Wanni glacier - Scherbadung area (Monte Cervandone)
Binn, Goms, Valais, Switzerland
Gebiet Wannigletscher - Scherbadung (Monte Cervandone), Kriegalptal (Chriegalptal), Binntal, Wallis (Valais), Schweiz (Suisse; Svizzera)
Key Information
Do not enter mining areas without proper authorization.
The Wanni glacier - Scherbadung area is in Binn, Goms, Valais, Switzerland, part of the Swiss Alps near the Italian border.
It hosts over 84 minerals, including four type localities: Asbecasite, Cafarsite, Cervandonite-(Ce), and Gasparite-(La).
The geological structure involves the Monte Leone nappe, with orthognisses and REE-mineralized nodules.
Mineral collecting has been documented since at least 1973, with no large-scale mining due to its high altitude.
Binn is known as a "mineral village," with a museum and trails for enthusiasts.
The climate is cold and Alpine, with the Wanni glacier influencing mineral preservation.
Geographic Location
The Wanni glacier - Scherbadung area is located in Binn, Goms, Valais, Switzerland, within the stunning Swiss Alps. This area is part of the Binn Valley, a side valley of Goms, and is near the border with Italy, with Monte Cervandone, a 3,211-meter peak, marking the boundary. It's a remote, high-altitude region, ideal for those seeking mineral treasures amidst breathtaking Alpine scenery.
Minerals Produced
This locality is a treasure trove for mineral enthusiasts, boasting over 84 valid minerals. It is particularly notable as the type locality for four minerals: Asbecasite, Cafarsite, Cervandonite-(Ce), and Gasparite-(La), meaning these minerals were first discovered and described here. Recent discoveries include rare earth element (REE) minerals in quartz-feldspar nodules at the lower levels of the Wanni glacier, adding an unexpected layer of scientific interest for researchers.
Geological Structure
The area lies within the Monte Leone nappe, a significant tectonic unit in the Alps. The rocks are primarily orthognisses, which are metamorphic rocks derived from igneous origins, and feature REE-mineralized quartz-feldspar nodules. This geological setting has facilitated the formation of a diverse mineral suite, offering a fascinating glimpse into Alpine geology.
Mining History
Mineral collecting in the Binn Valley dates back to the 18th century, and the Wanni glacier area has been documented since at least 1973. Given its high altitude and glacial conditions, it seems likely that activities here have been more about individual collecting rather than large-scale mining, focusing on the efforts of enthusiasts and researchers.
Local Culture and Characteristics
Binn is often called the "mineral village," with a culture deeply tied to mineral collecting. The Regionalmuseum Binn Regionalmuseum Binn features an extensive collection, and visitors can explore mineral trails, such as the geology trail from Imfeld to the Lengenbach mine. This connection to minerals has made Binn a hub for tourism and scientific study.
Climate and Ecology
The climate is typical of high Alpine regions, cold with significant snowfall, and the Wanni glacier is a key feature. This environment supports a unique ecosystem adapted to harsh conditions, and the glacier likely plays a role in preserving the minerals found here, adding to the area's natural allure.