I bought this book for a "junior-gemologist" that is 9 years old... and it instantly became his FAVORITE book on gems and gemology. He showed it to a neighbor that is 90 and had collected gems for 60+ years.
The 90 year old asked me to find a copy of the book for him... he thought it was THAT good!
Only a DK book can entertain from 9-to-90! This one is FULL of glorious photography and intelligent information... all in one affordable book.
I am a Graduate Gemologist, trained by the world-renowned Gemological Institute of America (GIA), and I highly recommend this DK book... great for all "junior-gemologists"... whether they're 9 or 90!
Good little pocket book for the novice rock hound, helps identify what you found, it dosnt replace an expert but they are harder to find and don fit in your day pack. really all in all this is a good guide with good descriptions and pictures and is worth carrying