MINING COMPANIES IN TURKEY

MINERALS IRON ORES AND CONCENTRATES Iron ores are rocks and minerals from which metallic iron can be economically extracted. The ores are usually rich in iron oxides and vary in color from dark grey, bright yellow, deep purple, to rusty red. The iron itself is usually found in the form of magnetite (Fe3O4), hematite (Fe2O3), goethite (FeO(OH)), limonite (FeO(OH).n(H2O)) or siderite (FeCO3). MAGNETITE Magnetite is best known for its property that it is strongly attracted to magnets. Some forms of Magnetite from specific localities are in fact themselves magnets. This form is known as Lodestone, and is the only mineral that acts as a natural magnet. Although its magnetism is weak, it is strong enough to attract large nails. Due to its magnetic properties, small iron particles are often found clinging to its surfaces. Some dealers intentionally place metallic filings on a Lodestone to demonstrate its magnetism. HEMATITE Hematite is one of the most common minerals. The color of most red and brown rock, such as sandstone, is caused by small amounts of Hematite. It is also be responsible for the red color of many minerals such as Garnet, Spinel, and to some extent, Ruby. Non-crystalline forms of Hematite may be transformations of the mineral Limonite that lost water, possibly due to heat.

MINERALS NATURAL STEATITE, TALC Talc is known for being the softest mineral on earth. It is number 1 on the Mohs hardness scale, and can be easily scratched by a fingernail. Talc is not commonly seen in collections, as it is usually uninteresting and fairly common, although a few deeply colored and crystallized examples are known and well sought after. Also very popular are the Talc pseudomorphs. Talc forms some very interesting pseudomorphs after many different minerals, and certain localities are known for the specific minerals replaced by Talc. Talc is a very important industrial mineral. Talc is crushed into powder to form talcum powder, which is the main ingredient in many cosmetics as well as some baby powders. Talcum powder was also used as a filler to prevent slipping in latex gloves, although its use is being replaced with corn starch which is safer for inhalation. Talc is highly resistance to heat and electricity, and is therefore used in electronics and as an insulator. It is also a filler material for paints, rubber and insecticides.

MINERALS OTHER MINERAL SUBSTANCES VERMICULITE, SEPIOLITE, ARSENIC SULFUR, ZIRCONIUM SILICATE

MINERALS GYPSUM, ANHYDRITE, PLASTERS Gypsum is a mineral containing calsium sul­ fate in its chemical composition. In addition to natural Gypsum, synthetic gypsum is pro­ duced as well. Important gypsum sources include ankm orum, Yozgat, Erzincan, Ankara-Bala, Sivas, Kars-Kağızman, Tuzluca, Denizli-Sarayköy and Niğde-Karakol.

MINERALS FELDSPAR Feldspar is an aluminosilicate mineraland is classified into three groups accordingto the element in its composition: potassium, sodi­um and calcium feldspars. It is widely pro­ duced in WestAnatolia in Milas, Yatagan, Karpuzlu and Simav.