The rock cycle is relevant to the study of minerals and gemstones because it explains how they are formed. Minerals form at different points of the cycle.

	6.Rock of Continental Crust
1.Erosion, Transport, Deposition		5.Igneous Rock
2.Sediment		4.Metamorphic Rock
	3.Sedimentary Rock

The rock cycle shown above operates in an anticlockwise direction.

If we begin at point 1, products of erosion, transport and deposition become sedimentary rock (on a long time scale) after being subjected to pressure by compaction. Then metamorphism may occur (rocks are altered by heat and or pressure) and there may be chemical reactions and the formation of metamorphic rock.

When metamorphic or sedimentary rocks subside they may reach depths at which internal processes can melt rock and convert it to magma. When this rises to the surface (via volcanoes) igneous rock is formed. If uplift occurs erosion, transportation and deposition begin again.

These processes are occurring today and have done throughout the earth's history. Minerals and gemstones are formed at different points on the cycle.