Minerals are naturally occurring solids with a specific chemical composition and a distinctive, ordered internal structure, in contrast to rocks, which consist of variable mixtures of minerals.

Minerals can be classified by their chemistry, color, electrical conductivity, shape, luster, or other properties. Variations in color are often due to impurities within the atomic structure. The specimens in this collection are arranged by crystal system, or shape (see downloadable diagrams). There are seven crystal systems, which differ in the angles formed between the crystal faces.

The beauty and aesthetic appeal of crystals derive from macroscopic attributes such as symmetry, color, and luster. However, crystals also vividly illustrate how interactions between atoms produce rich, varied, and systematic arrangements of the inorganic constituents of solid matter. Consequently, they invite us to reflect on deeper questions about design and order in the fabric of nature (Madhiri, 2021).

Reference:

Madhiri N., 2021. The periodic table and design. In Gibson, L.J., Nalin, R., and Rasi, H.M. (eds.), Design and Catastrophe: 51 Scientists Explore Evidence in Nature. Andrews University Press, Berrien Springs, MI, pp. 9-12. Available at: grisda.org.