Among rock-forming minerals, the vesuvianite group is best known through the many colorful crystals collected at the Jeffrey quarry, in Asbestos, Canada. Spectacular finds in China and Pakistan have added interest in this mineral group. The detailed text begins with an explanation of the chemistry and taxonomy of the group and a discussion of ongoing research into problems such as color, structure, and optically anomalous crystals. A section on their formation and geochemistry explains the kinds of environments where vesuvianites are formed. Each mineral has a detailed entry for information...

The amphibole group is extremely important, widespread, and beautiful, with a structure that can accommodate a bewildering variety of compositions and potentially hundreds of unique specimens. This timely volume will allow mineral collectors to understand how the amphiboles are organised and named, and to relate obsolete names to currently accepted ones. Over 140 full-colour crystal images help the reader visualise the important structural features that define amphiboles and control their physical properties. This reference also provides information that collectors need to know to better...

The definitive resource for mineral collectors, this comprehensive book describes the structural relationships among orthosilicateminerals, known for their hardness and brilliant colors, and the geological conditions that create prized specimens. It is illustrated with nearly 500 structure diagrams, color photos, and electron micrographs that will help collectors appreciate the minerals already in their collection, build a collection with greater depth, and find additional information. A web link allows readers to view the crystal structuresin three dimensions for a richer appreciation of...