Uses of Minerals

Quartz is used to make watches and glass. Windows, eye glasses and mirrors are all made from Quartz.

Battery electrodes, crucibles, and electrodes for arc furnaces are all made from Graphite. Also the "lead" in pencils is actually Graphite, NOT the mineral Lead (galena).

Hematite, or Iron ore, is used to make Iron and Steel. Many things are made from Iron and Steel such as screws and nails as well as pots and pans.

Gypsum is the primary component of drywall (aka gypsum board). This material is fire resistant which is why it is used for walls and ceilings.

Gold is used for electronics. Because it doesn't rust and it conducts electricity, it is used for circuit boards. It is also used for jewelry.

Diamond being the hardest mineral is used for cutting tools. Corundum is used in sandpaper and sharpening and creation of Aluminum. Ruby and Sapphire are both forms of Corundum. Both Diamond, Sapphire and Ruby are used for jewelry.

Halite is also called rock salt. It is used for salting roads, or when very pure, it can be used for food.

Fluorite is used in toothpaste to make Fluoride which helps to prevent tooth decay and help teeth last longer.

Because of how soft this mineral is, Talc is used for baby powder. It is also used in the production of rubber.

Explore this chart (and activity) showing uses of Minerals in your house!