Uchucchacua Mine

Uchucchacua Mine is nestled in the high Andean mountains of Peru, about 9 km northeast of Oyón, the capital of Oyón Province in the Lima Region. At 3600 meters elevation, it's a remote area surrounded by rugged peaks and valleys, ideal for mineral exploration. Nearby, the Raura mine in Cajatambo province adds to the region's mining significance, making it a hotspot for enthusiasts.

This mine is famous for producing silver, zinc, and lead, but it's particularly exciting for collectors as it's the type locality for 10 unique minerals, including Agmantinite, Benavidesite, and Uchucchacuaite. These were first discovered here, offering rare specimens. Geologically, it's hosted in Upper Cretaceous carbonate rocks (limestone), with Miocene intrusions creating hydrothermal veins and replacement bodies along faults, leading to a complex mineralogy with sulfides and manganese-rich minerals.

Discovered by Buenaventura, a Peruvian mining company founded in 1953, the mine began operations in 1975. It's an underground operation producing significant amounts of silver, zinc, and lead, contributing to Peru's mining industry. The area's mining history is tied to Buenaventura's expansion, making it a key site.

Oyón, nearby, is known as "la cuna del arpa" (cradle of the harp), the birthplace of folkloric singer Alicia Delgado, reflecting a rich musical tradition. Archaeological sites like Golgue and the Capilla Sixtina de los Andes in Rapaz highlight indigenous and colonial influences. The climate is cool to cold, with temperatures ranging from 2°C to 12°C, typical of high Andean regions, and the ecology features hardy plants and animals adapted to these conditions.

It's surprising that Uchucchacua is the type locality for 10 minerals, a rare distinction that makes it a must-visit for collectors seeking unique specimens like Agmantinite and Uchucchacuaite, enhancing its appeal beyond typical mining sites.