Black Smoker Chimney Hydrothermal Vent [20119]

This is a fantastic, colorful and very rare specimen of hydrothermal vent material from the Indian Ocean. Hydrothermal vents typically form along mid-ocean ridges, near geological hotspots. They provide the means for the transportation of heat and chemicals from deep within the Earth's interior. The Earth is geologically active and the deep ocean environment is no exception. Even in its depths, our planet is "inhaling and exhaling" through its vast, diverse geological systems.

Black smoker hydrothermal vents were first discovered in 1979, by the Scripps Institution of Oceanography. They have been found to be an oasis for some very exotic life. This life is not driven by energy from the Sun, but rather from smoky chemicals precipitating into the water that bathe the organisms that feed on these precipitates, as an energy source (chemoautotrophy). 

Black smoker chimney vent material is different from the white smokers (see our "White Smokers"). There is controversy about whether the black or white smokers were more suitable for the evolution of life. White smokers are more alkaline and profile a different, more alkaline chemistry.

This specimen is from the Rodriguez Triple Junction (RTJ), Central Indian Ridge, Indian Ocean.

Even without magnification the tiny hydrothermal vent pores and diverse minerals can be easily seen. Very photogenic. Minerals in this specimen: Pyrite xx

Specimen size: 41mm H X 30 mm W X 15 mm D. Weight: 16.1 grams

Ships with Certificate of Authenticity, protective case, tag, tag stand, and information about Black Smoker Vents. 

This specimen makes a fantastic addition to make a real top-notch geological collection! Obtained in a materials trade with a scientific institution.