The terms mineral, rock, crystal and gemstone are often used interchangeably, however each one indicates significant structural differences.
- MINERAL
A mineral is a naturally occurring solid substance that contains distinct crystalline structure and chemical compositions.
- ROCK
A rock is composed of several minerals combined and does not contain the specific chemical composition that would normally be found in a mineral.
- CRYSTAL
Most minerals occur naturally as crystals. A crystal is a solid material made up of ions, atoms and molecules, arranged in an orderly repeating pattern.
- GEMSTONE
A gemstone is a valuable mineral or crystal that has been cut and polished, often to use in jewellery.