Get this incomparable field guide to 90 of Minnesotaís rocks and minerals. Full-color photos and the details you need for identifying and collecting make this a perfect book to bring with you on your explorations. Give it as a gift, and keep one too!

Gem is a dazzling visual guide to precious stones, organic gems, and precious metals that weaves together beautiful, specially commissioned images and science, natural history, mythology, and true stories of adventure and discovery. From diamonds to sapphires to limestone, this comprehensive guide profiles all the key gemstones and other precious materials, and stunning images show the jewels in their different cuts, colors, and uses. The stories, myths, and legends that surround the most celebrated gems and jewel-laden artifacts from around the world are revealed, from their journeys in the company of royalty, film stars, and thieves to the curse of the Hope Diamond. For additional reference, an 80-page reference section at the back of the book highlights a variety of other rocks and non-precious stones. Created in association with the Smithsonian Institution, Gem combines stunning photographs with expert knowledge, and its lavish jacket features a debossed and foiled diamond, making it perfect for gift giving.

A visual identification guide to gemstones provides a concise description of each stone, photographs that highlight characteristics and distinguishing features, and general information on where gemstones are found and their natural properties

Amber is an engaging overview of this natural substance. It also explores how the fossilized inclusions trapped in the golden resin of spruce trees provide a superb record of prehistoric species and habitats. Lavishly illustrated throughout, this book includes all the current knowledge and ongoing research, such as: - How amber is formed from the resin of ancient trees - The fascinating process by which amber preserves natural specimens - The secrets amber can reveal - Types of amber - Where amber can be found - The role of amber in science and art - Practical advice on how to distinguish genuine amber from fakes - Recent discoveries and developments Exclusive and particularly valuable features of the book include: - Stunning and previously unpublished photographs of specimens from the collection of the Natural History Museum in London - Detailed illustrated identification keys to the most common insect inclusions - The storied search for DNA in insect inclusions in amber Amber brings the study of this fascinating substance and its secrets within reach of any reader, and it will particularly fascinate rock hounds, fossil and gem enthusiasts, hobbyists and jewelry designers.

Explores the history, science, architecture, and mythology of the subterranean landscape, discussing the nature of human relationships with caves, catacombs, subway systems, and abandoned mines.

Revered for their beauty, unique electrical qualities, and metaphysical attributes, crystals have been precious to mankind for centuries. Crystals for Beginners explores the universal allure of crystals and demonstrates how to channel their dynamic energies. Beginning with how crystals were formed in the Earth billions of years ago, this practical guide introduces the history and myth surrounding these powerful minerals. From agates to zoisite, the characteristics of specific crystals are presented, along with advice for collecting, cleansing, and charging them. Readers also learn how to apply crystal energy to meditation, healing, psychic development, magic, divination, astral projection, dream work, and much more.

Chronicles the work and discoveries of paleontologist Niles Eldredge, tracing the history of life through the lense of paleontology, geology, ecology, anthropology, biology, zoology, mammalogy, herpetology, entomology, and botany.

A history of the role of rivers in shaping American politics, economics, and society draws on experts from diverse backgrounds to explore how the natural and human transformations of rivers have made a significant impact on the nation.

An acclaimed biographer and science writer profiles the early geologists who were the first to excavate from the layers of the world its buried history, exploring their triumphs and disappointments, and the theological, philosophical and scientific debates their findings provoked.