Includes index.

"Supports the Common Core state standards"--Cover.

What is a crystal? -- A world of crystals -- Natural beauty -- On the surface -- Inside crystals -- Crystal color -- Identification -- Natural growth -- Good habits -- Extraction -- Growing crystals -- Crystals at work -- Good vibtrations -- Quartz -- Diamond -- Corundum -- Beryl -- Opal -- Other gemstones -- Collector's items -- Stones for carving -- Precious metals -- Organic gems -- What is it worth? -- Cutting gems -- Lore and legend -- At home -- Did you know? -- Identifying gemstones -- Find out more.

Describes the basic shapes of crystals and other aspects of crystallography, including how they form in nature, how crystals are studied and identified, what gives them their amazing color, and how they are used in everyday life.