Gemstones and Their Origins


Book Description

Each gem deposit-whether of primary origin in the parent rocks; or secondary as alluvial placers in valley floors, river gravels, or the sand of oceanic shelves presents an eloquent chronicle of the Earth's life story. It reveals to the expert the prodigious processes which formed the present crust of our planet, of which this volume discloses a small but exciting detail. The materials of the Earth's crust are the rocks. In this book, the author expounds on how they were formed, why they altered, why they became the cradles of precious gemstones, how they are categorized, and how they are now exploited by man. What initiates the growth of gemstones? How do they crystallize? Why do gemstones of the same species, originating from different sources, vary? What causes the occurrence of varieties? Why do diamonds, unlike other precious stones, occur not near the Earth's surface in its crust, but deep down beneath it in the upper mantle? These are only a few of the entrancing subjects discussed in this enlightening volume. The reader learns that the Earth is surprisingly alive and altering constantly-sometimes through slow and equable changes and at times by violent and tremendous cataclysms, events from which gemstones issue.










Rockhound and Prospector's Bible


Book Description

This book contains data on the mineral deposits themselves, broken down by magmatic, hydrothermal, secondary and placer deposits, as well as gemstones. Determinative tables, specific geologic environment references and a glossary round out this book. This Bible should appeal to the reader who wants a deeper understanding of geologic processes.-----------------------------I have no hesitation recommending this most useful "Bible" to all students of gemology. Not only will you enjoy reading this book, you will be amazed at what you will learn about the practical aspects of mineral identification, with the assistance of the Determinative Tables and the listing of Geologic Environments of Minerals. Its purchase is highly recommended for students. Len Ettinger's more than decades of expertise in exploration geology is obvious. This is indeed a book to teach the practically applicable basics of field mineral identification and prospecting techniques. -Revered Australian gemologist Grahame Brown, former editor of the Journal of the Gemmological Association of Australia-----------------------------The Rockhound and Prospector's Bible is more than just a basic text for the gold-panner or rockhound. It is actually a study guide which begins by giving the reader a general introduction to Geology. This detailed, yet simple to understand volume is recommended for those who are interested in how mineral and gems came to be, rather than just giving directions to sites where they can be located. - Stanley W. Paher, in the Las Vegas Review Journal




A Fossicker's Guide to Gemstones in Australia


Book Description

First published in 1982 as 'A Prospector's Guide to Gemstones'. Provides information about tools, permits and local regulations covering fossicking. Lists the gemstones found in each Australian state and describes gems in their natural state. Includes maps, colour photographs of gems, suggestions for further reading, glossary and index.







Minerals, Rocks and Gems


Book Description