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Rock and mineral identification
Rock and mineral identification
Love rocks? So do our over 70 geologists working throughout our programs! One of the more fun advantages to having geologists on staff is we always have someone to call when we need help identifying a cool rock we found.
Our geologists have helped identify several interesting Michigan finds over the years, and have provided some rockhounding tips to help you find treasures of your own.
We 'dig' these stories from our geologists!
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Keep an eye out for rocks dragged hundreds – and even thousands – of miles by ancient glaciers into Michigan
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Tips for finding the highly sought-after and elusive Lake Superior agates
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Tips to find elusive, glowing Yooperlites®
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'Rock librarian' explains mystery mineral in the U.P.
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Mysterious rock found in Lake Huron
Techniques for identifying rocks
No matter the rock or mineral, you can count on these rock identification techniques to help you identify your find. Most common minerals can be identified by their basic physical properties in the field, such as:
Appearance
- Color (also color of a "streak" if it can be made by swiping the specimen on a piece of porcelain, creating a powder)
- Luster (shiny, dull, glassy)
- Fluorescence (shines under UV light)
Structure
- Shape/structure (crystal form or amorphous?)
- Breakage (how does it break apart, cleavage or fracture?)
- Density/specific gravity (can get an idea by "hefting" to see if it's heavy for its size)
Unique properties
- Magnetism
- Smell (yes, some minerals have a distinct smell!)
- Radioactivity
- Taste (not recommended to perform this test due to safety concerns)
Have a rock that mystifies you?
There are many popular amateur rock identification groups on social media that you can join to post information about your find. You can also reach out to the Michigan Geological Survey.
For research purposes, check out our rock library, the Upper Peninsula Geological Repository.
Bring your love of rocks to work!
Many of our positions require some educational background in geology. With a wide variety of positions throughout the State of Michigan and across our many agencies, the perfect career may be waiting for you!