"Hopovo" gemstone occurrence (Fruška gora)

Abstract

This study presents geological, mineralogical, and gemological characteristics of gemstone deposit (silica and carbonate minerals) that occur in Mesozoic Fruška gora ultramafites in the vicinity of Hopovo Monastery. The host rock for gemstone is altered serpentinite outcropping along Lipov Potok creek in the zone approximately 300 m wide and 600 m long. Gemstone ore bodies occur in the form of single veins and as system of parallel and intersected veins. Gemstone varieties are presented with agate, chalcedony, quartz, and carbonate minerals often forming parallel bands (carbonate onyx). Gem minerals from this occurrence are best processed in the cabochon form adequately emphasizing their natural properties - transparency, color, pattern etc.

Keywords

• gemstone
• agate
• chalcedony
• quartz
• carbonate
• serpentinite
• hopovo
• fruška gora