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Evidence-first specimen analysis

Rock and mineral identifier

Add clear photos and a few field observations. Get up to three likely matches, the visible evidence behind them, and practical checks for what to do next.

Photos used only for analysis 1 credit per analysis

Rock and mineral identifier

Add specimen photos

Use 1–3 views: the whole specimen, a fresh edge, and a close texture view.

0/3

Try a reference specimen

Adds a real CC0 photo

Add field observations

Optional details help separate look-alikes. Choose “Not sure” rather than guessing.

Surface luster
Light transmission
Simple scratch check
Attracted to a magnet

0/400

Evidence report

Your evidence report will appear here

Upload a specimen to compare visible texture, color, fracture, grain, and any field observations you provide.

Up to three plausible candidates

Visible reasons for each match

Simple checks to narrow it down

Better input, better evidence

Photograph a rock for identification

A useful image shows diagnostic texture, not just an attractive surface. These real teaching specimens show the level of detail to aim for.

Biotite granite hand specimen with visible coarse grains

Biotite granite

Dexter Perkins · GeoDIL · CC0

View source and license
Dark basalt hand specimen with a fine-grained surface

Basalt

Mike Davis · GeoDIL · CC0

View source and license
Milky quartz mineral specimen on a dark background

Milky quartz

Shannon Heinle · GeoDIL · CC0

View source and license
1

Use indirect daylight and keep the specimen’s color neutral.

2

Fill the frame, but keep the entire specimen in focus.

3

Add a fresh broken edge or crystal face when available.

4

Include a coin or ruler in one view for scale, then remove it for the close-up.

Private field notebook

Your local collection

Save a result with your own name, place, date, and notes. Records stay in this browser until you export them.

No saved specimens yet

Complete an identification, then save the evidence report here.