Ores are naturally occurring minerals that are mined for their valuable metals or other elements. Synonyms for the word "ores" include minerals, deposits, vein, lode, coal, and fossil fuels. Minerals such as gold, silver, copper, and zinc are extracted from their respective ores. Ore is also a term used in geology to describe a concentration of minerals that is economically viable to extract. Some of the most common types of ores include bauxite, iron ore, uranium, and diamond. The extraction of ores is a integral part of mining, and plays a crucial role in the economy of many countries.