minera
/mɪˈnɪərə/Chiefly Alchemy. Now historical and rare
noun
The matrix in which a metal or precious stone was formerly believed to grow; the ore of a metal.
Origin
Mid 17th century. From post-classical Latin minera mineral, ore, variant (perhaps after forms in Old French or Anglo-Norman) of post-classical Latin minaria (also minarium, mineria) ore, mine from mina + -aria.