Akhmatov mine
Magnitka, Kusinsky District, Chelyabinsk Oblast, Russia
Ахматовская копь
Key Information
Do not enter mining areas without proper authorization.
The Akhmatov mine is in Magnitka, Chelyabinsk Region, Russia, in the Ural Mountains.
It's famous for Perovskite, a mineral first described here, and other minerals like Grossular and Magnetite.
The mine, a skarn deposit, was opened in 1811 by P.E. Akhmatov and is known for its rich mineralization.
The area has a strong industrial heritage, with nearby Magnitogorsk famous for steel production.
The climate is continental, with cold winters and warm summers, and mining may impact the environment.
Location and Geography
The Akhmatov mine is located in Magnitka, a settlement in the Kusinsky District of Chelyabinsk Region, Russia. This region is part of the Ural Mountains, which form a natural boundary between Europe and Asia. The mine is about 3 km south-southwest from Magnitka, near the city of Zlatoust, in the southern part of the Urals. Nearby, Magnitogorsk is a major industrial city known for its iron and steel works, adding to the area's mining significance.
Minerals and Geology
This mine is renowned for its skarn deposit, a type of metamorphic rock formed when magma interacts with limestone, leading to rich mineralization. It's particularly famous for Perovskite, which was first described here, making it a type locality—a must-visit for mineral enthusiasts. Other minerals include Grossular var. Hessonite, Magnetite, and a variety like Allanite-(Ce) and Calcite, offering a diverse collection for collectors.
History and Culture
Opened in 1811 by P.E. Akhmatov, the manager of Kusinskii Zavod, the mine has a long history as one of the Urals' most famous skarn deposits. The surrounding area, especially Magnitogorsk, reflects a strong industrial heritage with museums and historical sites showcasing its steel production history. The region's location on the Europe-Asia border adds a unique cultural dimension.
Climate and Ecology
The climate here is continental, with cold winters averaging -9°C in January and warm summers reaching 26°C in July, with annual precipitation around 529 mm, mostly in July. Mining activities, while economically vital, can impact the environment, potentially affecting water and soil, though specific details for this mine are limited.