ClimateAugust 8, 2026
mineralogy
min-uh-RAL-uh-jee
Definition
The scientific study of minerals, including their composition, structure, and physical properties.
Etymology
Derived from the French 'minéralogie,' combining the root 'mineral' (from the Medieval Latin 'minerale') with the Greek suffix '-logia' (study of). It entered English in the late 18th century to describe the systematic classification of natural inorganic substances.
In the news
In the context of BRICS, mineralogy is essential for understanding the strategic control and supply-chain management of rare earth elements and raw materials necessary for the high-tech industry.
BRICS Industry Ministers Advance Supply-Chain Cooperation as Great Powers Era 2.0 Takes Shape
Read the full article ↗Rare Earth Exchanges