Information on Minerals and Mining

Everybody who drives a car, uses a phone, or even lives in a building depends on minerals. Did you know that a hybrid vehicle contains more than double the amount of copper than a conventional car? As we adopt new technologies and goods in our society, one thing that will never change is our reliance on mineral resources.

Mining played an enormous role in Arizona’s past and it plays an even bigger role today. Arizona is consistently one of the top two most important mineral producing states each year. Arizona mines are at the forefront of technology and sustainability in mining.

The Historic Pima Courthouse in Tucson houses the University of Arizona Gem and Mineral Museum with 12,000 square feet of exhibit space and many interactive exhibits in three major galleries: Mineral Evolution, Arizona Gallery, & Gem Gallery.