Southern Africa has some of the most ancient rocks on Earth and is home to many spectacular and important minerals and gemstones. Minerals & Gemstones of Southern Africa documents the interesting and relevant mineral occurrences in South Africa, Namibia, Botswana, Eswatini, Lesotho, southern Mozambique, and Zimbabwe. Fully updated with spectacular photographs, new distribution records, and an appealing larger format, this new edition of Minerals & Gemstones of Southern Africa features:
- An introduction to the geology of the region, including a map depicting the major rock formations
- Detailed descriptions of minerals, including their gemological properties, occurrence, and uses
- Multiple full-colour photographs of each mineral
This guide is an invaluable reference for collectors, gemologists, students, and anyone with an interest in the earth sciences.
Bruce Cairncross is Professor of Geology and Chairman of the Geology Department at the University of Johannesburg. He has a special interest in documenting and preserving southern Africa’s mineralogical heritage, and is the author or co-author of a number of books, including Field Guide to Rocks & Minerals of Southern Africa and Pocket Guide: Rocks & Minerals of Southern Africa.
"Visually and functionally appealing [...] A handy little tome for professional geologists and weeked rock hounds.[...] Its 500-plus color photographs and thorough entries are accessible to the layperson, without sacrificing useful information for the professional."
– American Reference Books Annual