The atoms within the crystal of a mineral are arranged in a regular fashion to form a lattice, and the crystal exhibits a shape with surface regularity which reflects its. . . Read More
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USE OF CRYSTAL FORMS AND HABITS IN MINERAL IDENTIFICATION
USES OF CLEAVAGE, PARTING, AND FRACTURE IN MINERAL IDENTIFICATION
CLEAVAGE IN A MINERAL CRYSTAL[Ref1] Cleavage in a mineral is the tendency for the crystal to split along definite crystallographic planes as exemplified by the rhombohedron cleaved from a calcite. . . Read More
FRACTURE IN MINERAL IDENTIFICATION
Fracture in mineralogy is the texture and shape of the surface formed when the mineral is fractured. Fracture differs from cleavage and parting, which involve clean splitting along a plane. . . Read More
USES OF CLEAVAGE, PARTING, AND FRACTURE IN MINERAL IDENTIFICATION-I
Structural failure of a mineral crystal can occur by cleavage, by parting, or by fracture. The characteristics of any of these failure modes exhibited by a mineral can be useful. . . Read More
HARDNESS: A MECHANICAL PROPERTY OF USE IN IDENTIFYING MINERALS
Along with the colors and crystal forms of minerals, their mechanical properties such as the hardness. tenacity, and habits of structural failure can be very useful tools in identifying an. . . Read More
Need Help Identifying These Specimens
What Are You Curious About? I am from Wisconsin, staying in Winslow with girlfriend who is a nurse.. I just became interested in rocks and minerals and need help identifying. . . Read More
What is the Difference Between a Rock and a Mineral?
According to the USGS website, “A mineral is a naturally occurring inorganic element or compound having an orderly internal structure and characteristic chemical composition, crystal form, and physical properties”. “A. . . Read More