With enough background to be rigorous, yet not exhaustive, this book offers good preparation in the techniques of modern petrology; a clear and organized review of the classification, textures, and approach to petrologic study; and applies these concepts to the real occurrences of the rocks themselves. The goal throughout is for readers to be able to apply the techniques—and enjoy the insights of the results—rather than tinker with theory and develop everything from first principles. A survey of actual occurrences of igneous and metamorphic rocks, and processes that produce them, is provided. This section is often greatly condensed in most other books, but it is the most interesting and dynamic aspect of petrology.

Some Fundamental Concepts ; Classification and Nomenclature of Igneous Rocks; Textures of Igneous Rocks; Igneous Structures and Field Relationships; An Introduction to Thermodynamics; The Phase Rule and One- and Two-Component Systems; Systems with More than Two Components; Chemical Petrology I: Major and Minor Elements; Chemical Petrology II: Trace Elements and Isotopes; Generation of Basaltic Magmas; Magma Diversity; Layered Mafic Intrusions; Mid-Ocean Ridge Volcanism; Oceanic Intraplate Volcanism; Continental Flood Basalts; Subduction-Related Igneous Activity Part I: Island Arcs; Subduction-Related Igneous Activity Part II: Continental Arcs; Granitoid Rocks; Continental Alkaline Magmatism; Anorthosites; An Introduction to Metamorphism; A Classification of Metamorphic Rocks; Structures and Textures of Metamorphic Rocks; Stable Mineral Assemblages in Metamorphic Rocks; Metamorphic Facies and Metamorphosed Mafic Rocks; Metamorphic Reactions; Thermodynamics of Metamorphic Reactions; Metamorphism of Pelitic Sediments; Metamorphism of Calcareous and Ultramafic Rocks; Metamorphic Fluids, Mass Transport and Metasomatism; Units and Constants; Abbreviations and Acronyms; The CIPW Norm.

A useful reference for anyone who wants to learn more about petrology.