The Chemical Classification of Gems & Minerals

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The Chemical Classification of Gems & Minerals

Class Description
Class I: Pure Elements Metals, alloys, semi-metals and non-metals
Class II: Sulfides Sulfur is the principal anion: includes tellurides and arenides
Class III: Halides Halogen elements are anions: F, Cl, Br
Class IV: Oxides Oxygen is the principal anion, included hydroxides in which the hydroxyl radical (OH) acts as the anion
Class V a:Carbonates Carbonate radical (CO3) is the principal anion
Class V b:Borates Borate radical (BO3) and boate groups are anions
Class VI a:Tungstates Anions are principally WO4
Class VI b:Sulphates sulphate radical (SO4) is the principal anion
Class VII: Phosphates Anions are principally PO4
Class VIII: Silicates Silicate groups as anions combining with other elements: includes silica SiO2