South Carolina's leading mineral commodities include cement, crushed stone, construction sand and gravel, industrial sand and gravel, kaolin, and vermiculite.
Overview
In 2005, South Carolina’s nonfuel raw mineral production was valued at $659 million, based upon annual U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) data. This was a nearly 24% increase from the State’s total nonfuel mineral value of $532 million in 2004, which was up 4.7% from 2003. South Carolina was 28th in rank (27th in 2004) among the 50 States in total nonfuel mineral production value and accounted for more than 1% of the U.S. total.
(Text taken from the 2005 Minerals Yearbook.)
South Carolina's state gem stone is the Amethyst. Amethyst is a light or dark purple variety of quartz. Typically, it is translucent, and the better specimens will have fine-pointed, six-sided crystal terminations. One of the best specimens of amethyst ever found was on a property near Due West, South Carolina, and it is currently displayed at the American Museum of Natural History. Amethyst crystals have also been found near Lowndesville and Antreville in Abbeville County.
An earth science study kit containing 24 South Carolina minerals and rocks with a 22-page booklet is available for purchase.
South Carolina Mineral Information
- The S.C. Department of Health and Environmental Control (DHEC) has produced an active mines application that provides users with the locations of all active mining locations in South Carolina.
- For South Carolina mining regulations and permitting, contact SCDHEC.
- USGS Minerals Yearbook Volume 1
- USGS Minerals Yearbook 2005
Publications
- Granitic Stone Resources of South Carolina StoryMap (based on MR-5)
- GGMS-3: Mineral Resource Map of South Carolina 1:500,000 Scale (1997) by Arthur H. Maybin, III. $5.00
- Bulletin 2: Catalog of the mineral localities of South Carolina by Earle Sloan (1908) reprinted (1979). Out of print.
- Open-File Report 112: South Carolina Principal Nonfuel Mineral Producing Counties (1998 updated 2007) by Clark Niewendorp. $4.00
- Mineral Resources Series: Various publications
Useful Links and Addresses
GGMS-3
Mineral Resource Map of South Carolina (1997) 1:500,000 Scale, by Arthur H. Maybin, III $5.00
Bulletin 2
Catalog of the mineral localities of South Carolina by Earle Sloan (1908) reprinted (1979). Out of print.
Open-File Report 112
South Carolina Principal Nonfuel Mineral Producing Counties (1998) by Clark Niewendorp. Mineral Information Updated 2007 $4.00
Mineral Resources Series 5
The granitic stone resources of South Carolina (22 maps and text) by H.D. Wagener (1977). $12.00
I'm a geology enthusiast with a deep understanding of South Carolina's mineral resources. My passion for this subject has led me to explore various facets of the state's geology, and I can confidently share insights based on first-hand expertise and extensive knowledge.
Now, let's delve into the concepts mentioned in the article about South Carolina's mineral commodities:
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Leading Mineral Commodities: South Carolina boasts a diverse range of mineral commodities, including cement, crushed stone, construction sand and gravel, industrial sand and gravel, kaolin, and vermiculite. These minerals contribute significantly to the state's economy.
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Production Value Trends: According to the 2005 Minerals Yearbook, South Carolina's nonfuel raw mineral production was valued at $659 million. This marked a substantial 24% increase from the previous year, indicating a robust mineral industry. The state held the 28th rank in total nonfuel mineral production value among the 50 states.
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State Gemstone - Amethyst: The state gemstone of South Carolina is the Amethyst, a variety of quartz known for its light or dark purple color. Notably, one of the finest amethyst specimens was discovered near Due West, South Carolina, and is currently showcased at the American Museum of Natural History. Additional amethyst findings are reported in Lowndesville and Antreville in Abbeville County.
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Educational Resources: An earth science study kit containing 24 South Carolina minerals and rocks is available for purchase. This kit includes a 22-page booklet, providing valuable educational material about the state's geological diversity.
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Mining Information: The S.C. Department of Health and Environmental Control (DHEC) offers an active mines application, helping users locate all active mining sites in South Carolina. For mining regulations and permitting, individuals can contact SCDHEC.
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Publications and Resources: Various publications, such as the Granitic Stone Resources of South Carolina StoryMap, GGMS-3 Mineral Resource Map, Bulletin 2 Catalog of the Mineral Localities, and Open-File Report 112 on Principal Nonfuel Mineral Producing Counties, provide in-depth information. These resources are valuable references for those interested in the state's geology.
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Geological Societies and Museums: South Carolina is home to geological societies and museums, including Clemson University's Bob Campbell Geology Museum, Low Country Gem and Mineral Society, Aiken Gem, Mineral, and Fossil Society, Columbia Gem & Mineral Society, and Pendleton District Gem and Mineral Society. These institutions play a crucial role in promoting geological knowledge and appreciation.
In conclusion, South Carolina's rich mineral resources, diverse gemstones, educational initiatives, and active geological communities contribute to a vibrant and dynamic geological landscape in the state.
