Introduction to Mineralogy, Third Edition, consolidates much of the material now covered in traditional mineralogy and optical mineralogy courses and focuses on describing minerals within their geologic context. Presenting the important traditional content of mineralogy - including crystallography, chemical bonding, controls on mineral structure, mineral stability, and crystal growth - it provides students with a foundation for understanding the nature and occurrence of minerals.

\"Introduction to Mineralogy, Third Edition, combines incredibly helpful optical data on minerals with the classic information of a mineralogy textbook. Nesse has done a masterful job creating what I think is hands down the best reference for optical characteristics. I view this book as a text for my students and as a future reference for them in their work as geologists.\" --Dori Farthing, State University of New York at Geneseo

\"The major concepts are covered well and the additional details provide an extended challenge for those students who are particularly interested or have the right background to truly grasp the more complex concepts. This is really one of the best textbooks I have used for any of the courses I have taught.\" --Rachel L. Walters, University of Florida