The document discusses several methods for mineral identification, including color, luster, streak, cleavage, fracture, hardness, specific gravity, acid testing, and special properties. Color can be affected by impurities and exposure to air. Luster describes how a mineral reflects light. Streak is the mineral's true color when rubbed on a plate. Cleavage and fracture describe characteristic breakage patterns. Hardness is measured on the Mohs scale. Specific gravity compares weight in air versus water. Acid testing can identify carbonate minerals through gas release. Some minerals fluoresce, taste salty, are radioactive, or show double refraction.