What do minerals refer to in real estate context?

In the context of real estate, minerals refer to natural substances that are found underground. This definition encompasses a wide variety of materials, including but not limited to coal, oil, natural gas, and various metallic and non-metallic minerals. Understanding this definition is essential for real estate professionals as it pertains to property rights and land use. When a property owner sells land, they may also have the right to the minerals beneath that land, which can affect the overall value and potential uses of the property.

The other options do not accurately capture the definition of minerals as understood in real estate. Products made from soil, while relevant in agriculture, do not reflect the underground mineral resources. Heirlooms and artifacts are related to cultural or historical items rather than geological resources. Similarly, when considering only gemstones, this is a narrow focus that does not encompass the broader range of mineral types that impact real estate transactions. Thus, the correct answer accurately aligns with the established terminology and legal considerations pertaining to mineral rights in the field of real estate.