Classification of Minerals

Native elements or minerals include well-known materials like gold, silver, and diamonds. Learn how to identify common native minerals.

The silicate subgroups of phyllosilicates and tectosilicates include minerals used in industry and jewelry. Learn how to identify them.

The silicate subgroups of cyclosilicates and inosilicates include beryl, tourmaline, jadeite, and nephrite. Learn to identify these minerals.

Silicates include well-known minerals such as zircon, topaz, and garnet. Learn how to identify minerals from two silicate sub-groups.

Although phosphates and other mineral classes are rare, they still have species with important uses. Learn how to identify these...

Halides, carbonates, and sulfites are sedimentary minerals with many uses, from salt to manufacturing. Learn how to identify these minerals....

Oxides and hydroxides are mineral classes that include well-known gems as well as significant ores. Learn how to identify these...

Sulfides and sulfosalts are important sources of elements crucial to modern industry. Learn how to identify these minerals.