Asbestos is a mineral.
It is mined in much the same way that other minerals, such as iron, lead, and copper are mined. There are many varieties of asbestos. The three most common are chrysotile, amosite and crocidolite. Chrysotile fibers are pliable and cylindrical, and often arranged in bundles. Amosite and crocidolite fibers are like tiny needles.