Metamorphic Rock Identification Flow Chart

To use our Metamorphic rock Identification Flow Chart, it will be easiest if you print out your own copy first.  The flow chart moves from left to right, following the arrows.

Step 1:  Select a Metamorphic rock - Choose the metamorphic rock that you want and place it on the “Metamorphic Rock to Identify” block.

Step 2:  Determine the Texture – Once you have chosen your rock, take a look at the texture.  The texture is the appearance of the crystals.  You will see that either the rock is:

• No Crystals where the rock does not have any crystals.  These rocks are Organic where the rock is made from plants and not minerals

• Fine-Grained where you can not see each individual crystal (very tiny crystals)

• Medium-Grained where you can see the individual grains (medium size crystals)

• Coarse-Grained where you can very easily see the individual grains (large size crystals)

Step 3:  Determine the Color – The next step is to decide the color of your metamorphic rock.  Some metamorphic rocks can be a variety of colors so choose the color that most closely matches the overall color of your sample. 

Step 4:  Test Special Features – Many of the special features can been seen by looking through your hand magnifier.  One of the rocks will fizz when you put a drop of vinegar on the surface.  Kids, get an adult to help you with the vinegar.  Sometimes, the special features are needed to identify your metamorphic rock, other times; the special features are simply a fun characteristic to see. 

Follow these steps for each of your metamorphic rock samples until you identify them all. If you need help, grab an adult and give us a call!