1. Naturally occurring: Minerals are formed by natural processes within the Earth, not by human intervention.

2. Inorganic: They are not derived from living organisms.

3. Solid: Minerals exist in a solid state at room temperature and pressure.

4. Definite chemical composition: Each mineral has a specific chemical formula that defines its composition.

5. Ordered internal structure: Atoms in a mineral are arranged in a specific, repeating pattern, giving it a crystalline structure.

These five characteristics help define what a mineral is and distinguish it from other materials like rocks, which are composed of multiple minerals, or glass, which does not have a definite chemical composition or ordered internal structure.