Stone Science
Minerals (basics)
Minerals are the building blocks of rocks. Learn the scientific language of mineral identity and crystal structure.
Foundations
What makes a mineral
A mineral is defined by chemistry + structure, not just color.
Composition
Chemical formula (major elements) and substitutions (minor elements that swap into the lattice).
Crystal structure
Ordered atomic arrangement that controls cleavage, hardness, and optical behavior.
Habit
Common crystal shapes (prismatic, tabular, fibrous, massive) that help with identification.
Mineral groups
Silicates, carbonates, oxides, sulfides, sulfates, halides, phosphates, and native elements.
Minerals in close-up
Representative mineral textures and forms referenced across Stone Science.
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