The Rockhound's Handbook

The Rockhound's Handbook by James R. Mitchell. Gem Guide Books Co., 2008.

From the publisher:

Revised and expanded 2E of this popular reference guide for rockhounds and collectors of rocks, minerals and fossils. Includes expanded sections on basic geology and mineral formation; how to find and identify minerals in the field; collecting tools and techniques; finding gold and other heavy minerals; fossil formatiion and collecting fossils; the legal aspects of collecting; specimen preparation and display and the basics of lapidary and jewelry making. Illustrated throughout with photos, diagrams and charts; features 16-page color insert of over 90 specimens; extensive glossary; lists of government agencies and museums and much more. An indispensable how-to book for beginners and a handy reference guide for experienced collectors.