The Common Rocks and Minerals of Missouri

This handy guide invites anyone who’s ever turned a stone over in a field or pocketed a glittering crystal on a hike to learn what they’ve found. Filled with clear photographs and concise descriptions, it covers the most common rocks and minerals that surface across Missouri, from familiar shales and sandstones to the more striking hematite and gypsum. The author explains how each specimen forms, why it looks the way it does, and what, if any, practical value it might hold, all in plain language that requires no prior geological training.

A standout feature is the step‑by‑step determinative key, which lets readers match their own samples by testing simple properties like hardness, streak, and texture. By following the key, a collector can quickly narrow down possibilities and then confirm the identity with the accompanying images. Whether you’re a curious hobbyist, a teacher looking for a classroom resource, or a seasoned field enthusiast, this booklet makes identifying Missouri’s geological treasures both easy and enjoyable.