Uses of Rocks and Minerals

 

 

Fascinating Fact

The most common mineral on Earth is quartz.

 

Have you ever wondered what the world would be like without rocks? You may not know it, but if we took all the rocks away, we would have a miserable life. We use rocks for roads, metals, jewelry, tombstones, building materials, cosmetics, and many, many more things. Most of the famous sculptures of the world are made from blocks of stones such as granite and marble. Did you know that the Great Wall of China and the Taj Mahal are made out of rocks? We also collect rocks as a hobby. If we did not have rocks, this Earth would be pretty empty. Who wants an empty Earth? Not me!

To better help you understand the importance of rocks, study the table below of some of the most commonly used rocks and minerals.

 

The Importance of Rocks and Minerals

 

Name

Type of Rock

Use

Basalt
 
Igneous
Used in road building
materials
Calcite
Mineral
Used in cements and mortars and the production of lime
Granite
Igneous
Used for buildings, monuments, and tombstones
Marble
Metamorphic
Used in building, floors, tile in bathrooms
Obsidian
Igneous
Used in making arrowheads and knives
Pumice
Igneous
Used in scouring, scrubbing, and polishing materials
Quartz
Mineral
Used in making glass, electrical components, and optical lenses
Sandstone
Sedimentary
Used in the building
industry for houses
Slate
Metamorphic
Used for roofs, chalkboards, and patio walks

 

 

(source)