Density (Specific Gravity)
Some minerals are denser than others. That means they weigh more than other minerals of the same size. Why? Because the atoms inside are heavier or packed more tightly together. Density is also called 'specific gravity.'

Mica has a very low density— just 2.8

Galena's density is 7.5

Gold has one of the highest densities—19.3!

Measuring density is complicated, but we can easily compare these our two minerals—the golden cube and gold—with a scales. The golden cube is about the same size as the gold nugget—do you think they have the same density? Move your mouse over the scales to find out!

Now let's test another mineral property!

© The Children's Museum of Indianapolis, 2000