Emilio Mine

The Emilio Mine is nestled in Loroñe, part of the Obdulia parish in Colunga, Asturias, Spain. Asturias, in northern Spain, is renowned for its rugged coastlines, mountains, and lush greenery, often called "Green Spain." The mine is near the coastal town of Colunga, with coordinates at 43° 27' 28'' North, 5° 13' 22'' West, placing it in the central part of Asturias, close to the Cantabrian Sea. Nearby, Caravia, another small town, is known for its beaches and the Sierra del Sueve, adding to the region's appeal for mineral enthusiasts exploring the area.

The Emilio Mine is famous for its fluorite, which ranges from colorless to deep violet and often contains intriguing inclusions like cinnabar, sphalerite, pyrite, and chalcopyrite, as well as organic and hydrocarbon traces. This makes it a treasure trove for collectors seeking unique specimens. Other minerals found here include calcite, baryte, and quartz, with recent discoveries of double-terminated quartz crystals up to 20cm, prized for their transparency and luster.

The mine's mineralized lode stretches 500m in a northwest-southeast direction, with an average width of 1.5m, hosted in sedimentary rocks, likely from the Permo-Triassic or Paleozoic periods, such as sandstones and limestones. Mining began in 1940 for kaolin extraction, but by 1965, it shifted focus to fluorite, with significant developments including a shaft renovation and confirmation of the lode's extent. By 1985, Minersa took over, installing processing plants and extracting about 4 million tons of mineral, with galleries extending over 60km. The operation transitioned fully to fluor spar by 1989, and between 2005-2009, it yielded unique quartz crystal pockets, enhancing its reputation.

Colunga and surrounding areas are steeped in history, with evidence of Paleolithic, Roman, and medieval settlements. The fishing village of Lastres, part of Colunga, won the "Exemplary Town of Asturias Award" in 2010 for its cultural preservation. The Jurassic Museum of Asturias (MUJA) mindat.org in Colunga is a highlight, showcasing the region's paleontological significance, making it a fascinating stop for visitors interested in both minerals and history.

Asturias enjoys a maritime climate, and in Colunga, the average annual temperature is around 12.9°C, with significant rainfall of about 1402mm yearly. This climate supports diverse ecosystems, including coastal flora and fauna, forests, and mountain habitats, contributing to the region's lush landscapes and providing a rich backdrop for mineral exploration.