Customer Reviews

Cave Minerals of the World

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Cave Minerals of the World (Second edition) is a must read for spelunkers, and amateur and professional mineralogists and geologists. It will also be of great value to owners and operators of commercial caves throughout the world, giving all non-scientists a greater understanding and appreciation for the how and why of cave minerals formations.

The text starts with descriptions and color photographs of 38 morphological types of cave growths. Following the first 117 pages, the authors present descriptions of some 247 minerals that are conveniently grouped as in a mineralogy text by their chemistry. After these descriptions, profusely illustrated with color photographs, are descriptions of 9 organicminerals. Next is a chapter on related forms running the gamut from lava formations to guano-fire minerals. There is a lengthy section of special topics related to the mineralogy of speleothems from their crystallography, color, luminescence, mono and macro crystallinity, microclimate of formation, dating and other interesting subjects. The text is topped off by the authors picks of the top 10 caves in the world with multi-page articles about each cave. A handy glossary, lengthy bibliography, and useful index round out the publication.

This is the one complete treatment of caves and their minerals from the standpoint of the environment necessary for any given mineral to form. The explanations of the various types of speleothems and their growth mechanisms are clear and understandable to both professional and layman.

This book presents a great value for its moderate price of and brings together information otherwise scattered throughout the literature. Its attractive cover, small coffee table dimensions, and high quality paper and graphics makes it a standout in value. Once examined, this publication will become a much used reference text.

My recommendation is a strong buy!

If you are interested in minerals, either as a hobby or as a professional, and you do not have this book in your library, you are missing out on the most comprehensive coverage of minerals that occur in the cave environment. I highly recommend this book, color pictures are lavish and plentiful, discussion is directed towards the interested layperson but with enough meat for a professional to learn and enjoy!

I actually don't own this book (yet), but I have borrowed it from my boss. I'm a cave tour guide and geology student, so I may be a little biased, but I must say this is the best book I've ever read. The text is clear and thorough, the pictures perfect, and organization superb. This has to be the best book on cave formations, and is a must buy.