The first field guide that allows amateur rock enthusiasts to identify basic rocks and rock formations in a systematic way

Many of us are fascinated by rocks-but identifying them can seem daunting. It's often tricky even for geologists, who rely on experience, intuition, and in-depth familiarity with rock-forming components. Rocks and Rock Formations allows everyone, amateur or professional, to successfully distinguish these amazing masses of minerals, using only careful observation, a magnifying glass, a pocket knife-and a bit of patience.

Jurg Meyer provides a structured approach to the identification of all rocks within the three groups: sedimentary, igneous, and metamorphic. Bringing together more than 530 diagrams and photographs to illustrate essential characteristics, Meyer highlights some basics on rocks-their mineral constituents, structures, textures, fossils, weathering patterns, and more-which are important for a determination. The main part of the book is a handy and thorough identification key, which takes into account all possible rock variations, mixtures, and structural differences. The concluding section of the guide delves into rock systematics.

Assuming little prior experience or knowledge, Rocks and Rock Formations is an invaluable resource for rock enthusiasts everywhere.

• Suitable for beginners and amateurs
• Helpful, systematic identification key
• Exploration of all types of rocks
• More than 530 diagrams and photographs

About the Author
Jurg Meyer is a professional geologist and licensed mountain guide, as well as lecturer and author in the areas of geology and the environment. He lives in Switzerland.

Reviews
"This is an ambitious little field guide, which aims to allow amateurs to identify basic rocks and rock formations, for the first time, in a systematic way."---Jon Trevelyan, Deposits Magazine
"The book . . . gives any amateur geologist a genuine opportunity to identify rock types out in the field."---David Swales, British Naturalists Association



Book Information
ISBN 9780691199528
Author Jurg Meyer
Format Paperback
Page Count 192
Imprint Princeton University Press
Publisher Princeton University Press