AUSTRALIAN MINERALS & GEMS


A miscellaneous collection of Minerals & Gems from Down Under!
The Earth produces over 4000 naturally occurring minerals, which are inorganic solids with specific chemical compositions and crystal structures. These minerals are formed from simple molecules or individual elements arranged in repeating patterns, and are typically created when molten rock cools or mineral-rich water separates underground. They can be found in rocks and affect landform development, forming natural resources like gold, tin, iron, marble, and granite. Many minerals form beautiful crystals that are prized as gemstones, and their classification is based on physical properties such as hardness, luster, color, density, and magnetism.