Mineralogy

Mineralogy is a branch of geology that studies the chemistry, crystal structure, and physical properties (including optical qualities) of minerals and mineralized artifacts. Mineralogy investigates the processes of mineral genesis and formation, mineral categorization, geographical distribution, and utilization. A mineral is a naturally occurring, homogenous solid with well-defined chemical composition and well-ordered atomic structure. A homogeneous substance is one that can be broken down into identical repeating units. A mineral cannot be a liquid or a gas by definition. Minerals have long been a significant component of human culture, dating back to prehistoric times. Minerals such as quartz were used to carve tools by early humans. A mineral's chemical composition is definite, meaning it always contains the same ratio of elements, and this composition may be represented using a chemical formula. A mineral's atoms are grouped in a crystal lattice structure, which is highly ordered. Mining usable minerals from ores became common hundreds of years ago, and it is still practiced today.

• Crystal form and habit (shape)
• Luster and transparency
• Color and streak
• Cleavage, fracture, and parting
• Tenacity
• Density
• Hardness
• Mineralogical Sciences
• Primarily Mineralogy
• Petrology
• Geochemistry
• Crystallography
• Ore Deposits
• Biomineralogy
• Applied And Technical Mineralogy