Gems, Granites, and Gravels Knowing and Using Rocks and Minerals [Paperback]

An intriguing introduction to mineralogy and to related specialities such as petrology.Gems, Granites and Gravels is a valuable introduction to mineralogy and to related specialities such as petrology, crystallography and soil science. Discoveries in these fields are described in a historical context, while the authors explain what minerals and rocks are, how they are distributed around the world, how we depend on them, and where to see the most beautiful specimens of both minerals and rocks.Gems, Granites and Gravels is a valuable introduction to mineralogy and to related specialities such as petrology, crystallography and soil science. Discoveries in these fields are described in a historical context, while the authors explain what minerals and rocks are, how they are distributed around the world, how we depend on them, and where to see the most beautiful specimens of both minerals and rocks.This volume is a valuable introduction to mineralogy and to related specialties such as petrology (the study of rocks), crystallography (the study of crystals), and soil science. Discoveries in these fields are described in a historical context, while the authors explain what minerals and rocks are, how they are distributed around the world, how we depend on them, and where to see the most beautiful specimens of both minerals and rocks.1. The mineral world; 2. Crystal realms; 3. Mineral chemistry; 4. Rocks; 5. Soils, dusts, and muds; 6. Ores and ore minerals; 7. Building materials; 8. Rocks and minerals in diverse environments; Appendices; Index. An exceptional book...A concise, well-written, beautifully illustrated, and stimulating introduction to mineralogy, petrology, and the human use of minerals, it will make equally pleasurable reading for general undergraduates, introductory geology students, and geologists. Choice Dietrich and Skinner have teamed together once again to produce a fascinating book on the importance of minerals to our everyday lives...Because this bookl³½