Crystals are all around us - even inside our bodies - and they have fascinated people for thousands of years. This collection of specially commissioned photographs opens our eyes to their beauty and variety from brilliant diamonds to rare crystals of gold and silver.Starting with a definition of what crystals are and why and where they form this book examines their complex inner structures and fantastic geometrical shapes what gives them their amazing colours and other features such as hardness that are used in identification. Discover how crystals grow how they have been used as symbols of wealth and prestige and how some play an important role in technology.Produced in association with the Natural History Museum London Crystal & Gem is a superb introduction to the remarkable and surprising world of crystals.

Rock & Mineral

by Chris Pellant and R.F. Symes

Published 29 August 2002

Eyewitness Guides are best-selling, high-quality visual information books.
This title is a valuable resource to students whether they need to know about stalactites as old as dinosaurs or priceless nuggets of gold and silver.



The rocks and minerals beneath our feet are often ignored overlooked or misunderstood. This dazzling collection of specially commissioned photographs opens our eyes to their amazing beauty variety and importanceStarting with the physical composition of the Earth the book explains how rocks and minerals are classified and how they are formed. Discover how landscapes evolve how cave systems develop how the sand and pebbles of the seashore originate and how and where precious minerals metals and gems are mined.Produced in association with the Natural History Museum London Rock & Mineral is a compelling introduction to the Earth's geology and how we use its natural resources for building industry energy sculpture coins and jewellery.