Photos and information about 80 common rock-forming, ore and gemstone minerals from around the world.

There are approximately 4000 different minerals, and each of those minerals has a unique set of physical properties. These include: color, streak, hardness, luster, diaphaneity, specific gravity, …

Most of Earth’s crust is comprised of a small number of minerals. These minerals are known as the common rock-forming minerals.

An introduction to rocks and minerals with detailed photos, description and identification information. Sponsored by the National Audubon Society, the National Wildlife Federation, and …

Feldspar minerals occur in igneous, metamorphic and sedimentary rocks throughout the world. They are used to make glass, ceramics, paint, plastics, rubber and many other products. …

The best way to learn about minerals is to study with a collection of small specimens that you can handle, examine, and observe their properties. Inexpensive mineral collections are available in …

A list of minerals in order of hardness can be a handy reference. If you determine that a specimen has a hardness of Mohs 4, you can quickly get a list of potential minerals.

The best way to learn about minerals is to study with a collection of small specimens that you can handle, examine, and observe their properties. Inexpensive mineral collections are available in …

The best way to determine if water or ice are minerals is to compare their properties to the definition of the word mineral.

This appearance often occurs on cleavage surfaces of transparent to translucent minerals that include some micas, some feldspars, and some carbonate minerals. Examples include …