The Crystal Cave, Mexico

“Crystal cave Mexico are very special because they have, arguably, the largest crystals on the planet,” said Dr. Dougal Jerram, a geological consultant and researcher, during his visit to the magnificent structure.

Located in the south of Chihuahua, a remote part of northern Mexico is a giant crystal cave known as Cueva de los Cristales. Connected to the Naica mine, which is 300 metres below the surface, the largest crystal found inside the cave is 12 meters (39 feet) in length, 4 meters (13 feet) in diameter and 55 tons in weight.

History

Crystal Cave was discovered in 2000 when a group of miners were excavating a tunnel for the Industrias Peñoles mining company in Naica, Mexico. Prior to the mining process, the entire cave was underwater. Thanks to the mining company who pumped the water away and lowered the groundwater level, the cave was finally revealed.

About the Crystals

Everything that glitters is not gold, but crystal! Sharp, like needles, these crystals appear like giant pillars of light as one enters the cave. You’ll also find cluster of smaller crystals on the floor and walls. Made from Gypsum, these are selenite crystals. These crystals take ages to grow into an enormous size. However, the present size of selenite crystals was formed owing to the hydrothermal fluids emanating from the underground magma chambers, several years ago.

Know More

With soaring temperatures that reach up to 58 °C and humidity that ranges from 90 to 100 per cent, getting inside the cave is definitely not easy. You are allowed to visit under direct supervision only. Without proper clothing or guidance, it is difficult to survive inside. However, if the mining process ever stops at the Naica mine, the cave will be filled with extremely hot groundwater as Earth is quite warm at 300 meters depth, making it impossible to visit the cave again.

Did You Know?

Crystal Cave is also known as the Superman Cave as it looks like the Arctic home of the comic book series of Superman.