Tag: Geology for beginners

Over 4,000 different mineral species exist on Earth, each with a unique set of properties. Understanding the major features of the minerals is crucial for geologists and anyone interested in the natural world, as these characteristics determine a mineral's identity, formation, and uses. This guide will explain the key characteristics that define a mineral.

Over 90% of the Earth's crust is made up of silicate minerals, making them the most abundant mineral group on the planet. But what are minerals for dummies, and how do these natural compounds fit into our world?

According to the U.S. National Park Service, minerals are the building blocks of Earth's rocks and sands. To be considered a true mineral by geologists, a substance must meet five specific criteria: it must be naturally occurring, inorganic, solid, possess a definite chemical composition, and have a crystalline structure.

Minerals are the foundational building blocks of our planet, with over 5,300 known species. From the gleaming gemstones in jewelry to the industrial materials in our electronics, understanding these natural substances is key to grasping Earth's structure and the resources we rely on.