FMF - Friends of Minerals Forum, discussion and message board

[William and Dawn]

I have recently acquired multiple minerals and stones and need help identifying them. I'm new to this forum and hope that the experience of the members can point me in the right direction and teach me a few things to look for when I'm attempting to identify. I literally have hundreds of beautiful stones and fossils that I would love to label correctly but I'm having a rough time researching and identifying them accurately. Can I post pictures of them to have the members tell me what they are? If so how would I go about doing that as far as new topic/thread or continue this one? Thanks ahead of time for any input direction and/or comment.

[Kevin Schofield]

[James Catmur]

We are very happy to help with minerals, but this is the wrong forum for fossils. Please for each mineral do the basic tests on hardness, streak, and if possible density. Those really help us identify which of the 4000+ minerals it might be.

When taking photos place the specimen on a white background as that will help the camera focus.

Note that each post can include up to 15 photos of the specimen - it is best to do one post per specimen to avoid confusion

[Bob Carnein]

Besides the recommendations of others on the forum, I would suggest you find out whether there is a mineral club near your home and take a few things to their next meeting. Nothing beats having somebody actually look at and handle a specimen. Even good pictures are no substitute for in-person discussions with experienced collectors. If that works, then take a few more to the next meeting. Collectors are usually full of help and suggestions. Be sure you take notes and keep track of what you learn.

[William and Dawn]

Thank you for your response I will definitely read your recommendation.

Sincerely,
William and Dawn