Moscona Mine
El Pontón de Solís, Corvera de Asturias, Asturias, Spain
Mina Moscona, Solís, Zona Minera de Villabona, Corvera de Asturias, Asturias, España
Key Information
Do not enter mining areas without proper authorization.
The Moscona Mine is located in El Pontón de Solís, Corvera de Asturias, Asturias, Spain, known for its fluorite deposits.
It produces notable minerals like fluorite, baryte, and calcite, with fluorite being particularly prized for its cubic crystals.
The mine’s geology involves Permo-Triassic sedimentary rock, likely formed through hydrothermal activity.
Mining began in 1968, is still active, and has been a significant producer with a capacity of up to 5 million tons.
The area has a temperate maritime climate, supporting lush landscapes, which may influence mineral preservation.
Local culture includes traditional Asturian practices like cider making, with the mine contributing to the region’s heritage.
Geographic Location
The Moscona Mine sits at 43° 29' 34'' North, 5° 51' 28'' West, in El Pontón de Solís, a village in Corvera de Asturias, within the Asturias region of northern Spain. Asturias is famous for its rugged landscapes and mining history, and the mine is part of the Villabona mining area, known for fluorite. Nearby towns include Santa Cruz (4.5 km away, population 478 in 2018) and Corvera de Asturias (5.3 km away, population 15,955 in 2015), offering a mix of rural and urban experiences.
Minerals Produced
The mine is renowned for its fluorite, appearing as large clusters of cubic, honey-yellow, transparent crystals, often associated with calcite and baryte. Other minerals include azurite, malachite, and quartz, with baryte forming tabular crystals up to 5 cm, usually blue or yellow. These specimens are highly sought after by collectors for their aesthetic appeal.
Geological Structure and Mining History
Research suggests the mine’s geology involves Permo-Triassic sedimentary rock, with fluorite deposits formed through hydrothermal activity, indicated by homogeneization temperatures of 75-80 °C. Mining started in 1968 under the Minas de Miranda Company, rented to Minersa in 1977, and remains active as of 2023 checks. It covers about 5 square km, using chambers and pillars on two levels, with production reaching up to 5 million tons and a CaF2 yield over 30%.
Local Culture and Climate
The area around El Pontón de Solís, with a population of around 432 in 2021, is steeped in Asturian traditions like cider making and fishing, reflecting the region’s maritime heritage. The temperate maritime climate, with mild temperatures and significant rainfall, supports lush green landscapes, potentially aiding mineral preservation. This climate contrasts with drier Spanish regions, adding to the area’s unique character.