The following tests can determine the mineral in a rock specimen:
1. How does the rock crumble or split under pressure?
2. What is the texture of the rock?
3. Observing it under a magnifying lens.
4. Determine the color of the rock
Test 1 and 3 determines if the rock is granular and the types of grains in the rock. Test 3 also determines if the rock has layers hence sedimentary rock.
Determining whether color of the rock is dark or light also helps identify the mineral and type of rock.