Use of Minerals

Minerals are found in products we use every day. In our modern civilization, materials made from minerals are of major industrial and economic importance.

Think about the materials involved in building a new home. Gypsum is used to make wallboard and cement. Steel is an iron mixture used for framework, furniture and appliances.

A television alone contains 35 or more mineral-made materials. For example, quartz is used for making glass and silicon chips, while copper is made into wires.

Gemstones are minerals that are valued for their rarity and beauty. They are primarily used for jewelry and decoration, but some are useful in making mechanical parts.