National Audubon Society Field Guide to North American Rocks and Minerals, various authors, Alfred A. Knopf, New York.  Excellent guide for use in the field, for identification, and geological information.  Also recommended: National Audubon Field Guide to Fossils.

Minerals, Dr. Rupert Hochleitner, Barron's, New York. Outlines basic properties of stones: hardness, crystal composition, streak and color.  Provides an introductory to collecting and identifying minerals.  Beautiful, large color photographs.  Author is mineralogist and editor of the German mineralogy journal Lapis.

Love Is In The Earth, A Kaleidoscope of Crystals, Melody,  Earth-Love Publishing House, Colorado.  This is a MUST for anyone interested in the metaphysical properties of stones! The most comprehensive book on the subject, in simple "dictionary" format.  I have yet to see any other publication even come close to Melody's inspiration and tireless devotion to this subject!

Gem Hunters Atlas, Cyril and Bob Johnson, Cy Johnson & Son Book Distributers, California.  There are a series of these books covering field maps to every area of the U.S.  This book may be a little difficult to find, I suggest checking your local rock shop.  It is a great source for the rock-hound....if you like to dig your own rocks, you'll love this book!  I have had success and a lot of fun with this book! I suggest keeping it in your glovebox in the car, so whenever you are on the road on vacation, you can do some rock hunting, too!

Science Nature Guides: Fossils of the World, Chris Pellant, Thunder Bay Press, California.
Eyewitness Books: Crystal & Gem, Drs. Symes and Harding, Alfred A. Knopf, New York.
The two above books are highly recommended children's reading, and even adults will be surprised to learn something themselves!  They include accurate scientific information with great pictures, tips on rock & fossil hunting and collecting, and interesting trivia!