Which of the following is a general characteristic shared by all minerals?

Introduction / Context:
This question comes from earth science and geology. Minerals are the building blocks of rocks and are defined by several key characteristics. The question asks which property or properties apply to all minerals, testing your understanding of the formal definition of a mineral.

Given Data / Assumptions:
- The options list three properties: crystalline solids, inorganic nature, and natural formation. - Option D suggests that all listed properties may be correct. - The commonly accepted definition of a mineral is assumed.

Concept / Approach:
A mineral is generally defined as a naturally occurring, inorganic, crystalline solid with a definite chemical composition and an ordered internal structure. Thus, minerals are solid, formed in nature, and made of inorganic material. They also have a crystalline structure, meaning that atoms are arranged in an orderly repeating pattern.

Step-by-Step Solution:
1. Check property A: Minerals are crystalline solids. This is part of the formal definition. 2. Check property B: Minerals are inorganic. They are not formed by organic processes such as life in most standard definitions. 3. Check property C: Minerals are formed by natural processes, not manufactured in a laboratory. 4. Since all three statements match the definition, all of them are correct. 5. Therefore, the correct answer is that all of the above are characteristics of minerals.

Verification / Alternative check:
Geology textbooks and reference guides consistently define minerals using these same three criteria, along with definite chemical composition. This agreement across sources confirms the answer.

Why Other Options Are Wrong:
Each of the individual properties A, B, or C is correct but incomplete by itself. Choosing only one property would ignore the other essential characteristics of minerals.

Common Pitfalls:
Some learners focus on only one aspect, such as crystallinity, and forget that minerals must also be naturally occurring and inorganic. Remembering the full definition avoids such mistakes and helps in more advanced geology topics.

Final Answer:
All minerals share the characteristics listed, so the correct choice is All of the above.