I came across this interesting article from National Geographic a few days ago, and I found it on the internet. I thought it would be interesting to share with y'all. It's not too new (2007) but it's the first time I've heard of it.
Giant Crystal Caves Mystery Solved
During some mining, a crew working in the Chihuahuan Desert found this cave under the Naica mountain (this area is across the desert). Within they found massive gypsum crystals, some going nearly 36 ft (~11 m), and you'll see in the pictures some people standing near them so you can get an idea of how large these things are.
Gypsum is a compound consisting of Calcium Sulfate with some water. Due to the cave being closed off for as long as it was combined with the heat from the Earth, this created the perfect area for these crystals to grow.
There is some debate going on between regional officials whether the cave should be closed. Some are arguing that with it being open, even with protective layers set in, it would damage the cave if tourists were allowed in, so they are favoring closing it down to prevent it from being damaged.
Some pictures.
Like a freaking Fortress of Solitude, eh?
