Nevada has been blessed by nature with an extraordinary diversity of minerals, some first discovered within the state, some unique to Nevada, and some the focus of human exploitation since the Anasazi mined turquoise and salt in the southern part of the state more than a thousand years ago. Gold and silver deposits spurred most of the settlement in Nevada in the nineteenth century; subsequently, minerals of many kinds have continued to bring wealth to the state. Modern, high-tech mining of gold deposits, such as those along the Carlin trend, constitutes a mining boom that has surpassed the state's previous mineral production. "Minerals of Nevada is the first synoptic catalog of Nevada minerals, listing every mineral found in the state along with the places where each occurs. But the book is far more than a compendium. Included are engaging essays by several distinguished scientists and collectors that offer a geologic history of Nevada; a history of mining and mineral study in the state; descriptions of significant mineral-deposit types and mining districts; essays on meteorites, gemstones, and minerals first found in Nevada; and some tips for collectors. The book is lavishly illustrated with color photographs by Jeff Scovil, Sugar White, and others. A foldout map showing mining districts and important mineral occurrences is also included. As comprehensive survey of Nevada's mineral occurrences, "Minerals of Nevada is an essential reference for geologist, mineral researchers, prospectors, and collectors. It is also recommended for any reader interested in the natural resource basis for one of Nevada's major industries.
