why do scientists identify minerals
Chemical Composition --Minerals are chemicals, either elements or compounds found naturally in the Earth. Some minerals have a fixed chemical composition, and some minerals have a rigid set of chemical composition parameters that allow for the replacement of certain elements with other elements.Chemical properties can be tested with the use of a blowpipe, flame color, bead test, and laboratory solution tests.n a hand sample/specimen you can the properties used to identify minerals are luster, diaphaneity, color, streak, luminescence, play of colors, crystal shape, tenacity, cleav â¦ age, hardness, specific gravity and density, magnetism, electrical properties, reaction to acid. 18 people found this useful.