Minerals: Identifying Minerals

The video tutorial explains how to identify minerals by examining their properties. It begins with a comparison between gold and pyrite, highlighting the importance of specific properties like color, streak, and luster. The tutorial then introduces the Mohs hardness scale, explaining how minerals vary in hardness. It also covers how minerals break, discussing cleavage and fracture. Finally, it touches on crystal structures and other identifying properties such as density, taste, and odor.

What are the characteristics that differentiate gold from pyrite?

Explain the significance of a mineral's streak in its identification.

How does luster affect the identification of minerals?

Describe the Mohs hardness scale and its importance in mineral identification.

What is the difference between cleavage and fracture in minerals?