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Metallic Minerals: A Safe Field Identification Guide

A metallic lustre means a surface reflects light like metal; it does not prove the specimen is native metal or ore. Pyrite, chalcopyrite, galena, magnetite, hematite, graphite, molybdenite, and many weathered or industrial materials can look metallic. Begin with visual and magnetic observations, then add safe tests. Record fresh-surface colour, tarnish colour, grain shape, cleavage, and whether the material occurs as crystals, flakes, or a massive aggregate. Test magnetism without damaging the specimen and compare heft with an ordinary rock of similar size. Check hardness and whether a soft specimen marks paper or separates into sheets. Use streak only when dust generation is appropriate and safe, then combine the result with geologic setting and associations. Slag, drill cuttings, and other human-made materials can be metallic, dense, magnetic, or vesicular. Tarnish can hide the diagnostic colour of a fresh surface and should not be interpreted alone. Unknown metallic minerals may contain arsenic, lead, mercury, or other hazardous elements; do not taste, heat, grind, or inhale dust.

Verification resources

Cross-check terminology, classification, methods, and safety with these authoritative external resources.

  • IMA–CNMNC List of Mineral Names — International Mineralogical Association. Official mineral-name, nomenclature, and classification records.
  • Mineral ID Key — Mineralogical Society of America. Physical-property identification methods, repeat-testing guidance, and limitations.

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