| After the discovery of silver deposits in Christiansdorf - the now called Freiberg - over the time the mining was also expanded on the upper mountain. Thus from about 1240, the tin deposits (with the beginnings of subsurface mining also silver) around Ehrenfriedersdorf was mined. By finding rich si ... moreAfter the discovery of silver deposits in Christiansdorf - the now called Freiberg - over the time the mining was also expanded on the upper mountain. Thus from about 1240, the tin deposits (with the beginnings of subsurface mining also silver) around Ehrenfriedersdorf was mined. By finding rich silver adits in the 2nd third of the 15th Century the great mountain towns like Schneeberg (municipal law since 1477) and Annaberg (municipal law since 1496) was founded. (Article in german) |
| The term used in the plural "pyrites" has often been misused in the past or in common for marcasite, chalcopyrite, pyrrhotite and other yellow to brass-colored minerals. The word pyrite is derived from the Greek "pyrites lithos" (derived pyr = fire and lithos = stone) and describes a characteristic ... moreThe term used in the plural "pyrites" has often been misused in the past or in common for marcasite, chalcopyrite, pyrrhotite and other yellow to brass-colored minerals. The word pyrite is derived from the Greek "pyrites lithos" (derived pyr = fire and lithos = stone) and describes a characteristic of the mineral, when rubbing against steel or flint (flint) to generate sparks. In prehistoric tombs pyrite concretions and unrolled pyrite where found, which supposed to be used for lighting a fire. (Article in German) |
| From early tunnel construction in the 18th century to its final closure in the 1950s, the Frankenholz Mine in Germany’s Saar region was a key site of coal mining history. With ambitious shaft projects, its own cableway connection to Bexbach, and remarkable geological features – including fossil disc ... moreFrom early tunnel construction in the 18th century to its final closure in the 1950s, the Frankenholz Mine in Germany’s Saar region was a key site of coal mining history. With ambitious shaft projects, its own cableway connection to Bexbach, and remarkable geological features – including fossil discoveries and natural oil seepages – the mine reflects both the rise of industrial progress and the dangers of underground work. Gas explosions, water ingress, and tragic accidents shaped the lives of thousands of miners. Frankenholz remains a compelling reminder of a bygone mining era. |
| For Mineral collectors who travel in their vacation to the mining area of La Union, the mina Precaución is an easy to reach and in 2010 a worthwhile target to collect attractive pieces with hemimorphite, calcite and more minerals on contrast rich matrix. Equipped with helmet, forehead lamp, chisel ... moreFor Mineral collectors who travel in their vacation to the mining area of La Union, the mina Precaución is an easy to reach and in 2010 a worthwhile target to collect attractive pieces with hemimorphite, calcite and more minerals on contrast rich matrix. Equipped with helmet, forehead lamp, chisel and hammer nice pieces can be rescued easily, taking into account the security rules for mining visits. |
| In the late Middle Ages massive amount of Baryt which phosphoresced when it was gently heated, were discovered in Italy. This stone was named after its place of discovery "Pietra fosforica di Bologna" (phosphorescent Bologna stone) and was of great interest to alchemists. Although the name baryte ha ... moreIn the late Middle Ages massive amount of Baryt which phosphoresced when it was gently heated, were discovered in Italy. This stone was named after its place of discovery "Pietra fosforica di Bologna" (phosphorescent Bologna stone) and was of great interest to alchemists. Although the name baryte has been assigned centuries later, it may be assumed that the Bologna stone is the first description in the literature. A portrait about this famous mineral by Peter Seroka. |