* Color: This is the most obvious feature, but it can be misleading as some minerals have different colors depending on impurities.
* Streak: The color of the mineral's powder when rubbed on a streak plate. This is a more reliable indicator of the mineral's true color than the overall color of the sample.
* Luster: How light reflects off the mineral's surface. Examples include metallic, glassy, pearly, and dull.
* Crystal Form: The shape of the mineral's crystals, if they are present. This can be helpful in identifying the mineral.
* Cleavage/Fracture: How the mineral breaks. Cleavage refers to smooth, flat surfaces along which the mineral breaks, while fracture refers to irregular breaks.
* Hardness: The mineral's resistance to scratching. This is often tested using Mohs Hardness Scale.
* Specific Gravity: The mineral's density relative to water.
* Magnetism: Whether the mineral is attracted to a magnet.
These observations can be used to help identify the mineral using a field guide or other resources.
