Mineral Deposits and Their Characteristics

Abstract

This chapter will deal with the formation processes of mineral deposits, i.e. the minerals that can be extracted economically and profitably and are commonly designated as economic minerals. Minerals are important because they contain most of the elements we use. All the minerals found in nature however do not fulfill this criterion. There are a number of factors which categorize a mineral as an economic one. The most important of these is that an economic mineral is needed to be easily extractable and economically viable. For example iron can be found in a number of minerals, but it is hematite and magnetite, which are particularly important from economic point of view. Two categories of minerals fall under this group – ore minerals and industrial minerals. The economic feasibility of minerals also varies with their diversified zones of formation, which actually largely control their characteristics.