Thanks to glacial deposition, Long Island is an area that contains a 
wide variety of rock types.  A large percentage of these rocks are 
foliated metamorphic and intrusive igneous boulders.  Due to their 
environments of formation, these types of rocks display coarse textures 
and are ideal for mineral collecting.

STEP 1

Find a location where there is a concentration of boulders.  Using a 
hammer (and observing the safety rules of collecting below) search for
 and break off samples of ten different minerals.  The coarser the rock’s 
texture, the easier this will be.  The use of a hand lens in the field may 
be helpful.

STEP II

Using standard mineral identification tests and a mineral identification 
chart (found in most geology books), identify your samples. YOUR
 IDENTIFICATION WILL BE CARRIED OUT AFTERSCHOOL ON 
DESIGNATED DAYS IN ROOM 230.  Record your test results on a 
data table. (You must test for STREAK, HARDNESS, AND LUSTER.
You may do additional tests you feel necessary to correctly identify the minerals)

STEP III

Your mineral samples will be small pieces chipped from a rock.  As a 
result, they can easily be displayed in an empty egg carton.  Be sure 
each sample or compartment is clearly labeled.  INCLUDED WITH 
YOUR SAMPLES MUST BE YOUR TYPED DATA TABLE 
CONTAINING YOUR TEST RESULTS.

NOTE: If the sample is polymineralic, you must be absolutely clear in
defining the spot I am to test.

SAFETY RULES OF COLLECTING
1-Hammering rocks can be dangerous, be carefull
2-Always wear safety goggles, long pants, long sleeves, and gloves
3-Make sure no one is standing nearby
4-Cover the rock with an old rag or towel to prevent loose chips from hitting you
5-Always hammer under adult supervision