Step 1:Determine the mineral's luster.

This database organizes minerals into three main luster categories: Metallic, Light-colored Nonmetallic, and Dark-colored Nonmetallic.

Select the luster that best describes your mineral sample. Metallic Light-colored Nonmetallic Dark-colored Nonmetallic

Step 2: Mineral Hardness

In order to narrow down mineral possibilities determine the hardness of your mineral and select the appropriate hardness category below

Mineral Hardness Less than 5 Greater Than 5 Equal to 5

Step 3: Breakage

Lastly determine the breakage of your mineral and select the appropriate property. Irregular fracture Conchoidal fracture Cleavage