Mohs Hardness Test Classroom Kit

In 1812, Friedrich Mohs created a scale to compare the relative hardness of common minerals. Through the use of streak plates, scratch plates, and aluminum foil, students will become familiar with Mohs hardness scale and develop vital skills in mineral identification that will help them throughout their studies in earth science. Participants will be asked to bring a rock from their home, and the lab can expand further beyond the classroom by locating samples of minerals to test on school grounds.   Determining hardness won’t fully identify any sample. A gem hunter, for example, may have the means to scratch a garnet and prove it is not a ruby. The procedure is useful for gathering data and showing what a sample is not. The exercise will encourage learners to find additional means of gathering data to confirm the identity of a sample.   This easy to use kit includes a robust lab activity and materials for 15 lab groups.