Agates: Treasures of the Earth is the first popular guide to agates. It is fully illustrated throughout with photographs of wonderfully colourful minerals, accompanied by text from a well-known expert in the field. The book includes both a detailed introduction to the geology of agates and a comprehensive guide to agates of the world.
A multitude of colourful names - landscape onyx, thunder eggs, moss agate, flame agate and wave onyx - all describe agate in its many different forms. Beloved by the Ancient Sumerians, Egyptians and Romans, it is highly valued today for use in jewellery, sculpture and technology. It's very popular among collectors, due to its wide distribution and stunning visual appeal.
Created within volcanic lava, some agate dates back 545 million years. It forms within cavities in the rock, taking on distinctive shapes and colours all over the world according to local geology. Although it is relatively easily available, rare and high-quality specimens are highly sought-after.
This is an indispensable resource for anyone with a fascination for agates, from amateur collectors to gemmologists. It is both an up-to-date reference source and an accessible introduction to the life of agates.
Published by the Natural History Museum.
Key features
First popular guide to agates
Comprehensive worldwide listing
Stunning colour photographs on every page
About the author
Roger Pabian is a highly respected agates specialist and palaeontologist, recently retired from the University of Nebraska-Lincoln after 35 years service.
