2505 - Natural sands of all kinds, whether or not colored, other than metalbearing sands of chapter 26:

Category 2505 encompasses natural sands of all types, regardless of whether they are colored. This heading specifically excludes metal-bearing sands, which are classified under Chapter 26. These sands are characterized by their natural origin and composition, typically consisting of finely divided rock and mineral particles. Their utility spans various industries, including construction (as aggregate), glass manufacturing, and foundry operations, depending on their specific mineral makeup.

Unlike its sibling categories within Chapter 25, which cover a diverse range of mineral products such as salt, sulfur, earths, stone, plastering materials, lime, and cement, 2505 is exclusively dedicated to natural sand. For instance, while other headings might describe manufactured aggregates or processed minerals, this category focuses on raw, naturally occurring sand deposits.

Within category 2505, further distinctions are made through subcategories. Subheading 2505.10 specifically addresses silica sands and quartz sands, which are crucial for industries like glassmaking due to their high silica content. The residual category, 2505.90.00.00, covers all other types of natural sands that do not fall under the silica and quartz classification, such as common building sands or foundry sands with different mineralogical compositions.