1. Silicates: These are the most abundant group of minerals, making up over 90% of the Earth's crust. They are characterized by the presence of the silicate anion (SiO4)4-. Examples include quartz, feldspar, and mica.

2. Non-silicates: This group encompasses all minerals that do not contain the silicate anion. It includes a wide variety of minerals with diverse chemical compositions and properties. Some common examples are carbonates (like calcite), sulfates (like gypsum), oxides (like hematite), and halides (like halite).