new crystals. Worth it for a reference book.

Great for Identifying Rocks and Minerals!, 13 May 2004
When I took Geology in college, I loved the course. I only had one problem. It was very difficult for me to identify rocks and minerals in the field. If I had had this pocket field guide, the course would have been a snap.

Now, I enjoy taking my children to study outcroppings, and this book will be a great addition to our investigations.

First, the photographs are stunning. In fact, any temptation I might have had to develop my own samples is set aside by having these wonderful images to use.

Second, the information is detailed and thorough. There is a lot about the crystalline structure of each mineral, the hardness, and many tests that are specific to that particular mineral. There is a very good section that describes how to apply the hardness tests (I always had trouble memorizing that area for some reason). There is plenty of good safety information for how to use the various acids that can be employed to identify minerals. Everything is nicely summarized so it is easy to find.

Third, all those subtle distinctions about various kinds of igneous, metamorphic, and sedimentary rocks that used to puzzle me are very clear here. Whew!

Fourth, the book has great directions for locating good spots to examine rocks.

Fifth, you also receive a wonderful description of the equipment you need, and ways to use it safely.

Whether you think you like rocks or not, you should give this book a try. It will open up a very interesting world full of ways to locate and identify interesting rocks and understand the stories they can tell. As a result, you will have immensely more understanding of the world around you.

I also suggest that you read up on plate mechanics as well, so that you understand more about how the landscape is formed before erosion takes over. The combined knowledge of these two areas will greatly add to your understanding and appreciation of evolution.

Get in touch with the physical world around you as foundation knowledge!

A Sound Investment, 24 Nov 2002
This is one of the most thorough and comprehensive books you can buy on the subject of rocks and minerals. It covers over 500 specimens in every detail including their composition, hardness, SG, cleavage and fracture and each description is accompaned by a faithful and sometimes beautiful photograph of the specimen. The example of blue Smithsonite which looks uncannily like a leaping Dolphin is particularly nice.

The whole book is well set out as you would expect from a Dorling Kindersley publication and it is suitable for beginners and experts alike as it is an extremely good reference book.

100% PERFECT, 22 Nov 2002
This book could not be better. I am studying geology AS/A2 level at sixth form and was struggling to get to grips with alot of the rocks and minerals, i then bought this book from amazon, (great delivery) and it has helped me massively, for anyone doing geology at AS/A2 this book is a simple MUST HAVE. Buy this book now, you will regret it if you dont.

a very usefull book for students of every age!, 12 Feb 2002
I am a university student, studying geology in detail for the first time,as part of a geography degree, so this book is very useful, with all the information i required. This would also be interesting for someone needing a less advanced knowledge, or just an general interest. Definately worth its money.

What a pleasant surprise!, 26 Feb 2007
As someone going to jewellery making classes, I bought this because I thought it would be a useful gemstone reference book, but found it to be much more geared up to jewellery making, which was a really big surprise! It not only tells you how to buy the stones, but has lots of examples of how they are best used in actual jewellery. The photographs are really good - you can see what these stones are supposed to look like in real life. I'd recommend this for anyone doing jewellery who wants to buy and use gems. I've seen a few other gems books but this is by far the best.

interesting little guide book to jewelry gems, 04 Apr 2007
Although the cover shows a raw gem, this book is oriented towards jewelry gems, and most photos show faceted and polished gems. Most entries are brief (generally one per page, but some more), but each one I've looked at is interesting, with information about where the stone comes from, and technical information about chemical composition and crystal form. There are technical charts and tables at the end. The book is small but gives the impression of being a reduced-size version of a larger book, because the print is small and each entry is fairly contentful. Definitely an interesting & informative browse in a fairly small package.

Clear and informative, as expected from Nat.Hist.Museum, 09 Dec 2001
Gives information on the most common gemsones in an easy to read format. The photographs are excellent.A very good introduction to the subject, suitable for all age ranges.

Read this above all else this Christmas!, 05 Dec 2005
This fine book is lucidly and beautifully written. Subjects like this can be daunting for the non-scientist, but even these aspects are elegantly explained. And it is by no means all about science - Bernal was, it seems, a swordsman of prodigious appetites, which must surely make him a gift for portrayal in some trashy Hollywood flick. His scientific contributions to the Second World War effort are engagingly described, and his ludicrous politics laid bare.
If you can't read it yourself, give it to that bright but hormonally charged nephew of yours.

The most colourful and comprehensive book on Crystals, 10 May 2002
You will not find a book so packed with so many photographs of so many crystals and minerals as this one.The photography is beautiful and the obvious love that Melody has for crystals shines through in this book.Crystal lovers should not be without this book.

the most comprehensive guide to minerals to date, 28 Mar 2001
This is the most comprehensive guide to minerals to date, each with a colour photograph and excellent description. A must for people seriously interested in therapeutic use of minerals. A wellcome addition to 'Love is in the Earth'

the most comprehensive guide to minerals to date, 28 Mar 2001
This is the most comprehensive guide to minerals to date, each with a colour photograph and excellent description. A must for people seriously interested in therapeutic use of minerals. A wellcome addition to 'Love is in the Earth'

For application and first-hand in crystallography, 26 May 2001
This book is quite good. Using the good English and can be understandable easily. I've read only once but it made me quite interested in crystallogrphy. It's suitable for both starter and well-studied in crystallography and want to know some basic clearly.

Great, 13 Oct 2008
Now i know what all my crystals are for. Would be nice if the index was made of mini pictures as I didn't know what my crystals were all called. The book contains info on all the crystals I have ever seen. (Thats lodes)

Most comprehensive guide on crystals out there!, 21 Aug 2008
I am a beginner when it comes to crystals and this book was a fantastic introduction for me, although I don't think it would be out of place in the expert's collection either.

It is very clear and well set out with large colourful photos of each crystal. The crystals are in alphabetical order listing their healing attributes and the position of use. From what I could tell there seems to be a very wide collection of well known and rarer crystals listed.

At the start of the book there is a section on crystal formation and crystal healing. The shapes of the crystals and the effect that it has on their healing properties is written about at the back of the book. These sections really helped me with what to actually do with the crystal now I have got the right one for me.

Overall this is a wonderful purchase for the crystal enthusiast or the crystal beginner!

did not help with my geology gcse, 06 Apr 2008
I used this bible - thinking it to be ultimate unchallengable Truth - but when I failed my geology gcse I suddenly remember that the bible was actually a cobbled together, contradictory and antique bundle of opinions and nonsense.

A worthwhile resource, 06 Apr 2008
All crystals seem to have some sort of hidden healing power, this book helps you select the one that is right for you. A real treat to even read about the obscure cystals, too. Well worth the invetment if you want to learn about these magical stones of life.

Definitive it is!, 21 Jan 2008
A very good book which I use often to check out stones and use her other books eg encyclopedia of crystals and new crystals. Worth it for a reference book.

Great for Identifying Rocks and Minerals!, 13 May 2004
When I took Geology in college, I loved the course. I only had one problem. It was very difficult for me to identify rocks and minerals in the field. If I had had this pocket field guide, the course would have been a snap.

Now, I enjoy taking my children to study outcroppings, and this book will be a great addition to our investigations.

First, the photographs are stunning. In fact, any temptation I might have had to develop my own samples is set aside by having these wonderful images to use.

Second, the information is detailed and thorough. There is a lot about the crystalline structure of each mineral, the hardness, and many tests that are specific to that particular mineral. There is a very good section that describes how to apply the hardness tests (I always had trouble memorizing that area for some reason). There is plenty of good safety information for how to use the various acids that can be employed to identify minerals. Everything is nicely summarized so it is easy to find.

Third, all those subtle distinctions about various kinds of igneous, metamorphic, and sedimentary rocks that used to puzzle me are very clear here. Whew!

Fourth, the book has great directions for locating good spots to examine rocks.

Fifth, you also receive a wonderful description of the equipment you need, and ways to use it safely.

Whether you think you like rocks or not, you should give this book a try. It will open up a very interesting world full of ways to locate and identify interesting rocks and understand the stories they can tell. As a result, you will have immensely more understanding of the world around you.

I also suggest that you read up on plate mechanics as well, so that you understand more about how the landscape is formed before erosion takes over. The combined knowledge of these two areas will greatly add to your understanding and appreciation of evolution.

Get in touch with the physical world around you as foundation knowledge!

A Sound Investment, 24 Nov 2002
This is one of the most thorough and comprehensive books you can buy on the subject of rocks and minerals. It covers over 500 specimens in every detail including their composition, hardness, SG, cleavage and fracture and each description is accompaned by a faithful and sometimes beautiful photograph of the specimen. The example of blue Smithsonite which looks uncannily like a leaping Dolphin is particularly nice.

The whole book is well set out as you would expect from a Dorling Kindersley publication and it is suitable for beginners and experts alike as it is an extremely good reference book.

100% PERFECT, 22 Nov 2002
This book could not be better. I am studying geology AS/A2 level at sixth form and was struggling to get to grips with alot of the rocks and minerals, i then bought this book from amazon, (great delivery) and it has helped me massively, for anyone doing geology at AS/A2 this book is a simple MUST HAVE. Buy this book now, you will regret it if you dont.

a very usefull book for students of every age!, 12 Feb 2002
I am a university student, studying geology in detail for the first time,as part of a geography degree, so this book is very useful, with all the information i required. This would also be interesting for someone needing a less advanced knowledge, or just an general interest. Definately worth its money.

What a pleasant surprise!, 26 Feb 2007
As someone going to jewellery making classes, I bought this because I thought it would be a useful gemstone reference book, but found it to be much more geared up to jewellery making, which was a really big surprise! It not only tells you how to buy the stones, but has lots of examples of how they are best used in actual jewellery. The photographs are really good - you can see what these stones are supposed to look like in real life. I'd recommend this for anyone doing jewellery who wants to buy and use gems. I've seen a few other gems books but this is by far the best.

interesting little guide book to jewelry gems, 04 Apr 2007
Although the cover shows a raw gem, this book is oriented towards jewelry gems, and most photos show faceted and polished gems. Most entries are brief (generally one per page, but some more), but each one I've looked at is interesting, with information about where the stone comes from, and technical information about chemical composition and crystal form. There are technical charts and tables at the end. The book is small but gives the impression of being a reduced-size version of a larger book, because the print is small and each entry is fairly contentful. Definitely an interesting & informative browse in a fairly small package.

Clear and informative, as expected from Nat.Hist.Museum, 09 Dec 2001
Gives information on the most common gemsones in an easy to read format. The photographs are excellent.A very good introduction to the subject, suitable for all age ranges.

Read this above all else this Christmas!, 05 Dec 2005
This fine book is lucidly and beautifully written. Subjects like this can be daunting for the non-scientist, but even these aspects are elegantly explained. And it is by no means all about science - Bernal was, it seems, a swordsman of prodigious appetites, which must surely make him a gift for portrayal in some trashy Hollywood flick. His scientific contributions to the Second World War effort are engagingly described, and his ludicrous politics laid bare.
If you can't read it yourself, give it to that bright but hormonally charged nephew of yours.

The most colourful and comprehensive book on Crystals, 10 May 2002
You will not find a book so packed with so many photographs of so many crystals and minerals as this one.The photography is beautiful and the obvious love that Melody has for crystals shines through in this book.Crystal lovers should not be without this book.

the most comprehensive guide to minerals to date, 28 Mar 2001
This is the most comprehensive guide to minerals to date, each with a colour photograph and excellent description. A must for people seriously interested in therapeutic use of minerals. A wellcome addition to 'Love is in the Earth'

the most comprehensive guide to minerals to date, 28 Mar 2001
This is the most comprehensive guide to minerals to date, each with a colour photograph and excellent description. A must for people seriously interested in therapeutic use of minerals. A wellcome addition to 'Love is in the Earth'

For application and first-hand in crystallography, 26 May 2001
This book is quite good. Using the good English and can be understandable easily. I've read only once but it made me quite interested in crystallogrphy. It's suitable for both starter and well-studied in crystallography and want to know some basic clearly.

Crystal clear, 08 Sep 2007
A wonderful book. I am a professional chemist with an interest in geology but not working in this field. I learned much more about crystal structures and crystal habits that from my inorganic and structure chemistry studies. Very well written, very clear figures and diagrams. I congratulate the author to a very good job. Too bad the world isn't yet ready for it to become a top ten best seller.

Great, 13 Oct 2008
Now i know what all my crystals are for. Would be nice if the index was made of mini pictures as I didn't know what my crystals were all called. The book contains info on all the crystals I have ever seen. (Thats lodes)

Most comprehensive guide on crystals out there!, 21 Aug 2008
I am a beginner when it comes to crystals and this book was a fantastic introduction for me, although I don't think it would be out of place in the expert's collection either.

It is very clear and well set out with large colourful photos of each crystal. The crystals are in alphabetical order listing their healing attributes and the position of use. From what I could tell there seems to be a very wide collection of well known and rarer crystals listed.

At the start of the book there is a section on crystal formation and crystal healing. The shapes of the crystals and the effect that it has on their healing properties is written about at the back of the book. These sections really helped me with what to actually do with the crystal now I have got the right one for me.

Overall this is a wonderful purchase for the crystal enthusiast or the crystal beginner!

did not help with my geology gcse, 06 Apr 2008
I used this bible - thinking it to be ultimate unchallengable Truth - but when I failed my geology gcse I suddenly remember that the bible was actually a cobbled together, contradictory and antique bundle of opinions and nonsense.

A worthwhile resource, 06 Apr 2008
All crystals seem to have some sort of hidden healing power, this book helps you select the one that is right for you. A real treat to even read about the obscure cystals, too. Well worth the invetment if you want to learn about these magical stones of life.

Definitive it is!, 21 Jan 2008
A very good book which I use often to check out stones and use her other books eg encyclopedia of crystals and new crystals. Worth it for a reference book.

Great for Identifying Rocks and Minerals!, 13 May 2004
When I took Geology in college, I loved the course. I only had one problem. It was very difficult for me to identify rocks and minerals in the field. If I had had this pocket field guide, the course would have been a snap.

Now, I enjoy taking my children to study outcroppings, and this book will be a great addition to our investigations.

First, the photographs are stunning. In fact, any temptation I might have had to develop my own samples is set aside by having these wonderful images to use.

Second, the information is detailed and thorough. There is a lot about the crystalline structure of each mineral, the hardness, and many tests that are specific to that particular mineral. There is a very good section that describes how to apply the hardness tests (I always had trouble memorizing that area for some reason). There is plenty of good safety information for how to use the various acids that can be employed to identify minerals. Everything is nicely summarized so it is easy to find.

Third, all those subtle distinctions about various kinds of igneous, metamorphic, and sedimentary rocks that used to puzzle me are very clear here. Whew!

Fourth, the book has great directions for locating good spots to examine rocks.

Fifth, you also receive a wonderful description of the equipment you need, and ways to use it safely.

Whether you think you like rocks or not, you should give this book a try. It will open up a very interesting world full of ways to locate and identify interesting rocks and understand the stories they can tell. As a result, you will have immensely more understanding of the world around you.

I also suggest that you read up on plate mechanics as well, so that you understand more about how the landscape is formed before erosion takes over. The combined knowledge of these two areas will greatly add to your understanding and appreciation of evolution.

Get in touch with the physical world around you as foundation knowledge!

A Sound Investment, 24 Nov 2002
This is one of the most thorough and comprehensive books you can buy on the subject of rocks and minerals. It covers over 500 specimens in every detail including their composition, hardness, SG, cleavage and fracture and each description is accompaned by a faithful and sometimes beautiful photograph of the specimen. The example of blue Smithsonite which looks uncannily like a leaping Dolphin is particularly nice.

The whole book is well set out as you would expect from a Dorling Kindersley publication and it is suitable for beginners and experts alike as it is an extremely good reference book.

100% PERFECT, 22 Nov 2002
This book could not be better. I am studying geology AS/A2 level at sixth form and was struggling to get to grips with alot of the rocks and minerals, i then bought this book from amazon, (great delivery) and it has helped me massively, for anyone doing geology at AS/A2 this book is a simple MUST HAVE. Buy this book now, you will regret it if you dont.

a very usefull book for students of every age!, 12 Feb 2002
I am a university student, studying geology in detail for the first time,as part of a geography degree, so this book is very useful, with all the information i required. This would also be interesting for someone needing a less advanced knowledge, or just an general interest. Definately worth its money.

What a pleasant surprise!, 26 Feb 2007
As someone going to jewellery making classes, I bought this because I thought it would be a useful gemstone reference book, but found it to be much more geared up to jewellery making, which was a really big surprise! It not only tells you how to buy the stones, but has lots of examples of how they are best used in actual jewellery. The photographs are really good - you can see what these stones are supposed to look like in real life. I'd recommend this for anyone doing jewellery who wants to buy and use gems. I've seen a few other gems books but this is by far the best.

interesting little guide book to jewelry gems, 04 Apr 2007
Although the cover shows a raw gem, this book is oriented towards jewelry gems, and most photos show faceted and polished gems. Most entries are brief (generally one per page, but some more), but each one I've looked at is interesting, with information about where the stone comes from, and technical information about chemical composition and crystal form. There are technical charts and tables at the end. The book is small but gives the impression of being a reduced-size version of a larger book, because the print is small and each entry is fairly contentful. Definitely an interesting & informative browse in a fairly small package.

Clear and informative, as expected from Nat.Hist.Museum, 09 Dec 2001
Gives information on the most common gemsones in an easy to read format. The photographs are excellent.A very good introduction to the subject, suitable for all age ranges.

Read this above all else this Christmas!, 05 Dec 2005
This fine book is lucidly and beautifully written. Subjects like this can be daunting for the non-scientist, but even these aspects are elegantly explained. And it is by no means all about science - Bernal was, it seems, a swordsman of prodigious appetites, which must surely make him a gift for portrayal in some trashy Hollywood flick. His scientific contributions to the Second World War effort are engagingly described, and his ludicrous politics laid bare.
If you can't read it yourself, give it to that bright but hormonally charged nephew of yours.

The most colourful and comprehensive book on Crystals, 10 May 2002
You will not find a book so packed with so many photographs of so many crystals and minerals as this one.The photography is beautiful and the obvious love that Melody has for crystals shines through in this book.Crystal lovers should not be without this book.

the most comprehensive guide to minerals to date, 28 Mar 2001
This is the most comprehensive guide to minerals to date, each with a colour photograph and excellent description. A must for people seriously interested in therapeutic use of minerals. A wellcome addition to 'Love is in the Earth'

the most comprehensive guide to minerals to date, 28 Mar 2001
This is the most comprehensive guide to minerals to date, each with a colour photograph and excellent description. A must for people seriously interested in therapeutic use of minerals. A wellcome addition to 'Love is in the Earth'

For application and first-hand in crystallography, 26 May 2001
This book is quite good. Using the good English and can be understandable easily. I've read only once but it made me quite interested in crystallogrphy. It's suitable for both starter and well-studied in crystallography and want to know some basic clearly.

Crystal clear, 08 Sep 2007
A wonderful book. I am a professional chemist with an interest in geology but not working in this field. I learned much more about crystal structures and crystal habits that from my inorganic and structure chemistry studies. Very well written, very clear figures and diagrams. I congratulate the author to a very good job. Too bad the world isn't yet ready for it to become a top ten best seller.

Excellent, informative and very well written book, 09 Sep 1999
This book focus on Mineralogy with a perspective that is refreshing, bridging an important gap between all those people that, one way or the other, deal with minerals, and I mean geologists, geophysicists, geochemists, and of course mineralogists. The book presents very up-to-date material on subjects that normally are absent from traditional books on Mineralogy: spectroscopic methods, principles of electron microscopy, defects in minerals, thermodynamics and kinetics, phase transitions, just to mention the most relevant ones. The way these subjects are treated is really accessible, even for the less mathematical and physical inclined reader and a number of features are explained in an extraordinary intuitive way. This book tries to get people look to minerals as dynamic things and not merely passive characters of a play where tectonic, metamorphic, sedimentary, and igneous processes are what really count. In traditional courses on geology, mineralogy is, most of the times, a systematic and boring stuff, catching attention only when the beauty of crystals are shown. This book shows how this can be very different, although there is not many people who really care about it.