Strunz Classification

The Strunz system divides minerals into 10 classes based on their dominant chemical anion or bond type — from pure metallic elements to complex silicates. Developed by mineralogist Hugo Strunz in 1941 and maintained by the IMA, it is the universal reference in scientific mineralogy. The colored number on each card is the Strunz class number.

Native Elements

Native Elements

Gold, Copper, Sulfur, Diamond

Sulfides

Pyrite, Galena, Chalcopyrite, Sphalerite

Halides

3 MeX (X = F, Cl)

Fluorite, Halite, Sylvite

Oxides

Quartz, Corundum, Hematite, Rutile

Carbonates

Calcite, Malachite, Azurite, Rhodochrosite

Sulfates

Barite, Gypsum, Celestite, Anglesite

Arsenates

8 PO₄³⁻, AsO₄³⁻

Apatite, Turquoise, Vivianite, Pyromorphite

Phosphates

8 PO₄³⁻, AsO₄³⁻

Apatite, Turquoise, Vivianite, Pyromorphite

Vanadates

8 PO₄³⁻, AsO₄³⁻

Apatite, Turquoise, Vivianite, Pyromorphite

Silicates

Quartz, Feldspar, Tourmaline, Garnet, Mica

Special categories

These specimens fall outside the standard Strunz mineralogical classification.

Meteorite

Extraterrestrial material that has fallen to Earth. Includes chondrites, achondrites, iron meteorites and stony-iron types. Not part of the Strunz classification.

Molybdates

Minerals containing the molybdate anion MoO₄²⁻. Typically form in oxidized zones of Mo-bearing ore deposits. Includes Wulfenite and Powellite. Strunz sub-group 7.

Tungstates

Minerals containing the tungstate anion WO₄²⁻. Found in oxidized zones of W-bearing deposits. Includes Scheelite and Wolframite. Strunz sub-group 7.