Introduction
In the world of geology, minerals, and crystals, the Deccan Traps of India hold a legendary reputation. Formed over 65 million years ago, this vast volcanic region is one of the largest on Earth, making it geologically significant and fascinating. Spanning primarily across Maharashtra and Madhya Pradesh, the Deccan Traps have been a treasure trove of natural mineral specimens for decades.
Magnificent Discoveries
Over the years, the Deccan Traps have unveiled numerous awe-inspiring mineral specimens that now adorn private collections and museum displays worldwide. Among these are the electric blue cavansites from Pune and the gemmy green apophyllites from Jalgaon—both cherished by collectors. Rare red botryoidal fluorites from Nashik have captivated enthusiasts with their unique appeal, while multi-dimensional golden calcites from Jalgaon remain a must-have for serious mineral collectors.
The region has also surprised the mineral world with accidental discoveries like the disco ball green apophyllites from Ahmednagar, which took the community by storm.
The Alarming Decline
At Superb Minerals, a leading source of collectible natural Indian minerals, we are observing a rapid decline in new discoveries from the Deccan Traps. This might be hard for Western collectors to believe, but the production of mineral specimens is now just 5% of what it was a decade ago.
Collectors attending major exhibitions may already notice the dwindling quality and quantity of specimens. Although exhibitions can be overwhelming, this decline has become increasingly apparent to seasoned enthusiasts.
Reasons for Decline
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Low Production:
The primary reason for the decline is the reduced production in regular mineral-producing quarries, such as the Savda Quarries of Jalgaon. These quarries primarily focus on basalt extraction for infrastructure development rather than minerals. Over decades of operation, many quarries have exhausted their mineral deposits. -
Modernization of Machinery:
Advanced machinery and techniques in basalt mining have inadvertently destroyed many geodes and mineral pockets before discovery. Innovations in tunneling, road construction, and canal excavation have also reduced the chances of accidental discoveries in the Deccan Traps. -
Rapid Urbanization:
With India now the most populous country in the world, urban expansion has taken a toll on mineral-rich areas. Cities like Mumbai, Pune, and Nashik, once prolific sources of collectible minerals, have experienced massive development. For instance, Mumbai’s suburban minerals are now considered extinct due to the impossibility of mining there.
Pune, known globally as the exclusive source of collectible cavansite specimens, has also suffered. The Wagholi mine, once a renowned producer of cavansite, is now inoperational due to urbanization.
Impact on the Mineral Trade
The decline in new finds from the Deccan Traps has significantly impacted the mineral trade and the hobby of collecting. As availability diminishes, prices at the source are rising, affecting the entire supply chain. This creates barriers for young and passionate collectors who may no longer afford or access high-quality specimens. Over time, mineral collecting could transform into a luxury hobby, accessible only to a select few.
Conclusion
The Deccan Traps of India are a geological wonder, but their treasures are fading fast. For collectors and enthusiasts, this is the right time to invest in the region’s minerals before they become even rarer and more expensive.