This guide describes Australia's common minerals and gems, some rarities and the odd curiousity, enabling collectors to identify a wide range of specimens.  Part 1 introduces the reader to gems and minerals, and their chemical and crystal systems. It also gives tips on recognising and valuing specimens. Part 2 features 288 superb colour photographs to accompany each gem or mineral entry. The entries include a description of each stone detailing its composition, structure and distribution. This lavishly illustrated guide also contains a glossary, a list of the elements and information on the source and dimensions of each specimen pictured, a buyer's guide to gemstones, suggestions for further reading, specimen details and an index.
Author  Lin Sutherland and Gayle Webb  Australia  2006  Full-colour gloss paperback  128 pages