382 DETERMINATION OF MINERALS. 



The series of crystallized minerals, constituting the scale 

 of hardness (see page 63). Diamond and talc are least es- 

 sential. 



Cutting pliers, for removing chips of a mineral for blow- 

 pipe or chemical assay. 



A pocket-lens. 



A hammer weighing about two pounds, resembling a 

 stone-cutter's hammer, having a 

 flat face, and at the opposite 

 end an edge having the same 

 direction as the handle. The 

 handle should be made of the 

 best hickory, and the mortise to 

 receive it should be as large as the handle. A foot scale 

 should be marked on the handle of the hammer, divided 

 into inches, the smallest divisions needed. It will be often 

 of use in getting out a yard-stick, or a ten-foot pole, for 

 large measurements. A similar hammer, having the upper 

 part prolonged to a blunt point, to be used like a pick, is 

 often convenient. 



A hammer of half a pound weight, like the figure, to be 

 used in trimming specimens. 



A small jeweler's hammer, for trying the malleability of 

 globules obtained by the blowpipe, and for other purposes, 

 and a small piece of steel for an anvil. 



Two steel chisels, one six inches long, and the other three. 

 When it is desired to pry open seams in- rocks with the 

 larger chisel, two pieces of steel plate should be provided to 

 place on opposite sides of the chisel, after an opening is ob- 

 tained : this protects the chisel and diminishes friction 

 while driving it. 



For blasting, if this is desired : 



Three hand-drills 18, 24, and 36 inches long, an inch in 

 diameter. The best form is a square bar of steel, with a 

 diagonal edge at one end. The three are designed to follow 

 one another. 



A sledge-hammer of six or eight pounds weight, to use 

 in driving the drill. 



A sledge-hammer of ten or twelve pounds weight, for 

 breaking up the blasted rock. 



A round iron spoon, at the end of a wire fifteen or eigh- 

 teen inches long, for removing the pulverized rock from the 

 drill-hole. 



