| Learn to test, classify, and identify minerals using the tools, guide, and specimens included in this kit. Determining the hardness of an unknown rock or mineral is often very useful in the identification process. Hardness is a measure of a mineral's resistance to abrasion and is measured against a standard scale - Mohs Scale of Hardness. The classic scale for hardness was published in 1822 by Frederick Mohs, an Austrian mineralogist who got the basic concept from scratch tests performed routinely by miners. This mineral hardness scale set includes 9 mineral specimens (Talc, Gypsum, Calcite, Fluorite, Apatite, Feldspar, Quartz, Topaz and Corundum.) Also included is a nail, ceramic slice, magnifying glass and instruction sheet. For ages 8+. Contains small parts and sharp objects. Not suitable for children under 3 years of age. |