When did the mining industry start?

it started sometime during the 19th and 20th century.

or

In the Ancient Orient a unified China recorded in detail mining for profit. Later similar Egyptian, Greek, Roman, and other peoples operated mines near 2,000 BC as recorded in Egyptian scrolls.

This question depends on what type of mining. Modern - Industrial Revolution Mining began in the late 1700's. By the 19th Century large mines were operational around the World. Seeking Gold for Tribal Art with basic tools has followed the history of human development.