How to identify rocks

Learn how to identify rocks and mineral. With basic knowledge, pictures and charts, you can learn rock, mineral and crystal identification.

Every rockhound loves a good geode, and the best are those we’ve gathered ourselves. While it can be tempting to start busting every rock you find with a rock pick, you can usually tell before you attack. Geodes are a specific formation and can usually be identified by their round shape and bumpy texture. These reliable indicators don’t tell the whole story, however. So, let’s go a bit further and give you an overview of how to tell if a rock is a geode.

In this beginners guide to rock and mineral identification, you'll learn that there is no one-size meets all solution. But there are certain things you can do to help identify your rock.

I tested out the many rock and mineral apps that are out there and have compiled a list of the best apps for rock and mineral identification.

In search of a Rock and Mineral Identifier? I have you covered! These apps can help you figure out rocks and minerals this school year.

ig: @spectrometrie artblog: @gbrltvrst

Identifying common minerals involves a systematic approach that combines observation, testing, and research. Start by carefully examining...

How to EASILY Identify Rocks and Minerals: Have you ever found a rock and wondered what it was? Or maybe you have an old collection but can't remember what hidden treasures you actually have? Well, you're in luck. By doing a few simple tests you can discover how valuable those useless chu…

When you hold an igneous rock, the rock you hold in your hand is one of the oldest things in the world. Igneous rocks are formed from lava, magma or ash from a volcanic eruption or flow . By becoming familiar with their distinctive...

Many rocks have crystals embedded on their surfaces, within the rocks or are considered to be crystals. Crystals have flat surfaces which can be either large or small. Crystals with small flat surfaces are said to have "facets." All crystals have a faceted surface, but not all crystals have multiple facets. Many excellent books and websites have been written to help identify crystals on or within rocks. Collect several rock samples with crystals before identifying them.