Monday, September 5, 2011

Gift Ideas For A Geologist

Geologist spend a great amount of time doing field work.


Geologists are scientists who study the earth for the purposes of understanding its history and structure. Geologists specialize in a wide range of fields, from studying volcanic eruptions to soil formation. Other concentrations include earthquakes, climate change, marine geology and sedimentary rocks. Becoming a geologist requires dedication and extensive knowledge in areas such as chemistry and biology. Give geologists gifts that will reward them for their hard work and also aid them in their career.


Field Tools


As a gift, replace a geologist's worn field tools or add to his collection. Available in different weights, a rock hammer -- also called a geologist's hammer -- along with a rock chisel splits and breaks rocks. A vital tool for geologists, hand lenses allow close examination of rocks and minerals. Since geologists often depend on maps, give a geologist a GPS device or compass. Other items that aid geologists in the field include a digital camera, waterproof field notebook, brushes, a tape measure and a first aid kit.


Books


Expand a geologist's knowledge with books relating to geology. Help a geologist learn more about the geology of her favorite state or state of residence with a book from the "Roadside Geology" series, which describes the geology of each state. Other books that aid geologists include atlases, mineral and rock identification books and desert guides. You can also give a biography about a notable geologist such as George Frederick Wright or Charles Lyell.


Magazine Subscription


For a year-round gift, buy a geologist a subscription to a geology focused magazine or journal. Published by the American Geological Institute, Earth Magazine, formerly Geotimes, covers everything related to the geosciences including news and politics. Another notable publication, Geology, is a journal published by the Geological Society of America and offers original and compelling research articles. A third option is Geological Magazine, which publishes discussions and scientific papers relating to the geosciences including palaeontology and geochemistry.


Rocks and Minerals


Since geologist spend their time studying the earth, consider natural gifts such as rocks and minerals. You can buy such items at a gemstone shop or from a dealer. Geologists can use minerals carved into shapes such as animals, worry stones, eggs, spheres and hearts as decorative items or even paper weights. You can also purchase or hand-make stone pendents or other jewelry made with precious stones. Other gift options include petrified wood, fossils, raw crystals or rare rocks and minerals.







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