Rockhound Course

Mineral Identification Basics

Learn how color, luster, hardness, streak, cleavage, and crystal form help narrow down an identification.

3 lessons Self-paced

Build a dependable observation routine before trying to name a specimen. This beginner course focuses on useful tests, careful notes, and knowing when an identification is only tentative.

Course Lessons

1 Start with ObservationSlow down and record what you can see before testing: color, transparency, shape, surface texture, and visible crystal… Open Lesson → 2 Hardness and StreakLearn the purpose of scratch hardness and streak tests, when they help, and how to avoid damaging a… Open Lesson → 3 Luster, Cleavage, and FractureCompare metallic and nonmetallic luster, then examine the difference between repeated cleavage planes and irregular fracture. Open Lesson →