Although the emphasis in this pamphlet has been on the recognition of
Missouri rocks and minerals, it is not out of order to consider the
broad values that they contribute to our civilization. Their use as
building materials has been noted, but it should be further recognized
that as our timber is being rapidly depleted more and more structures
will be built out of earth materials. Missouri possesses a wealth of
beautiful limestone that is serviceable and readily quarried. Where
limestone is not near, there is usually shale or glacial clay which can
be used in the manufacture of brick and tile. Permanency will be the
keynote of the rock and ceramic structures. Gravel and sand are abundant
in Missouri for concrete and other varied uses.
The soil is Missouri’s most valuable earth material. Hundreds to
thousands of years of normal weathering are required to develop the
rocks and minerals and texture of the inorganic fraction of the soil. We
should preserve it and prevent disastrous soil erosion.
Aside from these more tangible values, a fascinating and instructive
hobby can be made of collecting, arranging, and studying rocks and
minerals. One gains a fuller understanding and appreciation of nature
from their study. The orderliness, constancy, and interrelation within
the rock and mineral “world” is a restful contrast to the one which man
often keeps in turmoil. The beauty of a glistening crystal or a polished
mineral or stone is as inspiring as a lovely flower, yet it lasts and
lasts through centuries, a veritable “rock of ages.”