Many of us have nothing against draping ourselves in gold jewellery, and most of us like the snug and warm sensation provided by central heating in the winter. But have you ever thought about how these modern luxuries or creature comforts wouldn't be possible were it not for the establishment and development of mining?

Mining is one of the most important industries to many a national economy. Let's take a brief look at some of the biggest mining countries in the world to get an impression of just how much the industry means to them.

Russia

Among the minerals and metals being mined in the vast Russian territory are iron ore, copper, coal, diamonds, uranium, gold, natural gas and more.

The mining industry in Russia is of great importance to the national economy with some of the country's biggest companies directly involved in the extraction of metals and minerals. You may well recognise names like Gazprom, ALROSA, Norilsk Nickel and more. Due to their control over the mining industry, these companies hold great power and influence over the government as well.

South Africa

Thanks to mining, South Africa has established itself as the richest and most advanced economy on the African continent. Some of the most valuable minerals and metals found locally include diamonds, gold, coal and chromium.

Recently, South Africa has received a lot of negative publicity for the way its government and police forces have dealt with miners striking for better pay.

Ukraine

Not many people are aware of the important role mining plays in Ukraine's economy. In fact, the industry accounts for over 4 per cent of the country's GDP.

The Eastern European country is home to the National Mining University of Ukraine, originally founded to prepare highly qualified specialists to handle the development of the industry. Nowadays, however, a range of degrees unrelated to mining are on offer too.

Australia

In Australia, you can find a variety of mines: coal, uranium, opal, zinc and more.

In some cases, where the mines are located in the middle of the hot desert, people have been forced to live and build an infrastructure underground to avoid heat and sunstroke. The town of Coober Pedy even boasts an underground church. Many locals make a living working in the nearby opal mines.

Mines worldwide have their differences, but are mostly very similar. They are often located in remote areas so employees live on site in temporary housing. For any operation to be deemed safe, elements such as mine ventilation have to be in place to ensure a flow of fresh air into the underground system, and avoid the build up of dangerous gases.