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  • Fracture vs. Cleavage: Understanding Mineral Breakage
    The breaking of a mineral along irregular surfaces is called fracture.

    Here's why:

    * Cleavage refers to the tendency of a mineral to break along specific, smooth planes of weakness.

    * Fracture describes any break that doesn't follow a specific cleavage plane.

    There are different types of fractures, including:

    * Conchoidal: Smooth, curved surfaces, like a seashell (e.g., quartz)

    * Hackly: Jagged, sharp edges (e.g., metals)

    * Uneven: Rough, irregular surfaces (e.g., most minerals)

    * Splintery: Thin, elongated fragments (e.g., asbestos)

    * Fibrous: Like fibers or threads (e.g., gypsum)

    Let me know if you'd like more details about any specific type of fracture!

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