How to Know the Minerals and Rocks

The book is in fair condition, with noticeable wear on the spine and edges. The cover shows some scuffing and minor stains. Library markings are present, indicating it was once part of a library collection. There is no dust jacket, and the binding remains intact, though signs of age and handling are evident. Handwritten notations are visible on the preface page.

"How to Know the Minerals and Rocks" by Richard M. Pearl, published by McGraw-Hill Book Company in 1955, is a comprehensive field guide designed for both laymen and amateur collectors. This fifth printing edition is an authoritative source that simplifies the identification of over 125 key minerals and rocks, including gems and meteorites. Pearl, a respected geologist from Colorado College, crafted this work to assist collectors, prospectors, and scientists in recognizing mineral specimens with ease. The book's unique features include the Four Keys to Recognizing Rocks and the Seven Keys to Recognizing Minerals, making it a valuable resource for hobbyists and professionals alike. This edition, while not a first, remains a sought-after guide in the field of geology. The condition shows typical wear for a library copy, with visible markings and some shelf wear.