In 2000, miners in Naica, Mexico made a remarkable discovery when they stumbled upon the Cave of Crystals, a subterranean wonder filled with massive, milky-white gypsum crystals, some of which were as large as telephone poles. The crystals within the cave grew gradually over millions of years due to the slow cooling of mineral-rich, calcium sulfate-rich waters. Gypsum emerged as the dominant mineral, giving rise to these extraordinary formations. It took nearly a million years for the crystals to reach a thickness of just one meter, highlighting the remarkable patience of nature. Today, researchers face the challenge of preserving these unique crystals. The cave's drainage has exposed the crystals to the risk of dehydration and cracking, given their soft nature. Nevertheless, the Cave of Crystals remains an enigmatic and awe-inspiring geological formation, and ongoing research continues to explore similar gypsum deposits found in various parts of the world.

 

The cave is known for its extremely harsh and dangerous environmental conditions. The temperature inside the cave is approximately 50 °C (122 °F), with a relative humidity of over 90%. These extreme conditions make it difficult for humans to endure, and sweating does not have a cooling effect in such a high-humidity, high-temperature environment. Researchers and explorers are limited to spending only brief periods of time in the cave, typically around 10-15 minutes at a time, due to the extreme heat and humidity. Additionally, the cave's treacherous terrain, featuring slick gypsum formations, poses a significant risk of falling or getting lost, making it a hazardous location to explore. This geological marvel has been the subject of extensive research, shedding light on the fascinating process of crystal formation. 

 

Please read the article for the details of the photo. It is incredible! https://cen.acs.org/.../Naicas-crystal-cave.../97/i6
Photo Credit: Javier Trueba/MSF/Science Source