Rock Identification Guide Complete with photos and information about each rock’s distinguishing characteristics, this rock identification guide has been designed to assist you in identifying the rocks provided in the Deeper and Deeper and Mining Matters II kits. Flow charts or, dichotomous keys, are a great tool for identifying rocks and minerals when you are learning about the different sample properties. You may copy it, or any part of it, for non-commercial, personal use. (Does it have a lot of flat, shiny faces – may be tiny or small - that reflect light like … The key can help guide you to the correct rock identification. Dirt and debris can make your specimen an entirely different color, shape, and shine. These include igneous, sedimentary or metamorphic types. MINERAL IDENTIFICATION KEY II by Alan Plante, Donald Peck & David Von Bargen. This is the most important step. How to Identify Rocks and Minerals By Jan C. Rasmussen (Revised from a booklet by Susan Celestian) 2012 Donations for reproduction from: Freeport McMoRan Copper & Gold Foundation To begin using the rock identification key: 1. You may copy it, … Rock Origin The first step to identify a rock is to try to categorize the rock into one of the three main types or groups of rocks. MINERAL IDENTIFICATION KEY by Alan Plante & Donald Peck. 2. Record the rock's sample number on your table. Hand lenses, streak plates and identification information help you find the name of each rock in your new kit. Return to: A Very Simple Metamorphic Classification Other pages associated with this page: Simple Metamorphic Identification Keys and Charts Hardness and Acid Reaction Tests For Minerals and Rocks. A Very Simple Key to Metamorphic Rocks. Go on to more detailed pages An Introduction to Metamorphism By using a simple toothbrush and water, you should be able to clean any dirt and debris off of the specimen. Waxy substance is found on current and second year stems and will rub off with thumb. Simple Identification Key to Common Willows, Cottonwoods, Alder, Birch, and Dogwood of the ... • Winter Key – Green to reddish purple twigs that are covered with a whitish waxy bloom. Is the rock made of crystal grains? In geology, pictures of rocks can be used to help you best determine which of the three major types a particular rock belongs to: igneous, sedimentary, or metamorphic.. By comparing your rock sample with photographic examples, you can identify key characteristics such as how the rock was formed, what minerals and other materials it contains, and where the rock may have come from. It's very important that your rock or mineral is clean before you begin any tests. 1. Before you start, you'll need a rock sample in your hands. THE ROCK KEY Use this key to ask and answer questions on your unknown rock specimens. 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