Glossary of Terms

Group

1) An aggregate of crystals.

2) Synonym of crystal group.

3) The scientific classification of minerals based on their chemical structure or crystal structure.

4) A scientifically recognized selection of minerals that are very similar in their chemical makeup. See also series. All groups have a specific group name, and individual minerals are also categorized. A mineral in the group may carry the same name as the group name. An example is the Olivine Group, which contains the minerals Forsterite, Olivine, and Fayalite.