Hatfield-Treasure Beach-General Geology
On August 22, 2025, Surface Geology Mapping was conducted. The area of focus was Hatfield, Manchester (Jamaica), to Treasure Beach, St. Elizabeth (Jamaica). With images provided as evidence, the geology observed was as follows:
Karst, Carbonate.
Sub-Sparite/Micrite-Sparite Carbonate.
Large Coral & Snail Fossils intercalated with Karst.
These lithologies were generally observed with high angle dip (over 60°) to the SE.
Circular Cavities & Bauxite Deposits Observations
Throughout the mapping area (including for all lithologies), circular vents were observed. The circumference of these cavities had sizes ranging from 14 inches to as high as 60+ inches. At Treasure Beach, these cavities had grouping of average 3-4 per 20ft sq. And they were filled with sea water teeming with marine life. The authors hypothesize that these circular cavities are remnants of once active hydrothermal vents.
Between Pedro Plains (St. Elizabeth) and Hatfield (Manchester), at specific sites (highlighted by GPS coordinates on the Geologic map), 1 circular cavity was observed. All cavities observed throughout this area were associated with Bauxite Deposits. Specifically, based on lenticular cement of Bauxite along the walls of the cavities (cross-sectional view), as well as the location of the Bauxite above the cavity opening, it could be inferred that the cavity functioned as a vent for Bauxite transport & deposit (surface & sub-surface). And with generally consistent dip angle of strata throughout the mapping area, it is reasoned that events such as earthquakes served as the source of explosive pressure change (think sand blows), that facilitated the transport and deposition of the Bauxite.
Bauxite Flow? Karst (Pedro Plains)
Treasure Beach
Located in St. Elizabeth, Jamaica, Treasure Beach is known for its location as a tourism hub, with hotels, on Jamaica’s south coast. What is not popular however, are the fossils, faults and mystery vents present.
These geo-gems, hold clues and questions of Jamaica’s birth, bauxite origination theories, high magnitude earthquake & tsunami risk; and commercial Oil potential, to name a few.
Treasure Beach, Jamaica, truly a geologic treasure.
