What causes the different colors in the Cave?
The mineral calcite is white. Calcite is the primary mineral that you see in the Cave because it is essentially limestone that has been dissolved and redeposited. Reddish brown colors come from iron oxide, or rust. Shades of black, purple, blue and gray come from manganese oxide. Iron and manganese are present within the limestone that surrounds the Cave. When these two minerals mix with water and air (oxygen), an oxidation reaction occurs, leaving behind the beautiful hues.
