Minerals

The entire world is covered in natural resources. Some of these resources are very limited and should be used efficiently.
 
A mineral is a naturally occurring substance that is solid and inorganic with a distinctive chemical structure. There are thousands of known minerals. All these different minerals have to get approved by the International Mineralogical Association.
 
Minerals are basic and essential raw materials that we can find all around us. These minerals are vital for economic, social and technological development.
 
Minerals can be described by a variety of physical properties that relate to their chemical structure and composition. Some common characteristics include crystal structure, hardness and color.
 
There is very little we do that does not involve rocks and minerals and the metals we extract from them. Minerals have many functions including building materials that go into almost every part of construction, appliances, jewellery, paint, fertilizer, machinery and utensils to name a few.
 
Minerals are non-renewable natural resources that are very important to the construction, manufacturing and energy industries. The goal of sustainable mineral development is to ensure that the use of minerals is kept to a minimum amount without having any negative impact on the economic growth of a country. This can easily be achieved by the efficient use of minerals as well as recycling and the use of alternative materials.
 
South Africa is well known for its abundance of mineral resources. Some of the most important minerals in our country is gold, diamonds, iron, titanium, manganese and coal. Minerals play a vital role in our daily lives as well as our economic. 

To find minerals in South Africa, browse our Yellowpages Listings.