Geyserite El Tatio Atacama Chile [XRF Included]

Geyserite from El Tatio Geyser Field, Atacama Desert, Chile

Geyserite is an incredible byproduct from the life of geysers. Not all geysers make geyserite but those that do make it from rhyolitic rock rich in silica.

What is Geyserite?

Geyserite is a grayish or white opaline siliceous deposit formed around natural hot springs and geysers. This unique specimen comes from the renowned El Tatio Geyser Field, located just a few miles from the border of Chile and Bolivia.

The Surreal Environment of El Tatio

This incredible geyser field is situated in a high-altitude, surrealistic environment, surrounded by stratovolcanoes that are part of an impressive geothermal system. El Tatio is an ideal location to investigate unique microbial diversity and metabolisms, particularly those associated with arsenic-loving bacterial biodiversities found within biofilms and microbial mats. The previously known "Tree of Life" has expanded into another paradigm of weirdness with this metabolic "arsenic corner."

Arsenic Concentrations and Microbial Diversity

Arsenic concentrations at the El Tatio Geyser Field are significantly higher than at any other natural geothermal site in the world, making it an ideal location for studying unique microbial diversity.

The Significance of El Tatio

The name "El Tatio" means either "oven" or "grandfather." It is the third-largest geyser field in the world and the largest in the Southern Hemisphere. El Tatio lies at the western foot of a series of stratovolcanoes along the border between Chile and Bolivia. This series of volcanoes is part of the Central Volcanic Zone, one of several volcanic belts in the Andes.

Specimen Details

• Size of specimen: 48mm H x 33mm W x 27mm D. This is a superb specimen from this locality, and the XRF analysis is included!
• Ships with a tag, display case, and Certificate of Authenticity.
• Legally obtained in a scientific trade with a scientific institution.

A Valuable Addition to Your Geological Collection

This geyserite specimen from El Tatio is an excellent addition to any geological collection, especially those that include extremophile and rare geological location specimens. Its unique origin and geological significance make it a visually and scientifically engaging piece.

This scientific material is Guaranteed Authentic. It was professionally and legally collected and arrives with a Certificate of Authenticity.