The National Geographic Rock and Mineral Starter Kit gives students 15 genuine specimens to begin a geology collection. The set includes hematite, rose quartz, snowflake obsidian, tiger's eye, red jasper, green aventurine, green zebra jasper, desert rose, pumice, pyrite, blue quartz, blue calcite and fluorite, with two samples each of rose quartz and green aventurine.
A magnifying glass is included for examining color, luster and texture up close, and the specimens are stored in a clear case that doubles as a display.
In the classroom, the kit supports lessons on identifying and classifying rocks and minerals. Students can compare physical properties, sort the specimens into groups and use the collection as a reference set for earth science activities.