Clay mining involves the extraction of clay, a natural material composed of fine-grained minerals. This process typically takes place in open-pit mines, where layers of soil and rock are removed to access the clay deposits beneath. Clay is used in various industries, including ceramics, construction, and pottery, due to its plasticity and ability to harden when fired. The mining process includes several steps, such as drilling, blasting, and transporting the clay to processing facilities. Once extracted, the clay is often refined to remove impurities and improve its quality. This refined clay is then used to create products like bricks, tiles, and ceramic items.