Laman celestine deposit

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Qala e Naw District, Badghis, Afghanistan

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Key Information

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  • The Laman celestine deposit is in Qala e Naw District, Badghis Province, northwestern Afghanistan, near the Turkmenistan border.

  • It produces mainly celestine, with gemmy blue crystals, and some calcite, appealing to mineral enthusiasts.

  • The deposit is hosted in limestone, a sedimentary rock, likely formed through marine sedimentation.

  • Mining history suggests small-scale extraction, with specimens noted in recent years, but details are limited.

  • The area has a diverse population, including Hazaras and Tajiks, and is known for pistachio forests, adding cultural richness.

  • It has a Mediterranean climate with hot summers and cold winters, potentially influencing mineral formation.

Geographic Location

The Laman celestine deposit lies in Qala e Naw District, the capital of Badghis Province, in northwestern Afghanistan. This region is west of the country, bordering Turkmenistan, and is characterized by rolling hills and limestone formations. Qala e Naw, a small administrative hub with an airport, is less known than nearby Herat to the southwest, famous for its historical sites.

Minerals Produced

This locality is renowned for celestine (SrSO₄), prized for its vibrant blue, gemmy crystals, often several centimeters long. Calcite (CaCO₃) is also present, adding aesthetic contrast with its dogtooth crystals. These minerals make it a treasure trove for collectors seeking rare, visually striking specimens.

Geological and Mining Context

The deposit is hosted in limestone, a sedimentary rock formed from ancient marine deposits. Celestine likely formed through diagenetic processes, concentrating strontium and sulfate in the limestone. While specific mining history is sparse, recent records suggest small-scale extraction, with specimens documented as recently as 2022, indicating ongoing interest.

Cultural and Environmental Notes

Qala e Naw District boasts a diverse population, including Sunni Hazaras, Tajiks, Pashtuns, Balochs, Uzbeks, and Turkmens, reflecting Afghanistan’s cultural tapestry. The area is notably known for its pistachio forests, a local specialty. Climatically, it has a Mediterranean climate with hot summers and cold winters, potentially influencing the region’s mineral-rich geology through arid conditions.

Citations