Cleavage and Fracture
The way a mineral breaks apart is another clue to its identity.
When a mineral is broken and it has a smooth surface, it is also called cleavage. When a mineral is broken and it has a rough surface, it is said to have fracture. Mica is an example of a mineral that has cleavage. It has layers, so when you peel it, the surface of the mineral is still smooth and straight.
When a mineral is broken and it has a smooth surface, it is also called cleavage. When a mineral is broken and it has a rough surface, it is said to have fracture. Mica is an example of a mineral that has cleavage. It has layers, so when you peel it, the surface of the mineral is still smooth and straight.