Fenghuang Co.
Xiangxi, Hunan, China
凤凰县, 湘西土家族苗族自治州, 湖南省, 中国
Key Information
Do not enter mining areas without proper authorization.
Fenghuang County, in western Hunan, China, is known for its mercury and zinc deposits, with mining dating back nearly 2000 years.
The area features a mix of sedimentary rocks and granite intrusions, likely forming hydrothermal mineral deposits.
Local culture is rich with Miao and Tujia traditions, including ginger candy and silver jewelry, and historical sites like the Southern China Great Wall.
The climate is subtropical, with an average annual temperature of 15.9°C, supporting diverse ecology and scenic beauty.
Geographic Location
Fenghuang County lies in the western part of Hunan Province, near the border with Guizhou, and is part of the Tujia and Miao Autonomous Prefecture. This mountainous region, with Tuojiang Town as its county seat, is home to the famous Fenghuang Ancient Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Tentative List site known for its historical and cultural significance.
Minerals and Geological Structure
Research suggests that Fenghuang County is a hotspot for mineral enthusiasts, particularly for cinnabar (mercury sulfide) and sphalerite (zinc), with possible lead minerals like galena. The geological setting includes sedimentary rocks from the Paleozoic and Mesozoic eras, with granite intrusions, likely leading to hydrothermal deposits that formed these minerals over time.
Mining History and Local Culture
It seems likely that mining in Fenghuang, especially at the Chatian Mine, began around 200 BC, reflecting a long history of resource extraction. The area’s culture is vibrant, with Miao and Tujia ethnic groups contributing to local specialties like ginger candy, batik fabrics, and silver jewelry, and historical landmarks like the Southern China Great Wall, built during the Ming dynasty.
Climate and Ecology
The evidence leans toward Fenghuang having a subtropical monsoon climate, with an average annual temperature of 15.9°C, supporting forests, rivers, and diverse flora and fauna. This climate enhances the region’s scenic beauty, making it appealing for both mineral exploration and tourism.