An aluminosilicate soft white mineral named after the hill in China (Kao-ling) from which it was mined for centuries. In its natural state kaolin is a white, soft powder consisting principally of the mineral kaolinite, and varying amounts of other minerals such as muscovite, quartz, feldspar, and anatase. It is used in the manufacture of china and porcelain and also widely used in the production of paper, rubber, paint, drying agents, and many other products.