This document summarizes the composition, causes, and pathophysiology of kidney stone formation. The majority of kidney stones are composed of calcium oxalate (70%) or calcium phosphate (20%). Stone formation can be caused by genetic factors like primary hyperoxaluria or environmental factors like diet, obesity, and geography. Stones form when substances in urine like calcium, oxalate, and phosphate become supersaturated and precipitate out to form crystals and stones. The pathophysiology depends on the stone composition, but involves factors like urinary pH, crystal nucleation, and substances that promote or inhibit precipitation.