Abstract: Attapulgite is a characteristic non−metallic mineral resource in China. However, it suffers from high levels of naturally associated minerals and significant grade fluctuations. The traditional “separation and purification” approach faces a triple paradox of technology, economy, and scale. In recent years, researchers have gradually focused on the new strategy of “high−value utilization of whole−mineral utilization of mixed−dimensional attapulgite clay”, redefining associated components from “impurities” to “functional units”. In other words, the direct conversion from raw mineral to advanced functional materials can be realized via nano−scale dissociation of the clay and synergistic interactions among its multiple components. This review focuses on recent advances in whole−mineral utilization of mixed−dimensional attapulgite clay, covering nano−scale dissociation methods (dry, wet, and semi−dry routes), synergistic mechanisms (topological features, surface chemistry, and physical field modulations), and diverse applications—especially aerogels. The relative merits and limitations of different technical approaches are compared, and the general application frameworks and governing boundary conditions are distilled. Finally, perspectives are offered on the challenges of industrialization and future directions, aiming to provide a holistic view for the high−value utilization of attapulgite resources.