Mineralogy and Geology: A Journey Through the Mineral Kingdom
Minerals: From Cosmos to Crystal is a mineralogy and geology book that explores the mineral kingdom from an unusually broad perspective. It traces the story of minerals from the origin of the elements in the universe. From there, it follows their journey to the formation of crystals on Earth. At its heart, however, this is a book about minerals—their origins, diversity, and crystal forms. It examines their physical properties, geologic environments, and the processes that have shaped them throughout Earth’s history.
The book places minerals within the larger framework of cosmology, astronomy, geology, mineralogy, chemistry, crystallography, and planetary evolution. Together, these fields reveal the many connections that make the mineral kingdom such a fascinating and integral part of the natural world. Along the way, it examines hundreds of mineral species and specimens, their crystal forms, geologic environments, and historical significance, inviting readers to see familiar minerals in a broader and more meaningful context.
Richly illustrated throughout, the book brings together mineral photography, scientific insight, and the history of the natural world to reveal the remarkable connections between the universe, the Earth, and the minerals we study, collect, and admire today.
From Cosmic Origins to Crystal Formation
First, the book traces a continuous scientific story from the origin of the chemical elements to the formation of crystals on Earth. It begins with the cosmological setting in which the elements were created. Next, it moves through planetary formation, geology, mineralogy, crystallography, and the environments in which minerals develop. Along the way, hundreds of mineral species and specimens show how chemistry, structure, geologic processes, and time combine to produce the mineral kingdom. Finally, the discussion places minerals within the larger history of Earth and the universe. The book is intended for mineral collectors, students, educators, libraries, museums, and readers seeking a broader understanding of minerals.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Mitchell P. Abel (Mitch Abel) has collected and studied minerals from around the world for more than 50 years. With a background in computer science, telecommunications, and aerospace engineering, he brings a broad scientific perspective to his lifelong interest in the mineral kingdom.
He is the author of Minerals: From Cosmos to Crystal, a richly illustrated exploration connecting the origins of the chemical elements with Earth’s geological evolution and the extraordinary diversity of minerals.
PUBLICATION DETAILS
Publisher: Natural Order Press
Author: Mitchell P. Abel (also known as Mitch Abel)
ISBN-13: 979-8-9946887-1-7
Format: Hardcover
Publication Date: July 16, 2026