Erebus Volcano in Antarctica Emits Microscopic Gold Crystals Daily

Scientists studying Mount Erebus on Ross Island, Antarctica, have confirmed that the volcano releases roughly 80 grams of microscopic elemental gold into the atmosphere each day. The gold particles, about 60 µm in size, form perfect geometric crystals and can be carried by wind up to 1,000 km from the summit.

The phenomenon is unique among active volcanoes; while gold traces have been found in gases from Kilauea and Etna, Erebus is the only volcano observed to emit gold as well‑formed crystals. Researchers propose two possible formation mechanisms: rapid cooling of gold‑laden volcanic gases in the atmosphere, or crystallisation within a thin crust on the surface of the volcano’s persistent lava lake before being lofted by rising gas streams. The discovery, first reported over 30 years ago, remains under investigation.

The findings highlight the unusual geochemical processes at the world’s southernmost active volcano and expand understanding of volcanic mineral emissions.