1. Mineral Fragments: These are tiny pieces of pre-existing rocks that have been broken down by weathering. Examples include quartz grains, feldspar fragments, and mica flakes.
2. Biogenic Material: This includes the remains of organisms, such as shells, bones, teeth, and plant matter. These can form entire rocks like limestone (made of shells) or coal (made of plant remains).
3. Chemical Precipitates: These are minerals that crystallize directly from water solutions. Examples include halite (rock salt), gypsum, and calcite.