1. Snap a photo
Use natural light and fill the frame with the specimen. One clear photo is enough to start.
RockScan
What Rock Is This?
Wondering what kind of rock this is? Use RockScan to identify rocks by photo and get specimen facts — hardness, formation, lookalikes — on iPhone or in the browser.
Or read the rock identifier app overview.
2. Get a photo ID
RockScan suggests the most likely rock, mineral, crystal, or gem with confidence.
3. Check specimen facts
Confirm with hardness, formation, and lookalikes on the specimen card, then browse the directory.
What kind of rock is this?
If you found a stone and keep asking what kind of rock is this — or simply what is this rock — start with a photo ID. Upload a photo or picture of the specimen and RockScan suggests the closest match, then shows hardness, formation, and lookalikes so you can confirm the ID.
How to identify rocks by photo
To identify rocks by photo, frame one specimen in natural light, upload it in the online studio or the rock identifier app, then compare the specimen card against simple field checks. For geology context, browse the directory.
Identify a rock by picture (same workflow)
If you saved a picture from a hike or estate lot, the same steps apply: one clear picture, scale in frame, diffuse light, then photo ID. “Identify rock by picture” and “identify rock by photo” are the same educational intent — this page owns that funnel so you are not bounced between thin URLs. Confirm hardness and lookalikes on the specimen card, then open the matching guide.
Top specimens to compare next
High-value guides from the rocks, minerals, and crystals hubs:
Collecting crystals? Try the crystal identifier. Learning the method? Read how to identify rock types or rock vs mineral vs crystal, then browse rocks, minerals, and crystals.
More catalog finds
FAQ
What kind of rock is this?
Snap a photo with RockScan to identify rocks by photo and get specimen facts — hardness, formation, and lookalikes — on iPhone or in the browser.
What type of rock is this?
Upload a photo or picture and RockScan suggests what type of rock this is — igneous, sedimentary, metamorphic, or mineral specimen — with checks to confirm.
What do I get after a photo ID?
A specimen card with hardness, formation, lookalikes, and collector context for rocks, minerals, crystals, and gems.
Is it free to try?
Yes. Start with a free rock identifier scan. RockScan Pro unlocks unlimited photo IDs and Ask AI. See pricing for details.