Mineral Groups (E + S)

Carbonates

Minerals composed of one or more metallic elements and the carbonate ion CO3

Examples of carbonates

Calcite, dolomite, and rhodochrosite

Silicates

Minerals that contain silica and oxygen, and usually one or more elements.

Oxides

Compounds of oxygen and à metal.

Examples of oxides

Hematite, magnetite. Remove the oxygen and you get metal as well.

Silicates

Minerals that contain silica and oxygen (and usually one or more elements)

Ore

À mineral that contains à useful substance that can be mined for profit

Examples of ores

Gold, silver, copper

Can the classification of à mineral as an ore change? How?

Yes, the classification can change if the demand of supply drops.

Gems

Valuable minerals that are judged by their rarity and beauty. Normally very hard and scratch resistant.

Examples of gems

Rubies, emeralds, diamonds, amethyst

Sulfides

Compounds of sulfur and one or more elements. Example: pyrite.

Sulfates

Composed of elements with the sulfate ion So4. Example: anhydrite

Halides

Made up of chlorine or floride along with calcium, sodium, or potassium. Example: Halite

Native element

Made up of only one element. Examples: silver, copper