Fond des Vaulx quarry
Wellin, Wellin, Luxembourg, Wallonia, Belgium
Key Information
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The Fond des Vaulx quarry is in Wellin, Luxembourg, Wallonia, Belgium, part of the Calestienne limestone strip.
It produces limestone and minerals like Fluorite, Calcite, and Quartz, with Fluorite being particularly notable for collectors.
The geological structure is Devonian limestone, significant for studying ancient rock boundaries.
Mining started in 1946, employs 25 people, and produces 1,250,000 tons annually, with ongoing operations.
The area has local legends tied to the nearby Fond des Vaulx valley, a nature reserve, and a temperate climate supports diverse flora and fauna.
Geographic Location
The Fond des Vaulx quarry is located in Wellin, in the province of Luxembourg, Wallonia, Belgium, nestled in the southern Ardenne region known for its forests and hills. It lies within the Calestienne limestone strip, a narrow band of limestone stretching across the region. Nearby, the Fond des Vaulx valley, a 15-hectare nature reserve, adds to the area's geological and cultural appeal, offering a contrast with its wild landscapes.
Minerals Produced
This quarry is a treasure trove for mineral enthusiasts, primarily extracting high-quality limestone for industrial use. However, it also yields a variety of collectible minerals, with Fluorite standing out for its vibrant colors and frequent mentions in collector circles. Other minerals include Aragonite, Baryte, Calcite, Celestine, Chalcopyrite, Dolomite, Galena, Malachite, Marcasite, Pyrite, Quartz, and Sphalerite, making it a hotspot for those seeking unique specimens.
Geological Structure
The quarry taps into limestone from the Devonian period, specifically the Givetian stage, which is significant for geological studies, particularly at the boundary between the Eifelian and Givetian stages. The Calestienne strip is known for its karstic features, including caves and sinkholes, adding to its scientific interest and offering a glimpse into ancient earth processes.
Mining History
Founded in 1946, the Fond des Vaulx quarry has been operational for nearly eight decades, currently employing 25 people and producing around 1,250,000 tons of aggregates and limestone sands annually. It serves various industries, from construction to agriculture, and holds certifications for quality and environmental standards, reflecting its ongoing importance to the local economy.
Local Culture and Characteristics
The quarry is deeply woven into the fabric of local culture, with the nearby Fond des Vaulx valley steeped in legends and mysteries, enhancing its allure. This valley, a nature reserve, attracts tourists and nature lovers, while Wellin, a small town, takes pride in its geological heritage and the quarry's role in the community.
Climate and Ecology
The region enjoys a temperate climate, ideal for supporting diverse flora and fauna, especially species adapted to limestone soils. While the quarry's operations may impact local ecology, efforts are likely in place to minimize disruption, ensuring the balance between industrial activity and environmental preservation.