Economic Geology - The study of geological materials, such as metallic and non-metallic minerals, coal, oil and gas, that have economic or industrial value. Economic geologists use geological principles to study and identify new deposits of earth materials with economic value.
Mineral deposits are sometimes classified as metallic and non-metallic. Metallic mineral resources are important sources of metals used in everyday life in coins, electrical wires, cars, buildings and jewelry. Metallic mineral deposits are formed in igneous or metamorphic rocks. Non-metallic mineral deposits include resources such as aggregate (sand and gravel) and dimension stone (stone used for building facings, floors or countertops). Information on coal, oil, natural gas and other energy resources is available on the Energy Resources page.
Aggregate - sand, gravel, crushed stone, slag, or other material used for concrete, roads, and other purposes.
Dimension Stone - rock that is quarried for use in buildings as floors, counters or facings.