
Some mineral names can quickly yield important information about specimens. Learn how minerals get their names and how they're classified.
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In most cases, a mineral is named after one of its physical properties, the locality where it was first discovered, or in honor of a scientist or other personage. Many minerals with a long history of use also have names derived from the Greek and Latin languages.
The following are some examples of minerals named after their chemical composition, morphology, or typical color.









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In most cases, a mineral is named after one of its physical properties, the locality where it was first discovered, or in honor of a scientist or other personage. Many minerals with a long history of use also have names derived from the Greek and Latin languages.
The following are some examples of minerals named after their chemical composition, morphology, or typical color.
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Some mineral names can quickly yield important information about specimens. Learn how minerals get their names and how they're classified.
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