In 2001, the value of nonfuel mineral production in Nevada was estimated at $2.93 billion, a decrease of about 1.6% from that reported in 2000. Overall, Nevada accounted for 7.5% of the national nonfuel mineral production value. Gold production was 264,000 kg in 2001, and silver production was 612 metric tons. The state's mines provided 75% and 33% of the nation's gold and silver in 2001, respectively. Nevada remained the leading state in the production of gold, silver, mercury, barite, and lithium, and 2nd in the production of diatomite. It was the sole producer of mined magnesite, which is used in making refractories and magnesia. Nevada also ranked 5th in lead, 6th in perlite, and 7th in lime. Nevada ranked 2nd among the states in 2001 production value of nonfuel minerals.
Gold remained Nevada's most valuable mineral commodity, accounting for 81% of the state's total nonfuel value, or about $2.38 billion. Construction sand and gravel and silver were the state's next most valuable minerals ($157 and $98.3 million, respectively).