There are 187 minerals that start with the letter M. From Macdonaldite to Myrickite. Minerals are naturally occurring, inorganic solids with a defined chemical composition and a crystalline structure. They are the building blocks of rocks and are classified based on their chemical properties, crystal structure, and texture. Minerals form through a variety of geological processes, including crystallization from molten rock, precipitation from solutions, and metamorphism under high pressure and temperature. They are essential not only for geological processes but also for many industrial applications and are critical for life, serving as nutrients in biological systems.
An intriguing fact about minerals is that some larval insects use mineral particles from the environment to enhance their camouflage, adapting to their surroundings for protection against predators. This innovative use of minerals demonstrates the complex interactions between organisms and their natural habitats.
Here’s what each of the columns in the table means:
Column Name: This column indicates the specific chemical elements or compounds that make up the mineral, defining its identity and properties.
Mohs hardness: This column provides a numerical scale from 1 to 10 that ranks the hardness of the mineral based on its ability to scratch or be scratched by other substances.
Common uses: This column outlines the various applications or industries where the mineral is utilized, highlighting its practical importance in everyday life and technology.
Description: This column includes a brief overview of the mineral’s appearance, characteristics, and unique features, providing essential information for identification and understanding its role in geology and industry.
Minerals That Start With M
| Minerals | chemical composition | Mohs hardness | common uses |
|---|---|---|---|
| Macdonaldite | Mg(UO2)2(VO4)2�6-8H2O | 2-3(2.5) | Radioactive mineral, used in uranium mining |
| Macfallite | (Cu,Zn)2(SO4)(OH)2 | 2-3(2.5) | none |
| Macfarlanite | (Ca,Na)2(UO2)6(VO4)4�8-10H2O | 2-3(2.5) | Radioactive mineral, used in uranium mining |
| Mackinawite | Fe9S8 | 3-4(3.5) | Steel production, catalysts |
| Macphersonite | Pb10(SO4)3(CrO4)2Cl2 | 3-4(3.5) | none |
| Macquarieite | Ca2Mg5(SiO4)4(OH)2 | 5-6(5.5) | Decorative stone |
| Madeleineite | PbMoO4 | 3-4(3.5) | Pigment, radiation shielding |
| Magadiite | NaSi7O13(OH)3�4H2O | 1-2(1.5) | Industrial applications |
| Maganite | Mn3+2O3 | 5-6(5.5) | pigment |
| Maganocolumbite | (Mn,Fe)(Nb,Ta)O4 | 5-6(5.5) | Mineral specimen |
| Magentite | FeMn3+O3 | 5-6(5.5) | none |
| Maghemite | ?-Fe2O3 | 5-6(5.5) | Pigment, magnetic recording |
| Magnesioarfvedsonite | Na(MgFe2+)4(Fe3+Si)8O22(OH)2 | 5-6(5.5) | Mineral specimen |
| Magnesiochlorite | (Mg,Fe)3(Si,Al)2O5(OH)4 | 1-10(2.0) | None |
| Magnesiochromite | MgCr2O4 | 7.5-8(7.75) | refractory material |
| Magnesioferrite | MgFe2O4 | 6-7(6.5) | Pigment, catalyst |
| Magnesiohornblende | (Ca,Na)2?3(Mg,Fe,Al)5(Si,Al)8O22(OH)2 | 5-6(5.5) | none |
| Magnesioludwigite | Mg2Fe3+O2BO3 | 6-7(6.5) | Mineral specimen |
| Magnesioreevesite | (Ni,Mg)6Fe3+2(OH)16 | 2-3(2.5) | Mineral specimen |
| Magnesiorichterite | NaCa2Mg5Si8O22(OH)2 | 5-6(5.5) | Mineral specimen |
| Magnesioriebeckite | Na2Mg3Fe2+3Si8O22(OH)2 | 5-6(5.5) | ornamental stone |
| Magnesiotaaffeite | BeAl4O7 | 1-10(8.5) | Gemstone |
| Magnesite | MgCO3 | 3-4(3.5) | Refractory, filler, abrasive |
| Magnesite-Siderite Series | (Mg,Fe)CO3 | 3.0-4.5(3.75) | refractory material, pigment |
| Magnesium Silicate Hydroxide | Mg3Si2O5(OH)4 | 2.0-2.5(2.25) | filler, absorbent |
| Magnesium-aluminum spinel | MgAl2O4 | 8(8.0) | Refractory, abrasive |
| Magnesium-iron silicate | Mg2SiO4 | 6-7(6.5) | Refractory, ceramic |
| Magnetite | Fe3O4 | 5-6(5.5) | Steel production, pigment, magnets |
| Magnolite | MgCr2O4 | 7-8(7.5) | Refractory, abrasive |
| Majorite | Mg3(Fe,Al)2(SiO4)3 | 7-8(7.5) | Mineral specimen |
| Makovickyite | PbCu4(AsO4)2(OH)4 | 3-4(3.5) | none |
| Malachite | Cu2CO3(OH)2 | 3-4(3.5) | Pigment, decorative stone |
| Malanite | CuPt2S4 | 1-10(5.0) | None |
| Malayaite | CaSnO(SiO4) | 5-6(5.5) | ceramic glazes |
| Malinkoite | NaAl(SO4)2�4H2O | 2.0-3.0(2.5) | none |
| Mallardite | MnSO4�7H2O | 1-10(2.0) | None |
| Malmbjergite | (Ni,Co)3As2 | 5-6(5.5) | none |
| Manasseite | Mg6(CO3)(OH)10�4H2O | 2-3(2.5) | none |
| Manganarse | MnAs | 4.0-5.0(4.5) | none |
| Manganaxinite | Ca2(Mn2+,Fe2+)Al2BSi4O15(OH) | 6-7(6.5) | Mineral specimen |
| Manganbrodtkorbit | (Mn2+,Fe2+)(V5+,As5+)O4 | 1-10(5.0) | None |
| Manganbrucite | Mn(OH)2 | 3.5-4.5(4.0) | none |
| Mangancolumbite | (Mn,Fe)(Nb,Ta)2O6 | 5.0-6.0(5.5) | none |
| Manganese Oxide | MnO2 | 2.0-6.0(4.0) | battery cathodes, pigments, water treatment |
| Manganian Calcite | (Ca,Mn)CO3 | 3.0-4.0(3.5) | none |
| Manganite | MnO(OH) | 2-3(2.5) | Pigment, ore of manganese |
| Manganoarsenite | Mn2+Mn3+2O2AsO4 | 5-6(5.5) | Mineral specimen |
| Manganochromite | (Mn,Mg,Fe)(Cr,Al)2O4 | 1-10(6.5) | Pigment |
| Manganocolumbite | (Mn,Fe)(Nb,Ta)O4 | 5-6(5.5) | Mineral specimen |
| Manganogrunerite | (Mn2+,Fe2+)7Si8O22(OH)2 | 1-10(5.5) | None |
| Manganohumite | Mg7(SiO4)3(OH,F)2 | 5-6(5.5) | Mineral specimen |
| Manganolangbeinite | K2Mn2(SO4)3 | 1-10(3.0) | None |
| Manganonaujakasite | (Na,Ca)(Mn,Fe)2(Si,Al)8O20 | 1-10(6.0) | None |
| Manganopectolite | NaCaMn2+Si3O8(OH) | 5-6(5.5) | Mineral specimen |
| Manganoquadratite | Cu(Mn,Zn)2S4 | 1-10(4.0) | None |
| Manganosegelerite | Ca(Mn2+,Mg)2(VO4)2�6-8H2O | 1-10(4.0) | None |
| Manganosiderite | (Fe,Mn)CO3 | 3.5-4.5(4.0) | none |
| Manganostibite | MnSb2O6 | 1-10(5.5) | None |
| Manganotantalite | (Mn,Fe)(Ta,Nb)O4 | 5-6(5.5) | Mineral specimen |
| Manganoviolite | Fe2+Mn2+3(VO4)2�6H2O | 3.0-4.0(3.5) | none |
| Mangazeite | Ba(Mn2+,Mg)2(VO4)2�6-8H2O | 1-10(4.0) | None |
| Mapimite | Ca(UO2)2(VO4)2�6-8H2O | 2.0-3.0(2.5) | none |
| Marble | CaCO3 | 3.0-5.0(3.0) | building material, sculpture |
| Marcasite | FeS2 | 6-6.5(6.25) | Pyrite substitute, pigment |
| Margaritasite | K(Fe2+,Mg)3[(Si,Al)4O10](OH)2 | 2.0-3.0(2.5) | none |
| Margarite | CaAl2(Si2Al2)O10(OH)2 | 3-4(3.5) | Mineral specimen |
| Margarosanite | PbCa(CO3)2 | 1-10(3.5) | None |
| Marialite | Na4Al3Si9O24Cl | 5-6(5.5) | Mineral specimen |
| Maricite | NaFePO4 | 5.0-6.0(5.5) | none |
| Mariposaite | NaFeSi2O6 | 5-6(5.5) | ornamental stone |
| Mariposite | K(Cr,Al)2(Si,Al)4O10(OH)2 | 4-5(4.5) | Decorative stone |
| Markascherite | Zn2+Fe3+2O4 | 1-10(6.0) | None |
| Marshite | CuI | 2-3(2.5) | Mineral specimen |
| Marsturite | Ca2(Mn2+,Fe2+)2(Si2O7)(OH)2 | 1-10(5.5) | None |
| Martalite | MgAl2O4 | 7.5-8(7.75) | refractory material |
| Marthozite | Cu3AsS4 | 3-4(3.5) | Mineral specimen |
| Marylandite | Mg2+Mn2+3(AsO4)2(OH)2�4H2O | 3.0-4.0(3.5) | none |
| Mascagnite | (NH4)2SO4 | 1.5-2.5(2.0) | Fertilizer, chemical feedstock |
| Mascara | Pb3O4 | 3.5-4(3.75) | pigment, cosmetics |
| Massicot | PbO | 2-3(2.5) | Pigment, radiation shielding |
| Massicotite | PbO | 1-10(2.5) | Pigment |
| Mathewrogersite | (Mg,Fe)3(AsO4)2�8H2O | 3-4(3.5) | Mineral specimen |
| Mathewrogerssite | NaFe3+(AsO4)(OH) | 4-5(4.5) | ore of arsenic |
| Matsushimite | Cu2+Zn(VO4)(OH) | 1-10(4.5) | None |
| Maucherite | Ni11As8 | 5.0-6.0(5.5) | none |
| Mauritanite | Mn2+Mn3+2O4 | 5.0-6.0(5.5) | none |
| Mawsonite | Cu6Fe2+SnS8 | 4.0-5.0(4.5) | none |
| Maxwellite | NiAl2O4 | 8.0-8.5(8.25) | none |
| Mayenite | Ca12Al14O33 | 9-10(9.5) | Refractory, catalyst |
| Mckelveyite-(Y) | (Ca,Sr,Ba)2(UO2)6(VO4)4�8-12H2O | 2-3(2.5) | Radioactive mineral, uranium exploration |
| Mcnearite | CaAl2Si2O8 | 1-10(6.0) | None |
| Meionite | Ca4Al6Si6O24CO3 | 5-6(5.5) | Mineral specimen |
| Meixnerite | Mg6Al2(OH)16�4H2O | 1-10(2.0) | None |
| Melaconite | CuO | 3.5 – 4.0 | Pigment, ore of copper |
| Melanite | Ca3(Fe3+)2(SiO4)3 | 6-7(6.5) | Mineral specimen |
| Melanophlogite | (SiO2)n�CH4,C2H6 | 5-6(5.5) | Mineral specimen |
| Melcherite | NaMnSi2O6 | 1-10(5.5) | None |
| Melilite | (Ca,Na)2(Al,Mg,Fe)(Si,Al)2O7 | 5-6(5.5) | Refractory, cement |
| Melilitite | (Ca,Na)2(Mg,Fe,Al)(Si,Al)2O7 | 1-10(5.0) | None |
| Meliphanite | Ca4Na(Be,Al)3Si3O12F | 6-7(6.5) | Mineral specimen |
| Mellilite | (Ca,Na)2(Mg,Fe,Al)(Si,Al)2O7 | 5.0-6.0(5.5) | refractory material |
| Mellite | Al2(C6H6O6)3�18H2O | 2-3(2.5) | Mineral specimen |
| Mendipite | Pb3Cl2O2 | 3-4(3.5) | Mineral specimen |
| Mendozavilite | NaFe3+(SO4)2(OH)�3-4H2O | 2.0-3.0(2.5) | none |
| Meneghinite | Pb13CuSb7S24 | 3-4(3.5) | Mineral specimen |
| Menilite | SiO2�nH2O | 5-6(5.5) | ornamental stone |
| Mennimite | (Mn,Fe)8(SiO4)4(OH)4 | 5-6(5.5) | ore of manganese |
| Mercallite | KHSO4 | 2.0-3.0(2.5) | none |
| Mercuric Sulfide | HgS | 2.0 – 2.5 | Pigment, jewelry |
| Mereheadite | Pb2Cu3(AsO4)2(OH)4 | 1-10(3.5) | None |
| Merenskyite | (Pd,Pt)(Te,Bi)2 | 1-10(5.5) | None |
| Merlinoite | K2(Ca,Na)2Al4Si12O32�12H2O | 5.0-6.0(5.5) | none |
| Merrilite | Ca9NaMg(PO4)7 | 1-10(5.0) | None |
| Merrillite | Ca9NaMg(PO4)7 | 5.0-5.5(5.0) | none |
| Merwinite | Ca3Mg(SiO4)2 | 5-6(5.5) | ceramic material |
| Mesitite | (Mg,Fe)CO3 | 1-10(3.5) | None |
| Mesolite | Na2Ca2Al6Si9O30�8H2O | 5-6(5.5) | Zeolite, building material |
| Messelite | Ca(UO2)2(VO4)2�6-8H2O | 2-3(2.5) | rare mineral |
| Metaautunite | Ca(UO2)2(VO4)2�6-8H2O | 2.0-3.0(2.5) | none |
| Metabrushite | CaHPO4�2H2O | 2.5-3.0(2.5) | none |
| Metacinnabar | HgS | 2-3(2.5) | Pigment, mercury production |
| Metahaiweeite | Ca(UO2)2(VO4)2�5-8H2O | 2-3(2.5) | Radioactive mineral, uranium exploration |
| Metahewettite | CaV6O16�3-4H2O | 2-3(2.5) | Radioactive mineral, uranium exploration |
| Metajohannite | Cu2+UO2VO4�6-8H2O | 2.0-3.0(2.5) | none |
| Metakasolite | PbUO2VO4OH | 3-4(3.5) | Radioactive mineral, uranium exploration |
| Metakleinite | Ni3(AsO4)(OH)3 | 3.0-4.0(3.5) | none |
| Metakoenigite | (UO2)3(PO4)2�4H2O | 1.5-2.5(2.0) | none |
| Metalodevite | (Zn,Cu)V2O6�4H2O | 3-4(3.5) | Mineral specimen |
| Metalunite | (UO2)2V2O8�6-8H2O | 2-3(2.5) | Radioactive mineral, uranium exploration |
| Metamictite | A group of radioactive, metamict minerals | 1-10(varied) | None |
| Metamorphite | various compositions | varies | Decorative stone |
| Metanatroalunite | NaAl3(SO4)2(OH)6 | 3.5-4.5(4.0) | none |
| Metanocerite | (Ca,Ce,Na)2(Si,Ti,Nb)2O7 | 1-10(5.0) | None |
| Metarauchite | NiAs2O7�2H2O | 2.0-3.0(2.5) | none |
| Metastibnite | Sb2S3 | 2-3(2.5) | Pigment, antimony production |
| Metastudtite | UO4�2-4H2O | 2.0-3.0(2.5) | none |
| Metaswitzerite | Mg(UO2)2(VO4)2�6-8H2O | 2.0-3.0(2.5) | none |
| Metatorbenite | Cu(UO2)2(VO4)2�6-8H2O | 2.0-3.0(2.5) | none |
| Metatorbernite | Cu(UO2)2(VO4)2�6-8H2O | 2.0-3.0(2.5) | none |
| Metauranocylite | (UO2)2(VO4)2�5-8H2O | 2.0-3.0(2.5) | none |
| Metavauxite | Fe2+Al2(PO4)2(OH)4�4-8H2O | 3.0-4.0(3.5) | none |
| Metaviiksite | (UO2)3(VO4)2�5-8H2O | 2.0-3.0(2.5) | none |
| Metavivianite | Fe2+3(PO4)2�8H2O | 1.5-2.5(2.0) | none |
| Metavoltine | K3Na(UO2)2(VO4)2(SO4)2�6H2O | 2-3(2.5) | Radioactive mineral, uranium exploration |
| Metazellerite | Ca(UO2)2(VO4)2�6-8H2O | 2.0-3.0(2.5) | none |
| Metazeuneri te | Cu(UO2)2(AsO4)2�8H2O | 2.0-3.0(2.5) | none |
| Metazeunerite | Cu(UO2)2(AsO4)2�8H2O | 2-3(2.5) | Radioactive mineral, uranium exploration |
| Metromorphite | Pb5(AsO4)3Cl | 1-10(3.5) | None |
| Metrophanite | CaMnTi2O6 | 5.0-6.0(5.5) | none |
| Meurigite | Ca(UO2)2(VO4)2�6-8H2O | 2.0-3.0(2.5) | none |
| Meyerhofferite | CaB3O4(OH)3 | 1-10(3.5) | None |
| Miargyrite | AgSbS2 | 2.5-3.0(2.75) | none |
| Micheelsenite | Ni3+xS2 | 5-6(5.5) | ore of nickel |
| Michenerite | PdBiTe | 4.5-5.0(4.5) | none |
| Micklinite | Bi(NI,Cu)2S2 | 3.0-4.0(3.5) | none |
| Microlite | (Ca,Na)2Ta2O6(O,OH,F) | 5.0-5.5(5.0) | gemstone |
| Millerite | NiS | 3.5-4.0(4.0) | none |
| Mimetite | Pb5(AsO4)3Cl | 3.5-4.0(3.5) | none |
| Miniulite | (Mn,Fe,Mg)2+x(AsO4)(OH) | 4-5(4.5) | ore of manganese |
| Minnesotagreenalite | (Fe2+,Fe3+)2-3Si2O5(OH)4 | 1-10(2.5) | None |
| Minrecordite | CaV2O6�2H2O | 1-10(2.5) | None |
| Mirabilite | Na2SO4�10H2O | 1.0-2.0(1.0) | none |
| Miraskite | Cu3(AsO4)(OH)3 | 1-10(3.5) | None |
| Mirzaevite | CuFe3+2(AsO4)2(OH)4 | 1-10(4.0) | None |
| Mixtite | Cu2+Fe3+6O8(OH)6 | 3.5-4.0(3.5) | none |
| Moissanite | SiC | 9.5-10(9.75) | gemstone, abrasive |
| Molibdenite | MoS2 | 1-10(1.0) | Lubricant, catalyst |
| Molybdenite | MoS2 | 1.0-2.0(1.0) | lubricants, catalysts |
| Monazite | (Ce,La,Nd,Th)PO4 | 5.0-5.5(5.0) | rare earth elements, ceramics |
| Monimolite | Cu(U6+,V5+)O4 | 1-10(3.5) | None |
| Montdorite | (Ca,Na)2(Mg,Fe2+,Mn2+)5Si8O22(OH)2 | 5-6(5.5) | ornamental stone |
| Mooreite | Mg3(UO2)2(VO4)2�8-10H2O | 2.0-3.0(2.5) | none |
| Mordenite | (Ca,Na2,K2)Al2Si10O24�7H2O | 5.0-6.0(5.5) | molecular sieves, catalysts |
| Morinite | NaCu(UO2)2(VO4)2�6-8H2O | 2-3(2.5) | rare mineral |
| Morogenite | (Ca,Na)2(Al,Si)3O8 | 1-10(6.5) | None |
| Morrisonite | Mg2+x(UO2)2(VO4)2�6-8H2O | 2-3(2.5) | rare mineral |
| Mosandrite | (Ca,Ce,Na,Th)(Ti,Nb)2(O,OH)7 | 5.0-6.0(5.5) | none |
| Mottramite | PbCu(VO4)(OH) | 3.5-4.0(3.5) | none |
| Motzfelsite | Na2Mg(CO3)2 | 1-10(3.0) | None |
| Mountainite | Ca2Na(UO2)2(VO4)2�6-8H2O | 2.0-3.0(2.5) | none |
| Mountkeithite | (Ni,Mg)4Si2O5(OH)4 | 2-3(2.5) | rare mineral |
| Muckite | NaFe3+3(AsO4)2(OH)4 | 3.0-4.0(3.5) | none |
| Mugearite | (Na,Ca)(Si,Al)4O8 | 6-7(6.5) | construction material |
| Muscoviite | KAl2(Si3Al)O10(OH,F)2 | 2.0-3.0(2.5) | electronics, construction |
| Muscovite | KAl2(Si3Al)O10(OH,F)2 | 2-3(2.5) | insulation, filler |
| Muthmannite | AgTe | 2.0-3.0(2.5) | none |
| Myrickite | Fe2+3Fe3+2(AsO4)2(OH)4 | 1-10(5.0) | None |
Descriptions
Macdonaldite
A bright-yellow, radioactive mineral that forms prismatic crystals. It is found in uranium deposits and is used as an indicator mineral for uranium exploration.
Macfallite
A rare copper-zinc sulfate hydroxide mineral. It forms pale blue or green, tabular to prismatic crystals.
Macfarlanite
A bright-yellow, radioactive mineral that forms prismatic crystals. It is found in uranium deposits and is used as an indicator mineral for uranium exploration.
Mackinawite
A bronze-colored, metallic mineral that forms thin, platy crystals. It is an iron sulfide mineral that is used in the production of steel and as a catalyst.
Macphersonite
A rare lead sulfate-chromate mineral that forms yellow to orange-yellow prismatic crystals.
Macquarieite
A pale green to white mineral that forms massive, granular aggregates. It is used as a decorative stone and for its aesthetic properties.
Madeleineite
A bright yellow, translucent mineral that forms prismatic crystals. It is used as a pigment and for radiation shielding due to its high density and low radioactivity.
Magadiite
A white to gray, silicate mineral that forms platy crystals. It has a variety of industrial applications, including use in ceramics, glass, and as a catalyst.
Maganite
A manganese oxide mineral with a steel-gray to black color. It forms prismatic to tabular crystals and is found in metamorphic and sedimentary rocks. Used as a pigment and in the production of steel and other alloys.
Maganocolumbite
A black, metallic mineral that forms octahedral crystals. It is a rare mineral that is primarily collected as a mineral specimen.
Magentite
A rare iron-manganese oxide mineral that forms metallic black to steel-gray crystals and masses.
Maghemite
A reddish-brown, magnetic mineral that forms cubic crystals. It is used as a pigment and in magnetic recording media, such as in computer hard drives.
Magnesioarfvedsonite
A blue to green, amphibole mineral that forms prismatic crystals. It is a relatively rare mineral that is primarily collected as a mineral specimen.
Magnesiochlorite
A green or brown chlorite mineral that forms from the alteration of other magnesium-rich minerals. It is commonly found in metamorphic rocks.
Magnesiochromite
A chromium-rich spinel group mineral with a black to dark green color. It is found in ultramafic igneous and metamorphic rocks and is used as a refractory material in the production of high-temperature ceramics and crucibles.
Magnesioferrite
A black, spinel-group mineral that forms octahedral crystals. It is used as a pigment and as a catalyst in various industrial processes.
Magnesiohornblende
Amphibole mineral with magnesium-rich composition. Forms long, prismatic crystals or fibrous aggregates, often in metamorphic and igneous rocks.
Magnesioludwigite
A green to black, borate mineral that forms prismatic crystals. It is a relatively rare mineral that is primarily collected as a mineral specimen.
Magnesioreevesite
A green to blue-green, nickel-bearing mineral that forms hexagonal crystals. It is a relatively rare mineral that is primarily collected as a mineral specimen.
Magnesiorichterite
A blue to green, amphibole mineral that forms prismatic crystals. It is a relatively rare mineral that is primarily collected as a mineral specimen.
Magnesioriebeckite
A sodium-magnesium-iron amphibole mineral with a blue-green to black color. It forms prismatic to fibrous crystals and is found in metamorphic and igneous rocks. Used as an ornamental stone and in the production of glass and ceramics.
Magnesiotaaffeite
A rare, colorless to pale blue beryllium aluminum oxide mineral. It is a rare gemstone variety of taaffeite.
Magnesite
A white to gray, carbonate mineral that forms rhombohedral crystals. It is used in refractory materials, as a filler, and as an abrasive.
Magnesite-Siderite Series
A solid solution series between the carbonate minerals magnesite (MgCO3) and siderite (FeCO3), with a range of compositions and properties.
Magnesium Silicate Hydroxide
A soft, white to greenish-white mineral with a fibrous or lamellar structure, used as a filler and absorbent material.
Magnesium-aluminum spinel
A hard, durable mineral that forms octahedral crystals. It is used in refractory materials and as an abrasive due to its high hardness and resistance to wear.
Magnesium-iron silicate
A greenish-white to yellow-green mineral that forms prismatic crystals. It is used in refractory materials and ceramic applications due to its high heat resistance and chemical stability.
Magnetite
A black, strongly magnetic mineral that forms octahedral crystals. It is an important iron ore and is used in the production of steel, as a pigment, and in the manufacture of magnets.
Magnolite
A hard, green to black mineral that forms octahedral crystals. It is used in refractory materials and as an abrasive due to its high hardness and resistance to wear.
Majorite
A rare, high-pressure silicate mineral that forms cubic crystals. It is primarily collected as a mineral specimen due to its scarcity and association with meteorite impacts.
Makovickyite
A rare lead-copper arsenate mineral that forms pale blue to green tabular crystals.
Malachite
A bright green, copper carbonate mineral that forms botryoidal or stalactitic aggregates. It is used as a pigment, a decorative stone, and in jewelry.
Malanite
A rare platinum-copper sulfide mineral that forms silver-gray hexagonal crystals. It is found in platinum-bearing ore deposits.
Malayaite
A calcium tin silicate mineral that forms yellowish-brown to brown crystals and compact masses.
Malinkoite
A rare, colorless to white sulfate mineral that forms monoclinic crystals. It is found in evaporite deposits and has limited practical applications.
Mallardite
A green, hydrous manganese sulfate mineral that forms from the oxidation of other manganese minerals.
Malmbjergite
A rare nickel-cobalt arsenide mineral that forms silvery-gray metallic crystals and masses.
Manasseite
A rare hydrous magnesium carbonate mineral that forms white to pale green platy crystals and foliated masses.
Manganarse
A rare manganese arsenide mineral that forms as a product of the alteration of other manganese-bearing minerals.
Manganaxinite
A brown to reddish-brown, borosilicate mineral that forms prismatic crystals. It is a relatively rare mineral that is primarily collected as a mineral specimen.
Manganbrodtkorbit
A rare manganese vanadate mineral that forms brown to black prismatic crystals.
Manganbrucite
A rare manganese hydroxide mineral that typically forms as an alteration product of other manganese-bearing minerals.
Mangancolumbite
A manganese-rich variety of the niobate-tantalate mineral columbite, often found in pegmatite deposits.
Manganese Oxide
A group of manganese oxide minerals, including pyrolusite, used in battery cathodes, pigments, and water treatment.
Manganian Calcite
A variety of the carbonate mineral calcite that contains significant amounts of manganese, giving it a pink or reddish color.
Manganite
A black to steel-gray, manganese oxide mineral that forms prismatic crystals. It is used as a pigment and as an ore of manganese, which is an important industrial metal.
Manganoarsenite
A brown to black, manganese arsenate mineral that forms octahedral crystals. It is a relatively rare mineral that is primarily collected as a mineral specimen.
Manganochromite
A chromium-bearing manganese spinel mineral that forms black octahedral crystals. It has been used as a pigment.
Manganocolumbite
A black, metallic mineral that forms octahedral crystals. It is a rare mineral that is primarily collected as a mineral specimen.
Manganogrunerite
A brown to black amphibole mineral that forms from the alteration of other manganese-rich minerals.
Manganohumite
A yellow to brown, magnesium silicate mineral that forms prismatic crystals. It is a relatively rare mineral that is primarily collected as a mineral specimen.
Manganolangbeinite
A rare, pink to purple potassium-manganese sulfate mineral that forms from evaporite deposits.
Manganonaujakasite
A rare, brown to black manganese-bearing silicate mineral found in manganese deposits.
Manganopectolite
A pink to red, silicate mineral that forms fibrous or radiating aggregates. It is a relatively rare mineral that is primarily collected as a mineral specimen.
Manganoquadratite
A rare manganese-bearing copper-zinc sulfide mineral that forms silver-gray to black crystals.
Manganosegelerite
A rare, green hydrous calcium-manganese vanadate mineral found in manganese deposits.
Manganosiderite
A manganese-rich variety of the carbonate mineral siderite, with a brown to reddish-brown color.
Manganostibite
A rare manganese antimonate mineral that forms gray to black prismatic crystals.
Manganotantalite
A black, metallic mineral that forms octahedral crystals. It is a rare mineral that is primarily collected as a mineral specimen.
Manganoviolite
A rare hydrous manganese and iron vanadate mineral that forms as a secondary mineral in vanadium-bearing deposits.
Mangazeite
A rare, green hydrous barium-manganese vanadate mineral found in manganese deposits.
Mapimite
Rare uranium vanadate mineral that forms yellow to greenish-yellow, tabular crystals or crusts. Occurs in arid, oxidizing environments with uranium and vanadium mineralization.
Marble
A metamorphic rock composed primarily of calcite or dolomite. Valued for its beauty and used extensively in construction, sculpture, and decorative applications.
Marcasite
A pale brass-yellow, iron sulfide mineral that forms orthorhombic crystals. It is used as a substitute for pyrite and as a pigment in some applications.
Margaritasite
A rare, platy mica-like mineral that typically forms white to pale green aggregates. It has limited practical applications due to its rarity.
Margarite
A white to pale gray, mica-group mineral that forms platy crystals. It is a relatively rare mineral that is primarily collected as a mineral specimen.
Margarosanite
A rare lead-calcium carbonate mineral that forms white to pale yellow prismatic crystals.
Marialite
A colorless to white, silicate mineral that forms tetragonal crystals. It is a relatively rare mineral that is primarily collected as a mineral specimen.
Maricite
A rare sodium-iron phosphate mineral that typically forms in iron-rich metamorphic and igneous environments.
Mariposaite
A sodium-iron pyroxene mineral with a green to blue-green color. It forms prismatic crystals and is found in metamorphic and igneous rocks. Used as an ornamental stone and in the production of glass and ceramics.
Mariposite
A green to yellow-green, chromium-bearing mica that forms foliated masses. It is used as a decorative stone and for its distinctive color and appearance.
Markascherite
A rare zinc-iron oxide mineral that forms black octahedral crystals.
Marshite
A bright scarlet, copper iodide mineral that forms cubic crystals. It is a relatively rare mineral that is primarily collected as a mineral specimen.
Marsturite
A rare hydrous calcium-manganese silicate mineral that forms brown to black prismatic crystals.
Martalite
A magnesium aluminum spinel mineral with a white to gray color. It forms octahedral crystals and is found in metamorphic and igneous rocks. Used as a refractory material in high-temperature applications, such as in the production of glass, ceramics, and metallurgical crucibles.
Marthozite
A dark gray to black, copper arsenic sulfide mineral that forms massive or granular aggregates. It is a rare mineral that is primarily collected as a mineral specimen.
Marylandite
A rare hydrous manganese and magnesium arsenate mineral that forms as an alteration product of other arsenic-bearing minerals.
Mascagnite
A white to colorless, sulfate mineral that forms cubic crystals. It is used as a fertilizer and as a chemical feedstock in various industrial processes.
Mascara
A lead oxide mineral with a bright red color. It forms orthorhombic crystals and is found in oxidized lead deposits. Used as a pigment in paints, cosmetics, and other products, as well as in the production of certain glass and ceramic items.
Massicot
A pale yellow, lead oxide mineral that forms orthorhombic crystals. It is used as a pigment and for radiation shielding due to its high density and low radioactivity.
Massicotite
A rare lead oxide mineral that forms yellow to orange masses. It has been used as a pigment.
Mathewrogersite
A pale green to blue-green, hydrous magnesium arsenate mineral that forms prismatic or acicular crystals. It is a rare mineral that is primarily collected as a mineral specimen.
Mathewrogerssite
A sodium-iron arsenate mineral with a yellow to brown color. It forms tabular to prismatic crystals and is found in oxidized arsenic deposits. An ore of arsenic, used in the production of various arsenic compounds.
Matsushimite
A rare copper-zinc vanadate mineral that forms blue to green prismatic crystals.
Maucherite
A rare, bronze-colored nickel arsenide mineral that forms in metamorphic and hydrothermal environments. It has limited practical applications due to its rarity.
Mauritanite
A rare manganese oxide mineral that forms as an alteration product of other manganese minerals in metamorphic and igneous environments.
Mawsonite
A rare, copper-tin-iron sulfide mineral that forms bronze-colored cubic crystals. It is found in volcanic and metamorphic rocks and has no significant commercial uses.
Maxwellite
A rare nickel-bearing spinel mineral that forms in metamorphic rocks and can be used as a tracer for nickel mineralization.
Mayenite
A white to gray, calcium aluminum oxide mineral that forms cubic crystals. It is used in refractory materials and as a catalyst due to its high hardness and chemical stability.
Mckelveyite-(Y)
A bright-yellow, radioactive mineral that forms prismatic crystals. It is found in uranium deposits and is used as an indicator mineral for uranium exploration.
Mcnearite
A rare calcium aluminum silicate mineral that forms white to gray prismatic crystals.
Meionite
A white to gray, carbonate-bearing silicate mineral that forms tetragonal crystals. It is a relatively rare mineral that is primarily collected as a mineral specimen.
Meixnerite
A rare hydrous magnesium-aluminum hydroxide mineral that forms white to green platy crystals.
Melaconite
A copper oxide mineral with a black or dark brown color. Used as a pigment and as an ore of copper. Typically found in weathered copper deposits.
Melanite
A black to dark brown, garnet-group mineral that forms dodecahedral crystals. It is a relatively rare mineral that is primarily collected as a mineral specimen.
Melanophlogite
A colorless to white, silica mineral that forms cubic crystals. It is a rare mineral that is primarily collected as a mineral specimen due to its unusual chemical composition and crystal structure.
Melcherite
A rare sodium-manganese silicate mineral that forms reddish-brown to black prismatic crystals.
Melilite
A yellow to green, silicate mineral that forms tetragonal crystals. It is used in refractory materials and as a component in some types of cement.
Melilitite
A rare calcium-magnesium-iron silicate mineral that forms in high-temperature volcanic environments.
Meliphanite
A white to light green, beryllium-bearing silicate mineral that forms tetragonal crystals. It is a relatively rare mineral that is primarily collected as a mineral specimen.
Mellilite
A group of calcium-magnesium-aluminum silicate minerals that are used as refractory materials due to their high melting point and resistance to chemical attack.
Mellite
A yellow to brown, organic mineral that forms tetragonal crystals. It is a rare mineral that is primarily collected as a mineral specimen.
Mendipite
A white to light gray, lead chloride oxide mineral that forms prismatic or acicular crystals. It is a relatively rare mineral that is primarily collected as a mineral specimen.
Mendozavilite
A rare, yellow to brown hydrous sodium iron sulfate mineral that forms in arid, evaporative environments. It has no significant commercial uses.
Meneghinite
A steel-gray to black, lead-copper-antimony sulfide mineral that forms prismatic or acicular crystals. It is a rare mineral that is primarily collected as a mineral specimen.
Menilite
A variety of opal with a brown, yellow, or gray color. It forms nodular or botryoidal masses and is found in sedimentary deposits. Used as an ornamental stone and in the production of certain types of ceramics.
Mennimite
A manganese-iron silicate mineral with a brown to black color. It forms prismatic to tabular crystals and is found in metamorphic and sedimentary deposits. An ore of manganese, used in the production of steel and other alloys.
Mercallite
A colorless to white, water-soluble mineral that forms as an evaporite deposit in volcanic and geothermal environments.
Mercuric Sulfide
A mercury sulfide mineral that occurs in two polymorphs, cinnabar (red) and metacinnabar (black). Historically used as a red pigment and in jewelry.
Mereheadite
A rare lead-copper arsenate mineral that forms blue to green prismatic crystals.
Merenskyite
A rare palladium-platinum telluride mineral that forms silver-white to gray metallic crystals.
Merlinoite
A rare, white to yellow zeolite mineral that forms in volcanic and metamorphic rocks. It has limited practical applications due to its rarity.
Merrilite
A rare calcium-sodium-magnesium phosphate mineral that forms in some meteorites.
Merrillite
A rare, white to gray phosphate mineral that is found in meteorites and some igneous rocks. It has no significant commercial uses.
Merwinite
A calcium-magnesium silicate mineral with a white to gray color. It forms monoclinic crystals and is found in metamorphic and igneous rocks. Used as a ceramic material in the production of refractory products, such as high-temperature furnace linings.
Mesitite
A rare magnesium-iron carbonate mineral that forms white to pale yellow rhombohedral crystals.
Mesolite
A white to colorless, zeolite mineral that forms fibrous or radiating aggregates. It is used in building materials and as a zeolite, which has various industrial applications.
Messelite
A rare uranium-vanadium hydrous mineral with a yellow to green color. It forms tabular to prismatic crystals and is found in sedimentary deposits. It has limited commercial uses due to its rarity and radioactivity.
Metaautunite
A yellow to green secondary uranium vanadate mineral that forms in oxidized uranium deposits. It has limited practical applications due to its radioactivity.
Metabrushite
A white to colorless hydrous calcium phosphate mineral that forms in guano deposits and some sedimentary environments. It has no significant commercial uses.
Metacinnabar
A black, mercury sulfide mineral that forms cubic crystals. It is used as a pigment and as an ore of mercury, which is an important industrial metal.
Metahaiweeite
A bright-yellow, radioactive mineral that forms prismatic crystals. It is found in uranium deposits and is used as an indicator mineral for uranium exploration.
Metahewettite
A bright-yellow, radioactive mineral that forms prismatic crystals. It is found in uranium deposits and is used as an indicator mineral for uranium exploration.
Metajohannite
A rare, green to yellowish-green secondary uranium vanadate mineral that forms in oxidized uranium deposits. It has limited practical applications due to its radioactivity.
Metakasolite
A bright-yellow, radioactive mineral that forms prismatic crystals. It is found in uranium deposits and is used as an indicator mineral for uranium exploration.
Metakleinite
A rare nickel-bearing arsenate mineral that typically forms as a secondary mineral in nickel-bearing deposits.
Metakoenigite
A rare hydrous uranium phosphate mineral that forms as a secondary mineral in uranium-bearing deposits.
Metalodevite
A bright green, hydrous zinc-copper vanadate mineral that forms monoclinic crystals. It is a relatively rare mineral that is primarily collected as a mineral specimen.
Metalunite
A bright-yellow, radioactive mineral that forms prismatic crystals. It is found in uranium deposits and is used as an indicator mineral for uranium exploration.
Metamictite
A group of minerals that have become amorphous due to radioactive decay. Their original structures have been disrupted.
Metamorphite
A group of metamorphic minerals that have undergone significant changes in their chemical or mineralogical composition due to heat and/or pressure. Used in decorative applications.
Metanatroalunite
A rare sodium aluminum sulfate hydroxide mineral that forms as an evaporite deposit in volcanic and geothermal environments.
Metanocerite
A rare calcium-cerium-sodium silicate-titanium-niobium mineral that forms brown to black prismatic crystals.
Metarauchite
A rare, green to blue-green hydrous nickel arsenate mineral that forms in oxidized nickel deposits. It has no significant commercial uses.
Metastibnite
A black, metallic, antimony sulfide mineral that forms prismatic or acicular crystals. It is used as a pigment and as an ore of antimony, which is an important industrial metal.
Metastudtite
A rare hydrous uranium oxide mineral that forms as a secondary mineral in uranium-bearing deposits.
Metaswitzerite
A rare, yellow to green secondary uranium vanadate mineral that forms in oxidized uranium deposits. It has limited practical applications due to its radioactivity and magnesium content.
Metatorbenite
A rare hydrous copper uranium vanadate mineral that forms as a secondary mineral in uranium-bearing deposits.
Metatorbernite
A rare hydrous copper uranium vanadate mineral that forms as a secondary mineral in uranium-bearing deposits.
Metauranocylite
A rare hydrous uranium vanadate mineral that forms as a secondary mineral in uranium-bearing deposits.
Metavauxite
A rare hydrous iron-aluminum phosphate mineral that typically forms in phosphate-bearing environments.
Metaviiksite
A rare hydrous uranium vanadate mineral that forms as a secondary mineral in uranium-bearing deposits.
Metavivianite
A hydrous iron phosphate mineral that forms as a secondary mineral in iron-bearing deposits.
Metavoltine
A bright-yellow, radioactive mineral that forms prismatic crystals. It is found in uranium deposits and is used as an indicator mineral for uranium exploration.
Metazellerite
A rare hydrous calcium uranium vanadate mineral that forms as a secondary mineral in uranium-bearing deposits.
Metazeuneri
te
A rare hydrous copper uranium arsenate mineral that forms as a secondary mineral in uranium-bearing deposits.
Metazeunerite
A bright-green, radioactive mineral that forms tabular or prismatic crystals. It is found in uranium deposits and is used as an indicator mineral for uranium exploration.
Metromorphite
A rare lead chloro-arsenate mineral that forms green to yellow prismatic crystals.
Metrophanite
A rare calcium-manganese titanate mineral that forms in calcium-rich metamorphic and igneous environments.
Meurigite
A rare, yellow to green secondary uranium vanadate mineral that forms in oxidized uranium deposits. It has limited practical applications due to its radioactivity.
Meyerhofferite
A rare calcium borate mineral that forms white to colorless prismatic crystals.
Miargyrite
A silver antimony sulfide mineral with a metallic luster, found in silver-bearing hydrothermal veins.
Micheelsenite
A nickel sulfide mineral with a bronze-yellow to dark gray color. It forms cubic crystals and is found in hydrothermal and metamorphic deposits. An ore of nickel, used in the production of various nickel alloys and compounds.
Michenerite
A rare, silver-white to pale yellow palladium-bismuth-telluride mineral that forms in hydrothermal veins. It has limited practical applications due to its rarity.
Micklinite
A rare bismuth-nickel-copper
Microlite
A rare, black to dark brown calcium-sodium tantalum oxide mineral that is sometimes used as a gemstone due to its attractive appearance.
Millerite
A rare, brass-yellow nickel sulfide mineral that forms in hydrothermal veins and some metamorphic rocks. It is a minor ore of nickel.
Mimetite
A rare, yellow to brown lead arsenate chloride mineral that forms in the oxidized zones of lead-bearing ore deposits. It has limited practical applications.
Miniulite
A manganese-iron-magnesium arsenic hydroxide mineral with a brown to black color. It forms monoclinic crystals and is found in oxidized manganese deposits. An ore of manganese, used in the production of steel and other alloys.
Minnesotagreenalite
A rare hydrous iron silicate mineral that forms green, fibrous masses.
Minrecordite
A rare, green hydrous calcium vanadate mineral that forms from the weathering of other vanadium minerals.
Mirabilite
A colorless to white, soft hydrous sodium sulfate mineral that forms in evaporite deposits and some saline lakes. It has limited practical uses.
Miraskite
A rare copper arsenate mineral that forms blue to green prismatic crystals.
Mirzaevite
A rare copper-iron arsenate mineral that forms blue to green prismatic crystals.
Mixtite
A rare, green to blue-green copper-iron oxide hydroxide mineral that forms in the oxidation zones of copper and iron deposits. It has no significant commercial uses.
Moissanite
A silicon carbide mineral with a colorless to yellow-green color. It forms hexagonal crystals and is found in meteorites and some volcanic rocks. Used as a gemstone and as a high-performance abrasive in industrial applications.
Molibdenite
A common molybdenum sulfide mineral that forms silver-gray to black, shiny hexagonal flakes. It is an important ore of molybdenum.
Molybdenite
A soft, gray to black molybdenum disulfide mineral that is the primary ore of molybdenum. Used in lubricants, catalysts, and other industrial applications.
Monazite
A rare-earth phosphate mineral that is an important source of thorium, cerium, and other rare earth elements. Used in ceramic products, catalysts, and for the recovery of rare earth metals.
Monimolite
A rare copper uranyl vanadate mineral that forms green to yellow crystals.
Montdorite
A calcium-sodium-magnesium-iron amphibole mineral with a green to brown color. It forms prismatic to fibrous crystals and is found in metamorphic and igneous rocks. Used as an ornamental stone and in the production of certain types of glass and ceramics.
Mooreite
A rare, yellow to green secondary uranium vanadate mineral that forms in oxidized uranium deposits. It has limited practical applications due to its radioactivity and magnesium content.
Mordenite
A white to off-white zeolite mineral that is used in industrial applications such as molecular sieves, ion-exchange materials, and catalysts.
Morinite
A rare sodium-copper uranium-vanadium hydrous mineral with a yellow to green color. It forms tabular to prismatic crystals and is found in sedimentary deposits. It has limited commercial uses due to its rarity and radioactivity.
Morogenite
A rare calcium-sodium aluminosilicate mineral that forms white to gray prismatic crystals.
Morrisonite
A rare magnesium uranium-vanadium hydrous mineral with a yellow to green color. It forms tabular to prismatic crystals and is found in sedimentary deposits. It has limited commercial uses due to its rarity and radioactivity.
Mosandrite
A rare, brown to yellow calcium-cerium-thorium titanium niobium oxide hydroxide mineral found in nepheline syenites and carbonatites. It has limited practical applications due to its rarity.
Mottramite
A rare, green to yellow-green copper-lead vanadate hydroxide mineral that forms in the oxidation zones of vanadium and copper deposits. It has no significant commercial uses.
Motzfelsite
A rare sodium-magnesium carbonate mineral that forms white to colorless prismatic crystals.
Mountainite
A rare, yellow to green secondary uranium vanadate mineral that forms in oxidized uranium deposits. It has limited practical applications due to its radioactivity and calcium-sodium content.
Mountkeithite
A rare nickel-magnesium silicate hydroxide mineral with a green to blue-green color. It forms fibrous to lamellar crystals and is found in serpentinized ultramafic rocks. It has limited commercial uses due to its rarity.
Muckite
A rare, yellow to brown hydrous sodium iron arsenate mineral that forms in arid, evaporative environments. It has no significant commercial uses.
Mugearite
A sodium-calcium aluminosilicate volcanic rock with a light gray to brown color. It forms aphanitic (fine-grained) to porphyritic textures and is found in basaltic volcanic deposits. Used as a construction material in the production of concrete, bricks, and other building products.
Muscoviite
A common, white to pale-colored mica mineral that is used in electronics, insulation, and construction materials.
Muscovite
A potassium aluminum silicate hydroxide-fluoride mineral with a silver-white to yellow color. It forms monoclinic crystals and is found in igneous and metamorphic rocks. Used as an insulating material, a filler in various products, and in the production of certain ceramics and electronics.
Muthmannite
A rare, silver-white to lead-gray silver telluride mineral that forms in hydrothermal veins. It has limited practical applications due to its rarity.
Myrickite
A rare iron arsenate mineral that forms green to brown prismatic crystals.
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