A mineral is considered a native element when it occurs naturally in its pure, uncombined form. This means it's not chemically bonded with any other elements.

Here are some key characteristics of native elements:

* Pure Element: They are composed of only one type of atom, like gold (Au), silver (Ag), or sulfur (S).

* Natural Occurrence: They are found in nature, not created artificially.

* Uncombined Form: They exist in their elemental state, not as compounds or minerals.

Examples of Native Elements:

* Metals: Gold, silver, platinum, copper, iron, mercury

* Non-metals: Diamond (carbon), sulfur, graphite (carbon), selenium

* Metalloids: Arsenic, antimony

It's important to note that some elements, like carbon, can occur in multiple native forms. For example, carbon can be found as both diamond and graphite.