The 5 characteristics of a mineral:

Naturally Occurring- forms by natural geologic processes; manmade

gems are not minerals


Solid Substance- not a gas or a liquid


Orderly Crystalline Structure- the atoms or ions are

arranged in a repetitive pattern


Definite Chemical Composition- a mineral will always have
 
the same chemical formula; most aremade up of 2 or more

elements there are a few that are only one element, such as

fold and silver


Generally Considered Inorganic- not from organic, or living,

compounds.  The word "generally" is used because

there is an exception

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