Mineral identification

Science

Definition

Mineral identification is the process of determining a mineral's identity using physical properties such as hardness, luster, streak, cleavage, fracture, color, and crystal structure. Mohs hardness scale ranks minerals from 1 (talc) to 10 (diamond).

How It Works

  1. Observe the mineral's color and luster (metallic vs. nonmetallic).
  2. Test the streak by rubbing the mineral on a porcelain plate.
  3. Determine hardness using Mohs scale by scratching against known minerals.
  4. Examine cleavage or fracture patterns.
  5. Check for special properties like magnetism, acid reaction, or fluorescence.

Examples

  • Quartz identified by its glassy luster, hardness of 7, and conchoidal fracture
  • Calcite fizzing when exposed to dilute hydrochloric acid
  • Magnetite being attracted to a magnet
Key Fact

Mohs hardness scale: 1-Talc, 2-Gypsum, 3-Calcite, 4-Fluorite, 5-Apatite, 6-Feldspar, 7-Quartz, 8-Topaz, 9-Corundum, 10-Diamond.

Related Terms

Igneous sedimentary metamorphic Rock cycle

Study This Concept

Practice mineral identification with free review games in these units:

Earth Science Unit 1: Minerals and Rocks