The Planet in a Pebble

Pebbles can provide a microcosm of the Earth's history and geology. In this instance, the pebble in question is one of Welsh slate, which has a particular story to tell, extending back to the very formation of the Earth and beyond. The author chooses thirteen paths that can be taken by the pebble passing through the ages of time. Then there is the composition of the pebble, the history of the atoms that constitute it and the various states through which it has passed. This particular pebble also contains quartz and more exotic minerals. It has been subject to various forces and has spent eons in the sea before being washed up onto the beach. An engaging way of finding out about our geological history.