From Stone to Star

This book offers an insightful exploration of Earth's geological history, revealing how isotopic analysis has reshaped our understanding of the planet's origins, as detailed in From Stone to Star.

In From Stone to Star, the renowned geochemist Claude Allègre takes readers on a remarkable journey through one of the most significant scientific adventures of our era. This engaging narrative delves into the sophisticated isotopic detective work that has led to the establishment of a comprehensive geologic chronology of the Earth. Allègre's exploration not only sheds light on the planet's genesis but also transforms our understanding of its intricate history.

The book traces the evolution of geological thought from the eighteenth and nineteenth centuries, when early geologists collected fossils and debated the origins of layered rocks. It highlights how the advent of seismology shifted the focus from surface studies to the Earth’s deep interior. Advances in laboratory technology, particularly in high-resolution mass spectrometry, have allowed scientists to probe the very essence of atoms, thereby revolutionizing our knowledge of the Earth and the solar system.

From Stone to Star is an accessible account that invites readers to appreciate the thrill of modern scientific discovery. Allègre's firsthand experience as a project scientist during interplanetary missions adds depth to the narrative. He adeptly avoids technical jargon, making complex concepts understandable. Through his clear and passionate writing, readers gain a superb introduction to the methods, theories, and history of contemporary geology, ultimately revealing how even a tiny meteorite can unlock vast knowledge about our planet and beyond.