The phrase "crystalline minerals" refers to minerals that have a specific arrangement of atoms in a repeating pattern, creating a crystal structure. These minerals often have a distinct shape and appearance, such as gemstones. Full definition
Bladder stones are caused by excessive amounts of crystalline minerals in the urine. (tampabayvets.net)
After extracting the particles and analyzing them with powerful x-rays, the researchers were intrigued to find that the grains contained crystalline minerals; astronomical measurements had indicated that cosmic rays whipping around the galaxy destroy most crystals. (sciencemag.org)
Bacterial infections, bladder stones, and excessive amounts of crystalline minerals in the urine all cause irritation to the bladder wall. (boyetteanimalhospital.com)