Minerals are nature’s way of creating large pieces of pure elements and compounds. In medieval times, kings and queens would seek out "alchemists" to create gold, silver, and other precious minerals from chemical "magic."

Minerals have always been important when their uses were discovered. Pieces of quartz could be rubbed together and produce sparks to create fire. Gold could be hammered into thin sheets that could be made into useable items without fear of breaking or rusting. Mineral wealth, even today, reveals a country’s economy and their ability to sell or create products.

The study of minerals is called mineralogy. It includes mineral identification and description, the classification of mineral groups, and the study of where minerals occur.