Minerals are naturally occurring inorganic solids with a definite structure and composition. They form through natural geological processes and have five defining characteristics: they are inorganic, solid, have a specific chemical composition and crystal structure, and form in nature. There are over 4000 known minerals that make up the Earth's crust, with the most common being silicates like feldspar and quartz, as well as calcite. Minerals form through the cooling of magma or crystallization from solution, with their crystal structure and composition determined by the conditions of formation.