Rocks & Minerals of Western North America

Did you ever find an interesting rock and wonder what type of rock it is, and how it came to be formed? Western North America is rich in rocks and minerals of various origins, and in this new book, the most common ones are described in detail and illustrated in full color. This clear visual guide will help you identify rocks and minerals throughout the west, and give you fascinating information on their place in the landscape. Included here are jade, gold and other minerals that the west is famous for, as well as many more rocks that came from volcanoes or evolved from other substances or formed under intense heat and pressure; rocks that have brittle crystals or paper-thin layers or silky fibers. Some rocks and minerals are essential to our buildings and infrastructures; others are favorites for artists who make them into pendants, cameos and other amazing works. With the straightforward language and crisp, vibrant photographs in this guide, you will look at rocks and minerals in a whole new light!