February 11, 2014
From Israel Post:
The dynamic earth has formed almost unique geological landforms in the Negev desert. Initially, a layered sequence of hard limestone and dolomite rocks was deposited over softer sandstone sediments. The sequence was folded into asymmetric folds, producing four parallel, northeast – southwest, topographical ridges. An erosion surface removed the hard limestone and dolomite rocks of the fold’s crest, exposing the underlying friable sandstone, which was eroded, forming a deep transverse valley. The creeks drain into the Dead Sea – Arava valley, through a single outlet, incised into the southeastern flank. The closed valleys are surrounded by steep cliffs, 200–400 m high. This type of breached valley or erosion crater is known as a “makhtesh”. A makhtesh is a “geological window” through which the ancient strata are revealed.
A makhtesh contains a variety of different colored rocks, and diverse “fauna and flora”. The area of each makhtesh has been declared a nature reserve, providing an ideal location for recreation and leisure with trails for hiking, cycling and jeep tours.
Makhtesh Ramon
Makhtesh Ramon, located near Mitzpe Ramon, is the largest crater, up to 40 km long, 9 km wide, and 500 m deep. It has been designated as a national geological park. The sandstone, multi- coloured clays and gypsum rocks were mined in the early days of the State of Israel, forming the basis of the ceramics industry in Israel. To add to the diversity of the geology, dark basalt volcanic rocks are exposed and eroded into hexagonal columns. The sedimentary rocks have been intruded by rare magmatic rocks with an unusual suite of metallic minerals.
Makhtesh Gadol
Makhtesh Gadol (the large crater), located near Yerucham, isthesecondlargestcrater,5kmby 10 km, and is drained by “Nahal Hatira”. The erosionhasexposedapetrifiedforest. Thevaried and colourful sand provides an opportunity to develop artistic skills by filling bottles with different sands. The white quartz sands are quarried for the glass industry.
Makhtesh Katan
Makhtesh Katan (the small crater), located near Dimona, is the most perfect of the Negev craters and is 5 km by 7 km. It is surrounded by steep limestone cliffs, and drained by Nahal Hatzera. To the east are rehabilitated rich phosphate rock quarries.
Josef Charrach, Geologist
President of the Gems, Minerals & Jewelry, Study Unit of the ATA
Member of the Royal Philatelic Society of London
Description of the Stamps
The Makhtesh Katan stamp design was inspired by photos from the collection of Josef Charrach.
“Unique geological landforms named a Makhtesh, are the topic of three attractive decorated stamp sheets. These Makhtesh – Ancient Erosion Craters are particular to Israel and create stunning backgrounds for hiking, cycling and recreation.” — Mrs. Yael Koskas, International Marketing Manager, Israel Post
