Lava Architecture at the Lamproite Outcrop of Cabezo Negro

 A detailed view of the lamproite outcrop, displaying excellent examples of columnar jointing and a system of curved, concentric fractures. These geometric structures represent cooling surfaces that advanced progressively from the center toward the periphery of the volcanic plug*.

In this area, the columns exhibit a characteristic outward dip of approximately 70° relative to the deposit. Furthermore, the mineralogical composition of these lamproites is notable for its abundance of small, lustrous phlogopite flakes, amygdales filled with greenish chalcedony, and degassing cavities, alongside greenish and yellowish hues resulting from the alteration of ferromagnesian minerals. This site stands as a unique record of ultrapotassic magma crystallization in the Region of Murcia. (Source: Ayuntamiento de Calasparra**)

*A volcanic plug is a needle- or tower-shaped geological structure that forms when highly viscous lava solidifies inside a volcano's vent or conduit.

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