StoneScout field notes

Look closer. Learn the clues.

Practical, careful guidance for the next stone that catches your eye.

How to Identify a Rock From a Photo (and What a Photo Cannot Tell You)Use a rock photo to build a careful shortlist, then add safe observations that separate lookalikes and reveal when an expert is needed.
Six Clues That Matter More Than ColorLearn to compare luster, grain, crystal form, breakage, hardness, and heft—the physical clues that make mineral identification more reliable.
How to Take Better Rock Identification PhotosLearn how to choose one clear rock photo that shows useful color, scale, texture, and luster for a StoneScout identification.