Location:- in the immediate
vicinity of Carrazedo. (sheet no 37, 1/25,000)
Local
geology:- the most characteristic lithology is a coarse
hornblendite within the sheared ultramafic rocks. Mapping revealed
a complex fold resulting from interference of 02 and 03 Precambrian
folds. The chromite setting is controlled by N40W/60N 05 shears as
confirmed both by field evidence and examination of mining maps.
Brief history of activity:- the claim has existed since 1945.
Significant underground mining took place. The main mining works
were near the village graveyard. The only production figures are :-
1946 (2,000 tonnes of exploited ore yielded 1,100 tonnes at 20%
Cr203); 1948:- 450 tonnes of stored ore; and 1952:- 35,384 tonnes
grading 20% Cr203.
Type of
mineralisation:- disseminated chromite and chromitites with 10 m
maximum length and 1 m thick.
The
cache:
The
coordinates of this cache will take you to an old chromite mine in
Carrazedo near Bragança. The cache is hidden in the old mine
offices, now in ruins. Access is made via a small gate next to the
road. Be aware that although visitors to the mine are common, it is
nevertheless located in private land. Do not abuse your stay by
destroying private property.
The mine pit
is located immediately north of the mine offices. Here you can see
the location of the ore body and how it was extracted. few metres
further north, in the centre of the field, is a clump of bushes.
Here are located the remains of the shaft that serviced the mine
and was used to extract ore. Do not go near it - you cannot see
anything. Enjoy it!
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