Minerals

Front

Largest mineral group with 1,000+ varieties making up nearly 90% of Earth's crust.

Back

Silicates

Front

Minerals in this group are composed of only one element, and are rare and valuable. Some examples are gold and silver.

Back

Native Elements

Front

This mineral group includes one carbon atom bonded to three oxygen atoms. Limestone is a common example.

Back

Carbonates

Front

This mineral group are salts that form when salt water evaporates. They are ionic meaning they dissolve easily in water.

Back

Halides

Front

This mineral group contains one or two metallic elements bonded with oxygen. Common examples are hematite and magnetite.

Back

Oxides

Front

Uncommon mineral type which contain phosphorus rather than silicon. They are found within human bone.

Back

Phosphates

Front

This mineral group forms when saltwater evaporates and gypsum is the most common example of this group.

Back

Sulfates

Front

This mineral group forms when metallic elements bond with sulfur without any oxygen present. Pyrite is one of the most common minerals in this group.

Back

Sulfides

Front

The building blocks of rocks.

Back

Minerals

Front

The five criteria to be considered a mineral.

Back

1. 1. Solid

2. 2. Naturally occuring

3. 3. Inorganic

4. 4. Fixed chemical formula

5. 5. Specific atomic structure