How To Use the Mineral Identification Charts
In the mineral identification charts (pp. [26]-38), the minerals have been grouped, first of all, on the basis of luster: the first group includes the minerals that appear metallic and almost metallic (submetallic); the second group includes those that appear nonmetallic. Next, the minerals have been arranged within the two groups according to color.
After you have determined the luster and the color of an unknown mineral, turn to the Key to Mineral Identification Charts on [page 25]. It will direct you to the proper mineral chart.
Mineral Charts [1] through [5], which include the minerals of various colors with metallic and submetallic lusters, are subdivided according to the hardness of the minerals. To determine the hardness of a mineral that has one of these lusters, you can make the following tests:
1. Will the mineral readily leave a mark on paper?
2. If it will not readily leave a mark on paper, will an ordinary pocket knife scratch it?
3. Is it too hard to be scratched by an ordinary pocket knife?
Mineral Charts [6] through [15] are for the nonmetallic minerals of various colors. They, too, are subdivided according to the hardness of the minerals, as follows:
1. Can the mineral be scratched by a fingernail?
2. If it cannot be scratched by a fingernail, can it be scratched by a copper penny?
3. If it cannot be scratched by a copper penny, can it be scratched by an ordinary pocket knife?
4. If it cannot be scratched by an ordinary pocket knife, can it be scratched by a piece of [quartz]?
5. Is it too hard to be scratched by [quartz]?
When the luster, color, and hardness of a mineral have been determined, you may find that several minerals on the charts fit the description. To narrow your choice, you can then test other properties of the mineral. Notice the “remarks” column on the charts. In it, is mentioned anything that is distinctive about the mineral.
For more complete mineral identification lists and tables, you can use textbooks, such as Dana’s Manual of Mineralogy, revised by C. S. Hurlbut, Jr., or Mineralogy, by E. H. Kraus, W. F. Hunt, and L. S. Ramsdell.