The Anthropology of Precious Minerals

"Collectively, the processes of mineral valuation and circulation of precious minerals illustrate that ‘preciousness’ should be defined relative to complex and dynamic cultural, political-economic, and semiotic value systems. Compelling, thoughtful analyses of affect and materiality."

C. C. Kolb, independent scholar, CHOICE

"The Anthropology of Precious Minerals highlights the fluid entanglements between humans and precious minerals. In doing this, the editors draw from history, archaeology, and contemporary ethnography, while several of the contributing authors draw from literary works in such ways that obscure the boundaries between the material and immaterial."

Nicole Smith, Department of Mining Engineering, Colorado School of Mines

"With distinct chapters, this volume conveys the dynamic and complex processes of valuation and circulation of precious minerals. I very much enjoyed this breadth. It illustrated the fascinating questions that arise in diverse but related instances."

Mette M. High, Department of Social Anthropology, University of St Andrews

"Sophisticated and fascinating, The Anthropology of Precious Minerals makes valuable contributions to several key theoretical issues in contemporary anthropology, and features notable scholarship and excellent prose."

Anne Meneley, Department of Anthropology, Trent University