To identify your rock, examine its characteristics and qualities. Consider these key features to help you determine what type of rock it is.
1) What is the color of your rock or mineral?
Rocks and minerals are made up of various materials and can be found in a wide range of colors. However, it’s important to consider where the rock was found, as factors like weathering and contact with other substances can alter their color. While color can be a helpful clue in identifying rocks, it’s not the most reliable method.
2) Is your rock or mineral smooth, bumpy, or rough?
These are terms you might use to describe the texture of a rock. Some rocks, like pumice, have a rough surface and are full of holes.
3) Is your rock heavy or lightweight?
Comparing the weight and density of rocks is a useful method for identification. Some minerals, such as gold and silver, are extremely heavy, while others, like pumice, are so light they can even float!
4) Is your rock or mineral shiny?
Luster describes how a rock or mineral reflects light. Is the surface highly reflective, like metal? Is it shiny, like glass? Does it have a pearly look? Or is it dull, not reflecting light at all?
5) How hard is the rock or mineral?
You can test this by comparing how your rock scratches other surfaces. (Be careful what you test this on!) You can also explain how easy it is to scratch your rock/mineral. There is a scale called the Mohs Hardness Scale that compares the hardness of common rocks/minerals. You can look at this one for reference.6) If you rub the rock/mineral across a surface like a concrete sidewalk, what mark does it make?
The mark or color left behind when you rub the rock/mineral against a rough surface is called the STREAK.
7) Explain how your rock or mineral fractures.
Some rocks or minerals will break in sheets. Some break into chunks like cubes. Some will break leaving jagged edges. The word used for this characteristic is CLEAVAGE.
These are the basic characteristics to look at and record about your rock. There are other characteristics scientists look at when studying rocks and minerals. Scientists might record the way the rock/mineral forms crystals. Or they might look at some unusual characteristics like magnetism or odor! Did you know there are rocks/minerals that can smell like rotten eggs? Rocks that have sulfur in them will be stinky when broken or rubbed.
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