About the author
Robert J. Lauf is the author of a series of mineral collector's guides published by Schiffer Publishing, covering groups including zeolites, garnets, quartz and other silica minerals, tourmaline, pyroxene, and silicate crystal structures more broadly. Each volume is organized around photographs — typically over a hundred per book — showing specimens in their geological context, alongside diagrams explaining crystal structure and formation, and notes on notable collecting localities worldwide. The Collector's Guide to Silicate Crystal Structures functions as something of an introductory volume, covering crystallography basics and the classification system used across the series. Taken together the books form a reference set for mineral collectors and gemologists rather than a general-interest introduction, and their level of structural and chemical detail assumes some existing familiarity with mineralogy. Lauf's books are cataloged among the esoteric and occult-philosophy sections of some booksellers alongside their scientific mineralogical audience.
📖 Where to start with Robert J Lauf
💬 What our editors say about Robert J Lauf's books
“This book is a dense, scientifically inclined exploration of zeolites that may overwhelm readers seeking purely mystical or superficial crystal lore. It does not suit those looking for simple healing recipes or vague spiritual…”
Esoterica Books editorial team, Occult literature desk · on Collector's Guide to the Zeolite Group Lauf, Robert J
“This guide excels as a comprehensive technical resource for those dedicated to the scientific study of tourmalines, offering detailed insights into pegmatite formation and mineralogical classification. However, it is not suited…”
Esoterica Books editorial team, Occult literature desk · on Collector's Guide to the Tourmaline Group Lauf, Robert J
“Lauf’s volume is a robust scientific treatise that may overwhelm readers seeking light reading or purely metaphysical interpretations. It demands patience for its detailed exploration of geochemistry and mineral taxonomy, making…”
Esoterica Books editorial team, Occult literature desk · on Collector's Guide to the Beryl Group Lauf, Robert J
📋 Editions by Robert J Lauf in the catalog
| Edition | Year | Publisher | Pages | ISBN |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Collector's Guide to the Zeolite Group Lauf, Robert J | 2014 | Schiffer Publishing | 112 | 9780764346750 |
| Collector's Guide to the Tourmaline Group Lauf, Robert J | 2011 | Schiffer Publishing | 96 | 9780764337758 |
| Collector's Guide to the Beryl Group Lauf, Robert J | — | Schiffer Publishing | 96 | 9780764338786 |
| Collector's Guide to the Axinite Group Lauf, Robert J | — | Schiffer Publishing | 96 | 9780764332166 |
| Collector's Guide to Quartz and Other Silica Minerals | 2012 | Schiffer Publishing | 96 | 9780764341618 |
| The Collector's Guide to Silicate Crystal Structures Lauf, Rober | 2010 | Schiffer Publishing | 96 | 9780764335792 |
| Collector's Guide to the Pyroxene Group Lauf, Robert J | 2009 | Schiffer Publishing | 96 | 9780764334047 |
| Collector's Guide to the Three Phases of Titania: Rutile, Anatas | — | Schiffer Publishing | 96 | 9780764332685 |
| Collector's Guide to the Vesuvianite Group Lauf, Robert J | — | Schiffer Publishing | 96 | 9780764332159 |
| Collector's Guide to the Garnet Group | 2012 | Schiffer Publishing | 96 | 9780764340031 |
