Fascinating Mineralogy

A classic of popular science literature, academician A. E. Fersman invites you to see the planet through the eyes of a mineralogist – from crystals on the windowsill to diamond pipes, mines, and meteorites. In the book – the birth of stone, the growth of crystals, precious and technical minerals, "stone at the service of man," field observations and home experiments: you will understand how to find, recognize, and wisely collect minerals.

- Where to look for minerals in nature, cities, and museums – and how to immediately distinguish them by key signs?

- Why do stones shine and come in different colors and shapes?

- Where do diamonds, quartz, salt, marble come from – how do "gemstones" differ from technical stones?

- What do meteorites, lava, and sediments tell us about the Earth's past?

- How to collect and arrange a collection, store samples, and grow your own crystals?

The book is suitable for schoolchildren and students, parents and teachers, club leaders, young collectors, and all nature lovers. Clear exposition, convincing examples, and the logic of field observations will turn curiosity into a lasting interest in the world of stone and provide working tools for lessons, excursions, and home projects.