what is mineral

A mineral is an inorganic crystalline solid substance with a definite chemical composition that forms through natural processes. Minerals have a characteristic chemical composition and a highly ordered atomic structure. They are the building blocks that make up rocks. Some minerals are only made up of one element, such as metals, gemstones, simple ores, and the only liquid metal mineral, mercury. There are over 5800 different minerals, each classified by both its chemical composition and crystal structure. Minerals can be readily identified by several physical properties such as hardness, lustre, streak, and cleavage. For example, the mineral talc is very soft and easily scratched, whereas the mineral quartz is quite hard and not so easily scratched. Minerals are used in the production of ceramics, electronics, and even in our jewelry and makeup.