"Designed for beginners and experienced collectors alike, DK's Smithsonian Handbook of Rocks and Minerals' explains what rocks or minerals are, how they are classified, and how to start a collection. A clear visual key illustrates the differences between igneous, metamorphic, and sedimentary rocks, then guides the reader to the correct rock entry. A concise glossary provides instant understanding of technical and scientific terms"--Back cover.

Examines the nature, formation, and different kinds of rocks and minerals and explains how to collect them.

"Completely revised and expanded, this fourth edition covers the 992 minerals found in Arizona, showcased with breathtaking new color photographs throughout the book. The new edition includes more than 200 new species not reported in the 3rd edition and previously unknown in Arizona"--

Science writer Seymour Simon explains to readers the different types of rocks and minerals with facts and full-color photographs. Readers will learn how to identify and classify various kinds of stones, such as granite, sandstone, basalt, quartz, and crystal.

"This volume gives you the basic tools to transition from "pebble pup" to expert rockhound and explains everything from geology basics, identification tips, tools of the trade, how to record your findings, and how to set up a lab or gem shop. Before you know it, you'll be driving the open roads and traveling home with dusty pockets full of rocks, gems, minerals, fossils--and maybe even gold." --Amazon.com.

"Learn about the different types of minerals, each with its own special characteristics"--Page 4 of cover.

Compact and portable, Whats That Rock, Mineral or Gem? is an indispensable beginners pocket guide to identifying the 150 most common North American rocks and minerals.