COLLECTING ROCKS, GEMS AND MINERALS: IDENTIFICATION, VALUES, AND LAPIDARY USES, 3RD ED.

While the old adage may be “don’t judge a book by its cover,” the look and feel of this book’s cover are good indicators of the wealth and depth of information inside.

The flexibound binding impresses me because it’s a book that is durable and helpful in the field, and it’s equally impressive sitting on the coffee table or bookshelf of a house. It’s often referred to as a guide for beginners, but more than a few experienced rockhounds referenced this book as one of their favorite guides. I appreciate that it’s arranged by category and color of stone. I also appreciate the details the author provides about tools and equipment used in the field, shop, and in displaying specimens. In fact, it was in the pages of this book that I was introduced to dop pots, dop wax, and sticks.

This book illustrates the beauty and fascinating science of rocks, gems, and minerals.

Publisher: Krause Publications, F+W Media

Retail List Price: $19.99

Format: Flexibound

Pages: 352