The caves located within the Ag-Pb-Zn mine of Naica (Mexico) in a depth range between -130m and -290m below entrance level constitute a unique karst environment. The distinctive characteristics of these caves (Las Espadas, Los Cristales, Ojio de la Reina, and Las Velas) are the lack of direct interconnection with the land surface, an actual groundwater T of about 53 °C, and the presence of gigantic selenite crystals (> 10m in length). Here, we report the results of an ongoing multi-disciplinary study that considers the vertical extent of the cave system, and tha is aimed at determining the genesis of these crystals.
A tale of precipitation and growth of giant selenite crystals within the caves of Naica (Chiuhahua, Mexico)
GAROFALO, PAOLO;
2008
Abstract
The caves located within the Ag-Pb-Zn mine of Naica (Mexico) in a depth range between -130m and -290m below entrance level constitute a unique karst environment. The distinctive characteristics of these caves (Las Espadas, Los Cristales, Ojio de la Reina, and Las Velas) are the lack of direct interconnection with the land surface, an actual groundwater T of about 53 °C, and the presence of gigantic selenite crystals (> 10m in length). Here, we report the results of an ongoing multi-disciplinary study that considers the vertical extent of the cave system, and tha is aimed at determining the genesis of these crystals.File in questo prodotto:
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