Guide to Rocks and Minerals of Illinois

Illinois sits on nearly 500 million years of geological history, from the ancient seas that covered the Midwest to the glaciers that sculpted its modern landscape. This practical guide, produced by the state's premier geological survey, helps readers identify more than 100 rocks and minerals found across Illinois. Each entry includes physical characteristics, formation processes, and where in the state each specimen is likely to be found. Black-and-white photographs and line drawings accompany the entries, making field identification straightforward. The book also provides background on Illinois's geological periods and explains how to start a mineral collection responsibly. Whether you're a student, teacher, or weekend rockhound, this guide opens a door into the ancient past written in stone beneath your feet.