An excellent guide to the properties and use of crystals, written in simple clear language, so no esoteric knowledge is necessary to understand how to select and prepare the right crystals and how to benefit from them.
Part One (Gates Of Stone) discusses the archaeological processes in the formation of stones and gives a history of mankind's use of gems and crystals. It also gives directions for choosing and cleansing your stones.
Part Two (Stones And Their Powers) provides classifications of stones according to their degree of hardness and explains the carat weight, whilst also explaining the distinction between talismans and amulets.
The list of stones from A - Z makes up the main body of the book. Each stone is discussed by its hardness, color/s, sources, history and folklore, healing energies, magical powers and magical uses. This is very interesting and informative.
Part Three (Other Uses For Stone Magic) includes information on practical spell-magic with stones, sounds and crystals with the use of tuning forks, chakra alignment, stone pendulums and wands, changing the vibrations of your dwelling place, crystals and light, using crystals with star webs and mandalas, stone bead crafts, stone divination, scrying with stones and stone patterns for healing.
There are also tables of correspondence indicating the appropriate crystals for the seasons, for the zodiac, the birth month, weekdays, wedding anniversaries and one for angels, planets, days and seasons together. The book concludes with a list of other names for certain stones, a glossary of technical terms, an extensive bibliography and an index.
Although the book lacks illustrations or photographs, it is a valuable reference work and a very engaging read offering useful practical information. I also recommend The Crystal Bible by Judy Hall and Love Is In The Earth by Melody.