France’s drought uncovers ‘Pyrenees diamonds’ as hundreds hunt for hidden treasure
A stretch of river in that usually passes unnoticed has become a tempting hunting ground for anyone hoping to uncover […]
A stretch of river in southwestern France has become a popular spot for treasure hunters in search of "Pyrenees diamonds." The crystals, actually transparent calcite minerals, have been hidden in the riverbed of the Gave de Pau during recent years. However, the river's unusually low water levels due to a prolonged drought have made it easier for people to uncover these hidden gems.
As the geological formations are exposed, more people are showing interest in the search, leading to concerns about potential damage to the riverbed and the search for these rare minerals. The "diamonds" are not diamonds but rather exceptionally transparent calcite crystals that grow inside geodes, cavities in rock lined with crystals.
They can appear as shiny crystals, catching the light in a way that makes them resemble precious gemstones. While the search for these crystals has become more accessible, the geological formations that hold them are at risk of being damaged in the process.
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