A Field Guide to the Identification and Collection of Rocks, Minerals & Gems Explore Earth’s Treasures—From the Ground Beneath Your Feet to the Sparkle in Your Hand. Whether you're a curious beginner, an avid rockhound, or a seasoned collector, this comprehensive guide is your ultimate companion to discovering and identifying the natural wonders hidden in the world around you. Packed with clear, easy-to-understand information and field-tested tips, this book covers everything from common rock types and collectible minerals to dazzling gemstones. Inside, you'll find: Detailed profiles of well-known rocks and minerals and gems—complete with uses, properties, and where to find them. - Expert tips for rockhounding success, including field tools, safety, legal considerations, and collecting ethics. - Beautifully organized entries by rock and mineral types: igneous, sedimentary, metamorphic, native elements, ores, gems, and more. - Practical identification guidance with descriptions of color, hardness, luster, texture, and formation. - Bonus insights on where to look, when to go, and how to build your own collection. From mountain trails to desert plains and streambeds, A Field Guide to the Identification and Collection of Rocks, Minerals & Gems helps you unlock the secrets of the Earth—and gives you the confidence to start (or expand) your journey as a rockhound.