Layered rock strata with a dark mineral vein

Geology hub

Methods

How geologists test ideas: mapping, sampling, microscopy, geochemistry, and dating—turning observations into measurements.

Subtopics

Geologic mapping

Contacts, units, structures, and why maps are the backbone of geologic interpretation.

Thin sections

Petrography basics: what polarized light reveals about minerals and textures.

XRD & XRF

Mineral ID (XRD) and chemistry (XRF)—what each method measures and when it’s used.

Sampling best practices

Labeling, context notes, contamination avoidance, and ethical collecting.