The Rockhounding Encyclopedia: The Gem Hunter’s Guide to Identifying and Collecting Over 100 Unique Gemstones, Minerals, Fossils & Geodes | Featuring America’s Top 500 Rockhounding Sites Paperback – October 19, 2023

I found this book entertaining and informative. It provides a nice balance of information on how to identify various rocks, their characteristics, and where they are commonly found. Photos of rocks are included, along with a little history of how some rocks are used in industry.For people like me who are only slightly versed in the study of geology, it was interesting to read about how the rocks were formed. In Chapter 9 there was an explanation of how this can be relevant when out in the field looking for interesting rocks. By having an understanding of how they are formed, you can take a step back, evaluate the surroundings, and identify possible locations for the various types of rocks.Chapter 11 includes information on a state-by-state basis on what type of rocks can be found. GPS location information is also included. The last chapter in the book includes a helpful discussion on tools and safety items that you should have with you when rockhounding.The author commented that 'Rockhounding is more than a hobby - it's a journey of the heart and mind', and 'Rockinhounding is the thrill of the hunt and the adventure'! I agree :-)

This is a great rockhound book to have on hand!What I like about this book are the clear beautiful illustrated pictures and descriptions of rocks. Other books I’ve looked at had distorted pictures, but not this one!The rocks or minerals are listed alphabetically which makes finding the description you need quick and easy. You will also find information describing where you are likely to make a find.Whether a beginning rock collector or an experienced one, you won’t regret this purchase!Even though I had a chance to preview an online version of this book for free, I like it so much that I will be adding a hard copy to my library.

I am a professed rockhound, but even if you are not one, recommend this book as it is very informative. The descriptions, pictures and where each type of rock can be found was explained and included interesting information to know. The author also tells some interesting facts about the low and high quality to look for if you are interested or just looking to purchase a finished stone for jewelry etc. I especially liked the state-by-state listing of what can be found and where they are, even listing the specific longitudinal directions for each spot. This is a well written, easy to understand and read book. I will be using it as a resource for my next rock hunting adventure.

Some great information in this book I think it would be a lot of help out in the field while looking for new rocks.

I truly enjoyed reading this book The Rockhounding Encyclopedia. Like most other rockhounds I know, I have several books on my shelf already. So, why buy this book, too? What makes this book a standout, is the ease with which it reads. There are a few chapters at the beginning, giving overviews and history - but it's not at all cumbersome like some of my other books which are more appropriate to a geologist. Now as I find rocks and/or gems, this book will make it so much easier to identify what I have, and categorize them properly in my collection. Well done, author Daniel Zanatta!

Jackson Davis! You have outdone yourself. When I was in grade school, rocks were rocks, we kick and throw them. NOW, after reading your book, I have a new hobby and love. Your book is EVERYTHING I wanted and didn't know. You gave us colors, the histories and even locations both USA and internationally (with the coordinates) where to find gems. The pictures are so bright and vivid. I'm excited about my new love and adventures. Thanks for making my journey easier, but writing a wonderful book.

This book shows you rocks, and some info about them. So that’s cool. However, when I flipped to the back to the “Best Rockhounding Sites in the US” section and saw that it listed Lambert’s Cafe in Sikeston Missouri as a place to find fossils and shark teeth, I suddenly lost confidence in the text on these pages. They throw rolls at you while you sit in oversized church pews. There’s a 50 cent claw machine where you can get those mini rubber duckies but no fossils or shark teeth that I’ve ever seen

Great book with lots of great information