These Little Hills hide Treasure EarthCache
Hidden : 2/12/2013
Difficulty:
2 out of 5
Terrain:
1 out of 5

Size: Size: other (other)

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Geocache Description:


This is not a typical Geocache.  There is no container to find and no physical log to sign at the coordinates.  Instead you will be able to enjoy and learn about an important geological feature of New Mexico.  This rest stop affords travelers an excellent view of the Cerrillos Hills to the east.  There is an information sign that tells you a little bit about the history of the mining of turquoise and gold in this area.

Most major deposits of turquoise are found in arid regions or deserts.  The dry environment allows for just the right interaction of water and minerals that produce the beautiful blue and green stones.

Igneous rocks such as those that produce turquoise form when magma from deep within the earth thrusts up towards the surface and cools.  The magma fills in the fractures of existing rock formations that cracked under the pressure from below.  Geologists classify turquoise as a secondary mineral because it comes from a combination of other minerals that predate its formation.  Acidic water from above or below percolates through the rock, leaching away phosphorous, copper, and aluminum.  With the right mix of acids and minerals, a chemical reaction produces the turquoise, and it is deposited in veins along the path of the magma's flow long after the initial intrusion.

The Cerrillos Hills did more than provide turquoise, however. Like other geological features, they provided an excellent landmark for travelers.

In order to log this EarthCache, email me the answers to the following questions (please don't post the answers other than the optional picture in your online log):

1.  Was turquoise present immediately after the intruding magma cooled?  Tell me why or why not in your own words.

2.  The tallest of the Cerrillos Hills reaches an elevation of 6200 feet--look to the east, and you will see them. Despite their elevation--why do you think the Spanish called them "the little hills"? What made them a good landmark?

3.  According to the sign, who first mined turquoise here and what distinction can the Cerrillos Hills boast?

4.  The last is purely optional:  post a picture of yourself and/or your gps with the "Gold" side of the sign in the background, or any part of the dry New Mexico landscape EXCEPT a view that provides a spoiler for question #2 above.

As per EarthCache rules, I must delete your log if I don't receive your email within 5 days of your visit.  Thanks for visiting my EarthCache!

***** Congratulations to SPat ABQ on FTF!!! *****

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