the oxide minerals

Oxide minerals are natural compounds made of metal elements combined with oxygen. They are common in Earth's crust and form through processes like oxidation or the cooling of magma. Examples include hematite and magnetite, which are important ores for extracting iron. These minerals often have a metallic luster and are usually hard and stable. They play a key role in geology, mineralogy, and industry, especially in metal extraction and pigmentation. Understanding oxide minerals helps us learn about Earth's history, resource availability, and material properties.