ABSTRACT
The significance of minerals is reflected in the classification of major periods of human history in terms of the links between dominant technologies and specific resources. Copper, tin and iron were essential to the metal-using cultures of the Bronze and Iron Ages. The manufacture of metals of various types continues to be the most important application for mineral resources, but they are also used in construction and in the chemicals industry. Indeed much that we take for granted in modern society depends upon the exploitation of mineral resources.
