Maoniuping Mine
Mianning County, Liangshan Yi, Sichuan, China
牦牛坪稀土矿, 冕宁县, 凉山彝族自治州, 四川省, 中国
Key Information
Do not enter mining areas without proper authorization.
The Maoniuping Mine is in Mianning County, Liangshan Yi, Sichuan, China, a mountainous region near Yunnan, known for its Yi culture.
It produces rare earth elements (REEs) like bastnaesite-(Ce), with a history starting as a molybdenum mine.
The geological structure is a carbonatite-syenite complex, formed through magmatic and hydrothermal processes.
Mining likely began in the early 1990s and continues today, with significant reserves of 0.4 million tons at 2% REE oxides.
The area is home to the Yi people, with vibrant festivals like the Torch Festival, and has a subtropical climate with mild winters and warm summers.
Geographic Location
The Maoniuping Mine is located in Mianning County, part of the Liangshan Yi Autonomous Prefecture in southern Sichuan Province, China. This region lies in southwestern China, near the border with Yunnan Province, and is characterized by its rugged, mountainous terrain. It’s a place where the landscape tells stories of isolation and natural beauty, with nearby notable mineral localities like the Muluozhai and Lizhuang REE deposits adding to its geological significance.
Minerals Produced
The mine is primarily famous for its rare earth elements (REEs), making it China’s second largest REE deposit. Initially, it was exploited for molybdenum, and minerals like wulfenite (lead molybdate) are still found here. However, the focus has shifted to REEs, with key minerals including bastnaesite-(Ce), which is crucial for extracting light rare earth elements, appealing to enthusiasts for its unique occurrence.
Geological Structure
The geological foundation is a carbonatite-syenite complex, a type of igneous rock formation rich in carbonate minerals, known for concentrating REEs from the Earth’s mantle. The REE mineralization is linked to hydrothermal fluids associated with this complex, formed through both magmatic and hydrothermal processes, offering a fascinating insight into Earth’s geological history.
Mining History
The discovery of the Maoniuping deposit dates back to the late 20th century, with mining operations likely starting in the early 1990s. It has proven reserves of approximately 0.4 million tons of ore, grading at 2% REE oxides, and remains operational, contributing significantly to China’s REE production, a testament to its enduring economic importance.
Local Culture and Characteristics
The region is home to the Yi people, one of China’s largest ethnic minorities, known for their rich culture, language, and traditions. They celebrate vibrant festivals like the Torch Festival, where torches are lit to ward off evil spirits and pray for bountiful harvests. Their traditional attire, adorned with intricate embroidery, and a blend of ancestor worship, Buddhism, and other beliefs, add a cultural depth to the area.
Climate and Ecology
Liangshan Yi experiences a subtropical climate, with mild winters and warm, humid summers, featuring distinct dry and wet seasons, with most rainfall from June to September. The ecology is diverse, with a variety of plant and animal life adapted to the subtropical environment and the mountainous landscape, including the significant Anning River, creating a rich natural habitat.