[Rockhounds] Re: What Is A Mineral? + human involvement

[DonH]

Hi,

 > The
> slag was obviously created by humans, but the minerals did form on them 
> by natural processes.  In most cases, it has been concluded that these 
> are valid species and is one of the reasons why Laurium has so many 
> unique minerals.


Not any more though--the commission decided that no nwe slag minerals 
would be named.

> Mercury is an example that does not conform to the crystallinity rule.  

We must keep in mind that mercury is a special case because it is a 
native element, and the rock-forming native elements have their own Dana 
class.  In this instance it would be silly to leave it out.

Don