Question

Can you determine the identity of a mineral based on its properties?

Answer 1

Yes. I'm assuming you want to know how to identify it based on its physical properties. Any mineral can be tested and identified in a lab through chemical means. Ways to identify minerals based on their appearance are as follows:
-Streak- the rock is scratched against a hard plate. The color of the substance remaining on the plate can be used to determine the identity.
-Luster- The shininess of the rock

-Transparency- The way light passes through the rock.

-Color- The color of the rock

-Density- Essentially the weight of the rock in comparison to the amount of space it takes up.

-Crystals- The shape of the crystals it forms

-Cleavage- Whether it breaks along even, neat lines or jagged lines-

Hardness- How strong the rock is in comparison to other rocks

Basically, you observe and record the characteristics. Then, you can use tables online to narrow done what types of mineral it can be based on these properties.