The following are the main characteristics of mineral resources:  1. Mineral resources are nonrenewable resources. The process of mineral formation is beyond human control and cannot be accelerated. 2. Mineral resources have a definite chemical composition. The composition of chemical is unique in every other mineral. 3. The minerals whatever the type cannot be used directly. They become usable only after they are processed and refined. 4. Minerals come from inorganic processes. That means there is no existence of life in the formation of minerals.  5. Minerals are mostly found in solid forms with a definite international structure.