Here's why:

* Minerals have multiple properties: Minerals are identified by a combination of their physical and chemical properties. These include:

* Crystal structure: The arrangement of atoms within the mineral.

* Chemical composition: The elements that make up the mineral.

* Hardness: Resistance to scratching.

* Cleavage: How the mineral breaks along specific planes.

* Fracture: How the mineral breaks irregularly.

* Luster: How light reflects off the surface.

* Color: Can be misleading as many minerals share similar colors.

* Streak: The color of the mineral's powder.

* Specific gravity: The density of the mineral.

* Overlapping properties: Different minerals can share similar properties. For example, several minerals have a metallic luster, and many minerals are black or white.

To accurately identify a mineral, you need to consider multiple properties together. Even then, specialized tests like X-ray diffraction or chemical analysis might be required for positive identification.