Spiky, crystalline silica deposits

 

This image showcases unique silica sinter, a feature formed by the precipitation of dissolved silica from hot spring water. The white, spiky, or feathery texture arises from rapid silica deposition. As the water cools or evaporates, it becomes supersaturated, forcing rapid silica precipitation. This rapid crystallisation tends to happen more at protruding points, encouraging spiky growth. Additionally, when water pools on the surface and then evaporates, surface tension can pull the precipitating silica into peaked formations.