Eyewitness Crystal and Gem

From the rarest crystal to the most common stone, gems from around the world are revealed in dazzling detail in this illustrated guide. 

Become an eyewitness to the many different varieties of crystals and gems in this picture-led reference guide that will take you on a visual tour of the world of precious stones. Children will be mesmerized by the many uses of rocks like quartz and understanding crystals – from dazzling jewellery to diamond cutting tools and the silicon chip in their phone.

This illustrated guide for kids aged 9+ reveals what exactly crystals and gems are, how they’re formed, how to identify them, and how they can be used in everything from microchips to jewelry making.

Throughout the pages of this newly-revised book on precious stones, you can expect to find: 

- A fresh new look; new photographs, updated information, and a new "eyewitness" feature.
- Amazing facts, updated diagrams, statistics, and timelines.
- Brand new eyewitness accounts from experts in the field.

Eyewitness Crystal & Gem features striking full-color photographs of beautiful stones, including pearl and shell, jet and amber, quartz crystals, precious metals gemstones and much more! 

In this guide, curious children can find the answers to questions like, how can a rough diamond become a show-stopping centerpiece? Where does labradorite get its colors? Why are there quartz crystals in clocks and watches? How can crystals be grown in a laboratory? 

So, what’s new? 

Part of DK’s best-selling Eyewitness series, this popular title has been reinvigorated for the next generation of information-seekers and stay-at-home explorers, with a fresh new look, up to 20 percent new images, including photography and updated diagrams, updated information, and a new "eyewitness" feature with fascinating first-hand accounts from experts in the field.

Explore the series!

Globally, the Eyewitness series has sold more than 50 million copies over 30 years. Travel through the solar system with Eyewitness Space, discover the incredible world of creepy-crawlies in Eyewitness Insect, or take a trip aboard the most famous ship in history with Eyewitness Titanic.

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Standard and Primary covers are widely available through general retailers. They often have higher print runs and can be cheaper, especially during sales.

In contrast, Direct Market (DM) and variant covers are primarily sold in comic shops. DM editions tend to have more limited availability and may be more valuable to collectors.

The main differences lie in artwork style, availability, price, and collector appeal. Ultimately, the choice between standard and variant covers depends on personal preference, budget, and individual collecting goals.

Comic book enthusiasts have various formats to choose from when collecting their favorite stories.
Here's a brief overview of the main types:

Omnibus

• Large, hardcover collections
• Usually contain complete runs or extensive story arcs
• Typically 800-1000+ pages
• Higher price point, often €100-€150

Oversized Hardcover (OHC)

• Similar dimensions to omnibus, but thinner
• Collect shorter runs or story arcs
• Usually 300-600 pages
• Priced between €30-€50

Hardcover (HC)

• Standard-sized hardcover books
• Collect 6-12 issues typically
• Similar dimensions to single issues, but with a hard cover
• Priced around €25-€35

Trade Paperback (TP)

• Softcover collections
• Standard comic book size
• Usually collect 4-6 issues
• Most affordable option, typically €15-€25

Other Formats

• Absolute Editions: Oversized, deluxe hardcovers (mainly DC Comics)
• Compendiums: Massive paperback collections
• Graphic Novels (OGN/GN): Original stories not previously released as single issues

The choice between these formats often depends on personal preference, budget, and collecting goals. Omnibus and OHC editions offer larger artwork and more content but at a higher price, while TPs provide a more affordable way to collect complete story arcs