Minerals are substances that contain metals or metal compounds and are found in nature.

Ores are rocks and minerals that can be mined for metals in a cost-effective and convenient manner.

For example, there are many minerals that contain zinc, but not all of them can be mined in a practical and cost-effective manner. Zinc can be obtained from calamine (ZnCO₃), zinc blende (ZnS), and other sources. As a result, these minerals are classified as zinc ores.