Hobbies And Interests
Mineral Luster in Rocks
Gold, silver, copper and platinum can be found in rocks, and are obvious choices based on their luster; however, these are rare to find encrusted in a rock in their natural, "raw" state. These minerals often have to be mined out of raw ore; that is why they command such a high price on the market.
Pyrite
Pyrite, or "fool's gold," is commonly found aboveground in washes or streams. Its nickname is attributed to the gold-like luster shine it gives off from light. Pyrite generally needs little polishing to reflect the sun.
Hematite
Hematite is another rock mineral that reflects the sun, and is found near sites of volcanic activity. It is often mined as the source of iron, and can be extracted from raw ore. Hematite's silver-like luster has more of a smoky, dark finish to its sheen compared to real silver.
Obsidian
Obsidian is another igneous rock that reflects light. Obsidian has a jet black, shiny and often smooth surface. No light penetrates inside the rock because the molecules are too dense in their crystalline form.