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Hierarchical system of mineral species

Natural classification based on similarity of chemical composition and/or structure. Classification of mineral species is not established. Phylogenetic system will be discussed based on evolution of mineral species in the history of the earth. I hope the mineral evolution in the island arc formation process is summarized by describing minerals and mineral occurrences in Japan, a well matured island arc.

• Class
• Subclass
• Family
• Supergroup
• Group
• Series / Subgroup
• [ Species ]
• Polytype

For example:

• Silicate Class - Tectosilicate Subclass - Zeolite Family - [] - Chabazite Group - Erionite Series - Erionite-Ca
• Silicate Class - Sorosilicate Subclass - [] - Epidote Supergroup - Allanite Group - Allanite Series - Allanite-(Y)