Geoplex: A Guide to Field Associations of Rocks, Minerals, Forms, and Fossils

Adding an alternative perspective to standard field guides, GEOPLEX employs a computer-generated map of field associations of more than 1800 mineral varieties, rocks, fossils, ore deposits, bodies of water, and geological formations. The associations are built upon a model incorporating more than 180 features, including global tectonic zones, 2 ½ billion years of Earth history, ocean formation depth, and latitudinal range, along with geochemistry, erosion history, climate, and the physical traits of the objects themselves. Emergent map zones depict such familiar and recognizable forms as pegmatite, skarn, thermal springs, accretion terrain, karst, banded iron formations, and fossil habitats ranging from ancient coral reefs to Tertiary grassland. Over 100 field photographs and a virtual tour add to the utility of this compact guide.