Book Description
Providing enough background to be rigorous, without being exhaustive, it gives readers good preparation in the techniques of modern petrology; a clear and organized review of the classification, textures, and approach to petrologic study; and then applies these concepts to the real occurrences of the rocks themselves. Requires only a working knowledge of algebra, and makes extensive use of spreadsheets. Includes an accompanying diskette of programs and data files. This book offers unique, comprehensive, up-to-date coverage of both igneous and metamorphic petrology in a single volume and provides the quantitative and technical background required to critically evaluate igneous and metamorphic phenomena.
Customer Reviews:
Intro to Ig and Met Petro.......2007-03-09
It is a well written book, but there are no color pictures. If I spend that amount of money on a hardcover textbook, I expect some color photos, especially since mineralogy and petrology deal with birefringence colors and such.
Great intro to igneous/metamorphic petrology.......2006-09-15
This book is one of those rare things that isn't painful to read for the sometimes heady subject matter. Winters style is even humorous at times and he keeps it very simple and straightforward. Phase diagrams are explainied in detail and there are just a lot of great visuals that help students understand the evolution of magmas and the significance of isotopes and trace elements present. We use this book at GMU and I was very happy with Winter's PP slides that are available online. Very clear, very concise and fairly easy to read.
This is the book.......2006-04-20
The book is excellent. This is the book that you have to have if you are studying igneous petrology. Plain and simple.
One of the best resources on this subject!.......2002-02-16
As a former student of John Winters, I can honestly say that this book does a terrific job with a subject that can be very complicated! After reading this text (and taking his class!) I came away with a clear understanding of the concepts discussed. And, of course, a little humor here and there helps. The chapters flow well together yet can be read individually, and I plan on keeping this text for future reference. Highly recommended!
A great book for all studing geology.......2001-11-16
This is a really great book for all students who want to learn sometfing about igneous and metamorphic petrology. Written exeptionally well, with good sence of humor, it covers all the topics related to the formation and evolution of igneous and metamorphic rocks, gives you comprehensive (and comprehensible -- that is also inportant) information about rock types, their classification, textures, structures, rock forming minerals, magmaism, volcanism, metamorphism, their relationships to the tectonic settings and global lithosphere plate motion, etc. It contains so much useful information that can even been used as a handbook for those who work in or study geology, petrology, geochemistry, and geophysics. Reading this book greatly improves your understanding of the subject, so, eventually, you feel you can easily get complicated concepts and ideas, even find beauty in them, and hence enjoy your reading -- the situation which is not usually met for petrology texts.
I used this book as a textbook when I took a course in petrology last year -- and it was great help for me. And I would like to say thanks to John Winter for his really good work.
Customer Reviews:
A handy quick reference guide that is easy to use........2007-09-03
I fear that I am a bit of a magpie. I like shiny sparkly things, and the usual response is Ooooh! Shiny! And as a young one, when taken on various trips, I started to take an interest in rockhounding and geology. It was finding gemstones that were the real fun, seeing these little bits of glittery rock that turned out to be sapphires or amethysts or garnets. Life would take me in different directions, but the interest in pretty, glittery rocks has remained.
Smithsonian Handbooks: Gemstones is one of those lovely little books that is crammed full of information and pictures, along some folklore and bits of trivia that add to the mystique of gemstones. Compiled by Cally Hall, it's a very readable book, filled with more than 800 photographs, with a text that while it is slanted towards scientific terms, is very readable and accessable.
The first section of the book is an extended introduction to what makes a gemstone different than say, a mineral, although they might be composed of the same chemicals. A brief history of how gemstones and precious metals (silver, gold and platinum) have been shaped, worn and coveted. One section that I found very intesting was the explaination of the Mohs scale used to determined hardness -- it ranges from 1 to 10, with talc at the bottom, and diamond at the top, and how a stone is determined to fit in along the scale. Another fascinating section is how light and crystallization help to determine gemstones, and what part they play in how a stone is shaped and graded. There is also a section on synthetic gemstones and how they have been created over the centuries, and how the colour of stones can be changed by irradiation, heating and staining the stones. Finally, the section closes with a colour key, ranging various stones by their hues, with plenty of vivid pictures and the name of each stone underneath along with the page that goes into more detail about it.
The next section deals with the gemstones and precious metals in particular. Each item is classified into Precious Metals, Cut Stones, and Organics -- and each item is given a page or two that goes into further detail. Stones are given their chemical composition, rating on the Mohs scale, crystal structure, some folklore and history, what sort of cuts that the stones are usually shaped into, and lots of photographs.
It here in the photographs that the book sells itself. They are unusually clear, and crisply printed, with each gemstone being shown in a variety of ways. There is jewelry, different colours that the stone can occur in, and a few shown in their 'matrix' or the surrounding stone and minerals that the gemstones are usually found in their natural state. One of the more intriguing sections is on what are known as Organic Gemstones -- stones that are created by natural, not chemical, occurances, such as pearls, jet, coral, ivory, shell and amber.
The final sections include a table of properties, glossary, index, and some useful addresses to contact if you find that you want to find out more.
The binding is very sturdy, the printing very clean and crisp with the design well-thought out that flows easily from page to page. It is designed to stand up to quite a bit of use, with a spine that will not crack, and heavier than usual paper stock, and the quality is top notch.
Packed into less than a 160 pages, this is a wonderfully priced little book that gives a quick, informative and lively look at gemstones. While it's certainly not a perfect book, and is mostly designed to help the reader figure out what a stone may or may not be -- only a trained gemologist can tell you what it really is -- it's a fun way to start learning. The price was extremely reasonable, less than 10$US, although the cover price is listed as 20$US. It would make a perfect book for adding to a home library, or as a gift to the budding rockhound in your family.
Five solid stars. Recommended.
Gemstones Handbook.......2007-08-14
Great Book...full of useful information. The pictures really give you an indepth but brief description of the item discussed. This book is absolutely essential to the amature hobby collectors out there.
Good Gemstone reference book.......2007-08-13
Great book for those wanting to know the basics about gemstones. The pictures are wonderful and the tidbits are interesting.
Another great DK book.......2007-06-30
I bought this book for my [...] son after we spent an afternoon panning for gemstones in Breckinridge, CO. The bookseller recommended several choices, but the DK book seemed the most kid-friendly. He likes the pictures the best, and enjoyed showing his younger cousins the various stones.
Lovely Reference.......2007-06-29
I bought this for my 7-yr. old daughter - budding rock hound and naturalist! Like other DK books, the photography is luscious and the layout is casual and very inviting - full of beautiful images.
It provides a great overview and history of gemstones and their appeal, where specific stones can be found and appealing photographs of the different cuts of stones. It also provides detailed "specifics" such as structure, composition and hardness.
This is a thoroughly engaging book for all ages and it is highly recommended.
Average customer rating:
- Gemstones of the world
- Gemstones of the World
- Great book, tiny print...
- Best overall gemstone book ever
- Gemstone trader's bible
|
Gemstones of the World: Newly Revised & Expanded Third Edition
Walter Schumann
Manufacturer: Sterling
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Hardcover
 General
| Science
| Subjects
| Books
Rocks & Minerals
| Nature & Ecology
| Science
| Subjects
| Books
Gems
| Mineralogy
| Earth Sciences
| Science
| Subjects
| Books
General
| Geology
| Earth Sciences
| Science
| Subjects
| Books
Geology
| Earth Sciences
| Professional Science
| Professional & Technical
| Subjects
| Books
Reference
| Outdoors & Nature
| Subjects
| Books
Similar Items:
-
Gemstones (Smithsonian Handbooks)
-
Gem Identification Made Easy, Third Edition: A Hands-On Guide to More Confident Buying & Selling
-
The Jeweler's Directory of Gemstones: A Complete Guide to Appraising and Using Precious Stones From Cut and Color to Shape and Settings
-
Colored Gemstones, 2nd Edition: The Antoinette Matlins Buying Guide: How to Select, Buy, Care for & Enjoy Sapphires, Emeralds, Rubies and Other Colored Gemstones
-
Gemstone Buying Guide, Second Edition: How to Evaluate, Identify, Select & Care for Colored Gems
ASIN: 1402740166 |
Book Description
Gemstones of the World is truly the single volume that every hobbyist, jeweler, jewelry maker, and rockhound needs: it’s the cornerstone of the field. And this updated edition contains a host of new findings on “Gemstones for Collectors,” additional gems in the “Table of Constants,” and the “double fraction” figures that experts have long wanted—a very special new feature.
All the gemstones are treated in their many variations: more than 1,500 full-color photos showcase each precious and semiprecious stone in both its rough, natural, and its polished and cut renditions. Each entry offers complete information on the gemstone’s formation, structure, physical properties, and characteristics, along with the best methods of working, cutting, and polishing it. There are even full treatments of lesser-known gems, from andalusite to vesuvian, and a special section is devoted to rocks as precious stones, including alabaster, onyx, obsidian, and fossils. Organic gem materials are also covered, such as coral, ivory, amber, and pearl. Charts and tables help collectors identify unknown gemstones and check for genuineness.
Customer Reviews:
Gemstones of the world.......2007-09-21
This is a very informative book with some good pictures, especially for the beginner who is learnig about gemstones. I read and reference it often. I am very pleased with this book and I look forward to using it for a long time.
Gemstones of the World.......2007-09-12
I use it all the time. It has answered all of my questions. Great book.
Great book, tiny print..........2007-08-31
I so want to read this book but every time I try I get a headache because the print is so tiny, and that is with my reading glasses on. Otherwise a very interesting book!
Best overall gemstone book ever.......2007-08-08
I bought the 2001 edition several years ago and found it indispensable at the jewelry store where I worked. Now that I'm getting into the nitty gritty of the Graduate Gemologist program at the GIA, I'm quite pleased to find an updated version available. I expect I'll be taking this to school with me to replace several large, ungainly lab manuals that haunt my desk.
This book makes a great cornerstone for any gem library. I own many gem guides and encyclopedias twice the size and weight of this while containing considerably less information. This one has the most complete collection of information and pictures I've seen anywhere at an astonishingly diminutive size. If you plan to buy only one gem book in your lifetime, I highly recommend this one.
Gemstone trader's bible.......2007-07-28
I dabble in gemstones - buying and selling from Brazil, Colombia and other countries. Schumann's book is a bible - an essential reference with a very accessable layout, excellent and concise information. Rarely do I need to seek other sources when researching stones.
Book Description
Perfect for mountain climbers and hikers, this valuable reference covers more rocks and minerals in North America than any other available guide. 794 full-color photographs depict all the important rocks, gems, and minerals -- in many variations of color and crystal form -- and the natural environments in which they occur; written descriptions provide information on field marks, similar rocks and minerals, environment, areas of occurrence, and derivation of names. Includes a guide to mineral collecting and a list of rock-forming minerals
Customer Reviews:
an important book in any naturalist's library.......2007-09-30
As with all the Audubon guides, the glossy photographs; durable binding and leatherette cover; and cross-referencing the index via the color plates, are what make these guides important.
This rock field guide has a good glossary of terms that is helpful. Also, there are identification keys for color, fabric, and hardness of specimens, along with descriptions indicating areas to locate them.
Unlike the animal and plant field guides, this one hasn't gone out of date like the others. However, the deficencies still apply: the details are pretty general, and the summaries are ridiculously short. Still, this book is one of the best in the series and should be on anyone's shelf that has even a passing interest in geology.
Extracts: A Field Guide for Iconoclasts
The Cloud Reckoner
Audubon guides are the best.......2007-09-28
If you're looking for a terrific field guide with tons of details as well as excellent photos for identification, you'll never be disappointed with Audubon guides.
Great for the educated.......2007-09-02
This is a good book for someone who already understands how to use it. There should be an instruction book to go along with it. It has some fine detail in the photos but not in how to look things up by their name. If I had a degree in geology, I would not have a problem using this one, but I don't, so I'm operating under a severe handicap.Is there a guidebook for the Guidebook?
A more serious field guide.......2007-06-29
I bought this book, along with DK/Smithsonian guides to "Rocks & Minerals" and "Gemstones" for my children, one of which is a budding rockhound.
While I am certainly no expert in this area, my very amateur opinion is that this bulky guide is far more scientific and in keeping with traditional field guide format.
The binding is certainly sturdy, and after a short introduction to mineral identification, the book features a photograph of each of the minerals profiled, along with a reference page to the descriptive key that follows. The same is done with rocks.
As a homeschooling mother of two, I would say this book is better for older children or adults with an interest in this field. My 7-yr-old daughter is far more likely to pick up one of the DK/Smithsonian guides (which are separate and less complete) than this one.
I foresee the pages of this book getting a bit more daylight as my children get older.
Highly recommended.
I turn to michaellandonsrock when you are gone.......2007-01-27
I've written to the National Audubon society and several geologists concerning an omission in this book.
I can't remember when Michael Landon and I discovered our mutual love of geology, but it remained a constant in our friendship. Shortly before he began to film for his finest role as Jonathan Smith in "Highway to Heaven", Michael Landon and I embarked upon a geological survey of Northern Canada. Using his celebrity influence, Michael Landon was granted a royal charter from Franz Joseph II, then Prince of Liechtenstein, to finance any mining capital should we discover a new gem to add to the Prince's famous gem-trunk.
We eventually found a quiet piece of land within the traditional lands of the Nis'gl't'k people. After spending seven months documenting and learning their language I anglicised their name. The "Huxtable people" spoke of a cave famous in their stories for being the home of N'gaask'ul'k'ot, or "Gelman." Instinctively, Michael Landon went there, to Gelman's cave. He refused to use anything but a 10 inch hunting knife when quarrying. He furiously knifed at the cave wall for 4 or 6 hours without any apparent consistency to where his knife struck. Suddenly the cave stank. I looked at Michael Landon with contempt, but to my surprise his face was not sheepish. I wondered then where the smell came from. I followed his peepers, and he was using them to look at a gem that lay before his fallow blade. We both knew what we had discovered, but we consulted our Audubon guide. It wasn't listed. In his excitement, Michael Landon first suggested naming it "stinkrock", then "stankrock" and finally "smellrock." I took on a soothing tone to pacify him and delicately suggested we call it the "Landonquicklyite." He put a single finger to his pursed lips, furrowed his brow, squatted, started walking around while squatting, and then eagerly said "let's call it Michael Landon's Rock." Kenneth Waltz later characterised our relationship as having a power imbalance, probably a reason why the gem came to be known among us and in some geological circles as "michaellandonsrock."
In weight comparable to the density of those memories, I still have 10 pounds of michaellandonsrock. I even put some in the rock tumbler and they look nice.
So, perhaps my review is biased, but I hope that in the future the Audubon Society will investigate my claim.
Product Description
A comprehensive listing of the therapeutic uses and healing effects of the most important crystals and gemstones.
Customer Reviews:
Great service.......2007-08-11
The book arrived in a timely manner & no shipping damage. Item was just as described. Thank you.
grab this and Judy Hall's "Crystal Bible" and nothing else..........2007-08-04
excellent, excellent book with vivid pics and of course all the wonderful sections and advantages already mentioned, but consider this...I have used the chapter "The Magical Connection between Stone and Star" to create healing bracelets/anklets for others and for myself made from the stones listed for our particular birth signs-very cool! The wealth of information at the tips of your fingers is just astounding...I refer to this and Judy Hall's "The Crystal Bible" and "Crystals and Healing Stones" for more obscure stones daily. I found it on a clearance rack and bought 3 copies-two sisters love crystals and two friends, so I was one short since I had my copy already...I am in the dog house because I mention it alot! IF YOU SEE IT GET IT, you won't regret it!
Beautiful Reference.......2007-07-12
If you're looking for an in-depth reference book on crystal therapy, this is NOT the right tome for you. If you're looking for a book that handily serves as lightweight resource, historical reference and coffee table volume, this is perfect.
Author Flora Peschek-Bohmer incorporates stunning photography in this beautiful epistle, laying her narratives over glossy pages and lush images. The hardback version, at approximately 7 x 9.5 inches, is a generous size without being too large to tuck into a suitcase. The text contains a blend of history and crystal lore, presented in simple-to-follow terms. Stated metaphysical attributes frequently takes a back seat to historical references, where Peschek-Bohmer provides an intriguing look at how mankind has employed stones for various uses.
While the primary thrust is the metaphysical properties of crystals, this book also includes a good rundown of care, cleansing and other tools for anyone who wants to carry or use or just collect examples of the featured stones.
Good Crystal reference.......2007-05-20
This is a great little book - has all the main details on most crystals, including a lot of the more recently discovered ones. However, does not for example include a fairly common crystal such as howlite. The pictures are very good though and there is enough basic information to satisfy most.
Healing Crystals and Gemstones.......2007-05-07
Great pictures and illustrations! The book really helps me to feel like I know how to use crystals and gemstones like a pro! I think that it is very good for a beginner.
Book Description
For goldsmiths, collectors, jewelry-makers, investors, retailers and consumers.
The trade of gemstones is a highly specialized and often secretive business. Using
The Jeweler's Directory of Gemstones, written by an expert gemstone dealer and designer, will provide any consumer with the insider knowledge needed to make accurate judgments of gemstones, to recognize low- and high-quality stones, and to make a good buy rather than a bad one.
Each full-color spread is packed with concise text, annotated drawings and beautiful photographs, including a showcase of virtuoso jewelry designs. Great for informed consumers, the book includes:
- Sources and grading
- Traditional and modern settings
- Cutting and faceting
- Designing a special setting
- Gemstone groups
- Appraising, buying and handling gemstones
- Diamond types and pearls
- Spotting synthetics and fakes.
Here is a sampling of the practical insider information in this book:
- Using a loupe to examine a stone
- Understanding laser cutting and carving
- Identifying synthetic diamonds
- Buying at gem fairs and from dealers
- Cleaning and storing stones.
No other book has this kind expert advice -- up-to-date, clearly presented and fully illustrated -- on evaluating and using gemstones.
Customer Reviews:
Libraries will find this holds wide appeal for a range of gem crafters........2007-07-27
Anyone interested in working with gemstones, from jewelers and jewelry makers to designers, will find THE JEWELER'S DIRECTORY OF GEMSTONES: A COMPLETE GUIDE TO APPRAISING AND USING PRECIOUS STONES, FROM CUT AND COLOR TO SHAPE AND SETTING an invaluable resource. Here a history pairs with tips on how to appraise and use gemstones properly, with color photos tying all topic together. Sections are divided into ideas on creating gemstones through mining and collecting, identifying types of stones, and using them in designs. Libraries will find this holds wide appeal for a range of gem crafters.
Diane C. Donovan
California Bookwatch
Very helpful.......2007-06-27
This book has a ton of interesting information for the collector. I would recommend it highly.
Appraising is not really addressed.......2007-05-29
This book is rich in accurate images of gems and minerals and has a scientific review of chemical composition, hardness and refractive properties. It is not, however, a guide for appraisal. I have seen a small booklet that determines the carats of gems based on the dimensions and shape of the particular stone. This information is what I had hope to get, but, unfortunately, did not.
Invaluable book for the serious gem colletor........2007-05-21
Highly authortative, well written, profusely illustrated and, simply, a wealh of information.
More than just info on stones.......2007-05-19
This book has valuable information about stones with good pictures, but it also has beautifully designed jewelry. A great addition to a jewelry library.
Average customer rating:
- Rock Reflections
- Great book
- Great for Earth Science teachers!
- enjoyable lesson and artwork
- Everybody Needs This Book
|
Everybody Needs a Rock (An Aladdin Book)
Byrd Baylor
Manufacturer: Aladdin
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback
Crafts & Hobbies
| Arts & Music
| Children's Books
| Subjects
| Books
Rocks & Minerals
| Nature
| Science, Nature & How It Works
| Children's Books
| Subjects
| Books
General
| Baby-3
| Children's Books
| Subjects
| Books
General
| Literature
| Children's Books
| Subjects
| Books
General
| Puzzles & Games
| Entertainment
| Subjects
| Books
General
| Crafts & Hobbies
| Home & Garden
| Subjects
| Books
Crafts & Hobbies
| Arts & Music
| Children's Books
| 4-for-3 Books Store
| Stores
| Books
General
| Baby-3
| Children's Books
| 4-for-3 Books Store
| Stores
| Books
General
| Literature
| Children's Books
| 4-for-3 Books Store
| Stores
| Books
Rocks & Minerals
| Nature
| Science, Nature & How It Works
| Children's Books
| 4-for-3 Books Store
| Stores
| Books
General
| Puzzles & Games
| Entertainment
| 4-for-3 Books Store
| Stores
| Books
General
| Crafts & Hobbies
| Home & Garden
| 4-for-3 Books Store
| Stores
| Books
All 4-for-3 Deals
| 4-for-3 Books Store
| Stores
| Books
Similar Items:
-
The Other Way to Listen
-
I'm in Charge of Celebrations (Aladdin Picture Books)
-
If You Find a Rock
-
The Way to Start a Day
-
The Table Where Rich People Sit (Aladdin Picture Books)
ASIN: 0689710518 |
Book Description
Everybody needs a rock -- at least that's the way this particular rock hound feels about it in presenting her own highly individualistic rules for finding just the right rock for you.
Customer Reviews:
Rock Reflections.......2007-10-08
Thank You Byrd Baylor. I teach a class of adults in recovery. This book has a wonderful message. Everybody in the class chose a rock that appealed to them, a discussion presented inspiring feedback, that was meaningful. Nature has a way of touching our hearts. Nature has a way of growing our spirit.
Great book.......2007-09-30
I bought this book for use in an early childhood classroom for 3 to 5 year old children, and the children and I just love it! It's a relaxing story to use and lends itself well to a variety of themes and activities. I wish I had this one when my own children were small. They would have LOVED it!
Great for Earth Science teachers!.......2006-04-15
I teach 6th grade and one of the things we learn about is rocks. I bought this book based on the reviews, but after reading it I felt compelled to write one too. I try to get my students excited about rock collecting. This book is so simple, yet so inspiring. It begins by saying "I'm sorry for kids who only have tricycles, bicycles, horses, elephants, goldfish, three-room playhouses, fire engines, wind-up dragons and things like that - if they don't have a rock for a friend." It then goes on to list 10 simple rules for finding your rock...not just any rock. A rock that you will keep forever. The rules include where to find your rock and remember "You should choose your rock when everything is quiet. Don't let dogs bark at you or bees buzz at you." The book concedes, "Don't get a rock that is too big. You'll always be sorry. It won't fit in your right hand and it won't fit in your pocket. A rock as big as an apple is too big. A rock as big as a horse is MUCH too big." This is the perfect book to get your rock collectors started and excited about geology.
enjoyable lesson and artwork.......2004-07-02
Under the guise of giving ten rules for choosing one's "special rock", the author advises kids (and adults who read to them), to connect with nature and to act with deliberation. The line drawings are muted in color yet evocative and filled with imagination, and will be of interest to kids who have seen only traditional artwork.
Everybody Needs This Book.......2003-12-09
I bought this book for myself at Rocks and Stuff in Chelan, Washington. We visit this store on our annual vacations and are always awed and fascinatated by what we find there.
This book is a gem, telling us the importance of rocks, all the things they can be for us. More importantly than that, it tells us about our sense of self and our place in the bigger world. All that in a kid's book.
This book will be part of a gift, along with some cool rocks, for my niece, who picks up rocks wherever she goes.
Book Description
Mark Kurlansky, the bestselling author of Cod and The Basque History of the World, here turns his attention to a common household item with a long and intriguing history: salt. The only rock we eat, salt has shaped civilization from the very beginning, and its story is a glittering, often surprising part of the history of humankind. A substance so valuable it served as currency, salt has influenced the establishment of trade routes and cities, provoked and financed wars, secured empires, and inspired revolutions. Populated by colorful characters and filled with an unending series of fascinating details, Kurlansky's kaleidoscopic history is a supremely entertaining, multi-layered masterpiece.
Customer Reviews:
A Whirlwind Tour of One of Mankind's Most Important Products!.......2007-09-23
This is a whirlwind historial tour of one of civilizations most important products!
A sustance so valuable, salt has served as currency, influenced the establishment of trade routes and cities, provoked and financed wars, secured empires, and inspired revolutions.
The United States is both the largest producer of salt in the world and the largest consumer. It produceds more than 40 million metric tons, earning more than $1 billion in sales revenues.
Author Mark Kurlansky writes that fashionable people are divided into two camps. The first is passionate about staying healthy and eating less salt. The second is pasionate about salt.
Like all his books, Kurlansky's "Salt" is endlessly interesting and informative.
Exceptional non-fiction.......2007-09-09
I read very little non-fiction, but this book was so full of interesting facts that it was almost impossible to put down. Kurlansky's account of mankind's quest for salt and the commerce it created is indeed a mini-history of civilization. The book is well written, easy to read, and holds the reader's interest from first page to last. I found myself reaching for it again and again to find out what happens next. Who would have dreamed that a common every-day product that we take for granted could have such a rich, varied history? Kurlansky did a wonderful job!
Throw It Over Your Left Shoulder!.......2007-08-28
Salt is a great subject for a book. Everyone is familiar with salt. It complements the flavor of food (as with French fries). It can be used to preserve foods (salted fish for example). It can be used to process foods (such as cheeses). It can be found in salt mines and in the evaporation of salt water. It is a commodity that can be bought and sold. It can be taxed by the government. And it can be exaggerated.
I'll give just one example. Midway through the book, the author states, "The history of the Americas is one of constant warfare over salt. Whoever controlled salt was in power." Think about that! The Declaration of Independence? -- Salt. The American Revolution? -- Salt. The Whiskey Rebellion? -- Salt. The War of 1812? -- Salt. The Mexican War? -- Salt. At least he did not say, "Give me liberty or give me salt!" Nonetheless, continued overreaching and exaggeration render the author's opinions unreliable and completely undercut the appearance of meticulous research. It is not long before the reader hears a voice in the back of his/her mind repeatedly saying, "I wonder if that is true?"
The book recites many interesting stories and presents novel perspectives of the role of salt in human society. However, as noted by many prior reviewers, the deficiencies of lack of organization, statements that are scientifically suspect and lack of historical reliability greatly detract from the potential of the subject matter. It is not a waste of time but there are better books out there.
An extraordinary read..........2007-08-15
Among the most thought-provoking books I have read...the impact of salt upon history is extraordinary.
A must-read for foodies and non-academic history buffs.......2007-08-11
I bought this book after it was recommended to me by a professor in a food-writing course. It sat on the shelf for more than a semester, as I had a full stack of books to get through for class. Then this summer a chef friend of mine finished it in about a day and started raving to me about it, so I figured it was time to crack it open.
It is one of the few books in the last year that I could not put down. I normally read several books at a time, skipping from one to another as my interest waxes and wanes. I finished this book in three days, and would have done so much faster if not for classes. Kurlansky's style is attention grabbing and well structured, and he kept me wondering where his narrative history of salt was headed next.
This book is an epicurean's history of the world, and as the title of my review states, I would recommend it to just about any fan of good food. It may not match up to the exhaustive standards of the work of strictly academic historians: but if it did, it would not be nearly as fun a read.
Kurlansky's research into Chinese salt practices was especially fascinating to me, and I have the feeling that with his skill he could devote an entire volume to that topic. I look forward to reading his book 'Cod', and anything else he writes.
Book Description
The Smithsonian Handbook of Rocks and Minerals combines 600 vivid full--color photos with descriptions of more than 500 specimens. This authoritative and systematic photographic approach, with words never separated from pictures, marks a new generation of identification guides. Each entry combines a precise description with annotated photographs to highlight the chief characteristics of the rock or mineral and distinguishing features. Color--coded bands provide a clear, at--a--glance facts for quick reference. In addition, each mineral entry features an illustration showing the crystal system to which the mineral belongs. Designed for beginners and experienced collectors alike, the Smithsonian Handbook of Rocks and Minerals explains what rocks or minerals are, how they are classified, and how to start a collection. To help in the initial stages of rock identification, 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
Customer Reviews:
Rocks and Minerals.......2007-08-14
Great Book...full of useful information. The pictures really give you an indepth but brief description of the item discussed. This book is absolutely essential to the amature hobby collectors out there.
Clear & Beautifully Presented.......2007-06-29
I bought this for my 7-yr. old daughter - budding rock hound and naturalist! Like other DK books, the photography is luscious and the layout is casual and very inviting - full of beautiful images.
It provides a great overview of rocks and minerals, including tools used to find them, the different characteristics and where specific types of rocks and minerals can be found. It also provides detailed "specifics" such as classification, occurence and cleavage - as appropriate.
This is a thoroughly engaging book for all ages and it is highly recommended.
Smithsonian Rocks and Minerals.......2007-03-21
I am the author of two books, "Collecting Fluorescent Minerals" and "The World of Fluorescent Minerals" and needed additional resources for non-fluorescent minerals. This book was nicely done - good illustrations, lots of variety, clearly written - but the information covering fluorescent minerals in this book was not very accurate. Every mineral collector needs several sources to get a good idea of what he or she has and this is one that I will continue to use. This should not be your only book, but it is worth having among your library.
Very pleased!.......2007-03-19
this was such a huge help on a test I had! The pictures and discriptions leave little to be desired. A very good investment!
Great Picture Resource .......2007-03-08
I have been looking for a field guide for my 6-year-old son and could only find books for children that gave a general overview of rocks and minerals. This book is the one I have been looking for. I knew that DK would be the publisher to give me what I wanted. In DK fashion, the pages are easy to read without a lot of text clunking up the page. The rocks are organized in nice boxes with information laid out neatly and unobtrusively. Each page features two new rocks with a large full-color picture of each. This is now his favorite book. It has all of the information we have been looking for in a concise, easy-to-read format. Each profile gives the name and visual outline of crystal system; specific gravity; cleavage; fracture; chemical test to confirm identification; mineral-forming environment; main text describes mineral's identifying features; standard name of the mineral; chemical group to which the mineral belongs; chemical formula for the mineral; hardness according to the Mohs' scale; variations of the mineral shown in full-color when applicable; annotations identifying mineral's main identifying features. I LOVE this book. It is a great book for kids(who eat, sleep, and breathe rocks and minerals) and adults. I am thinking of getting another one just for me. I think this would also be an invaluable resource for classroom teachers. I will be teaching First Grade and will use this book to introduce scientific concepts.
Book Description
This is the ultimate photographic guide to the world of rocks and minerals, with a strong emphasis on how to build a diverse and colorful collection.
Customer Reviews:
Encyclopedia of Rocks and Minerals, a Review.......2007-03-21
I am the author of two books, "Collecting Fluorescent Minerals" and "The World of Fluorescent Minerals" and needed additional resources for non-fluorescent minerals. This book was nicely done - good illustrations, lots of variety, clearly written - but the information covering fluorescent minerals in this book was not very accurate. Every mineral collector needs several sources to get a good idea of what he or she has and this is one that I will continue to use. This should not be your only book, but it is worth having among your library.
Books:
- Introduction to Management Science
- Introduction To Statistical Pattern Recognition (Computer Science and Scientific Computing Series)
- Introduction To Statistical Pattern Recognition (Computer Science and Scientific Computing Series)
- It's Easy Being Green: A Handbook for Earth-Friendly Living
- Lasers and Optical Fibers In Medicine (PHYSICAL TECHNIQUES IN BIOLOGY & MEDICINE)
- Law of Attraction: The Science of Attracting More of What You Want and Less of What You Don't
- Linear Algebra and Its Applications (3rd Edition)
- Living Time: Faith and Facts to Transform Your Cancer Journey
- Management Information Systems for the Information Age with CD and MISource
- Mind Hacks: Tips & Tricks for Using Your Brain (Hacks)
Books Index
Books Home
Recommended Books
- Nixon and Mao: The Week That Changed the World
- History: Fiction or Science
- Earthly Possessions
- English Gardens of the Twentieth Century: From the Archives of Country Life
- History: Fiction or Science
- Foundations of Earth Science
- FE Review Manual: Rapid Preparation for the General Fundamentals of Engineering Exam
- The Irrational Season
- Cracking The Egg-man
- Sea Wolf: The Daring Exploits of Navy Legend John D. Bulkely
Principles of Sedimentology and Stratigraphy (4th Edition)
Earth Structure: An Introduction to Structural Geology and Tectonics
Introduction to Optical Mineralogy
Structural Geology of Rocks and Regions, 2nd Edition
An Introduction to the Rock-Forming Minerals (2nd Edition)
