Question about those expensive rock identification kits

I spent $75 on a fancy mineral test kit last year, but the streak plates were junk and the hardness picks broke on the first quartz sample. Is it better to just buy separate tools or are some kits actually worth the cash?

3 comments

3 Comments

amyscott27d ago

Ugh, same thing happened to me! My kit's glass plates scratched immediately on basic stuff. I've had way better luck just getting a few solid pieces separately.

elliot_barnes25d ago

Oh man, @amyscott, that is the worst feeling. I bought a fancy set once and the big serving bowl got a huge scratch just from a metal spoon. It looked awful after like two uses. Now I just hunt for single plates at discount stores. Found a thick, basic white one that's survived everything. It's so much less stressful.

the_eric27d ago

Totally agree with you @amyscott about kits being a letdown. That "scratched immediately" thing is so frustrating. It feels like they use cheaper materials just to fill a box. Buying separate pieces might cost a bit more upfront, but it saves money and anger later. You end up with stuff that actually lasts.