Image: Geode of Pulpí schematic formation

Description: Conceptual sketch of gypsum precipitation in the Giant Geode of Pulpí from at least 164 ± 15 ka to sometime before 60 ka. Our results of stable isotopes in gypsum hydration water suggest a prevailing source of sulfate-enriched water from the paleo-aquifer, with the sea level located below the Geode level (currently at 97 m asl). Meteoric water seepage that recharged the aquifer and the solution from which the gypsum crystals were formed was freshwater, with insignificant contributions of seawater. Dissolution of Triassic gypsum and anhydrite associated to phyllites was the main source of sulfate to the solution. Note that the scale is exaggerated and a precise topography omitted for a better display.
Title: Geode of Pulpí schematic formation
Credit: Gázquez, F.; Monteserín, A.; Obert, C.; Münker, C.; Fernández-Cortés, Á.; Calaforra, J.M. (2022) The Absolute Age and Origin of the Giant Gypsum Geode of Pulpí (Almería, SE Spain). Geosciences, 12, 144. https://doi.org/10.3390/geosciences12040144
Author: Fernando Gázquez, Ana Monteserín, Christina Obert, Carsten Münker, Ángel Fernández-Cortés, José María Calaforra
Usage Terms: Creative Commons Attribution 4.0
License: CC BY 4.0
License Link: https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Attribution Required?: Yes