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Rock and mineral identification

A stack of rocks on a lakeshore at sunset; the stones have glowing yellow flecks
Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy

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!

  • 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)
  • 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)
  • Magnetism
  • Smell (yes, some minerals have a distinct smell!)
  • Radioactivity
  • Taste (not recommended to perform this test due to safety concerns)

Follow all rock collecting rules - annual limit is 25lbs total per person per year on state-owned land.

Check for local rock collecting rules.

Get permission if on private land.

Go early in the season when cooler temperatures keep most people off the shoreline.

Go immediately after a storm, as new material is washed up -- do NOT go during the storm or when there's high wave action.

Look along the shoreline, out into the water, and at the high water mark.

Look behind you, as your feet may shift stones as you walk.

Use a hand rake to move gravel around or reach out into the water.

Be respectful of other visitors and the land - pick up trash and Leave No Trace

Be willing to share your tips with others as many are first time searchers - we all remember the joy of our first find!

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!

Search for state geology jobs