Mineral- and Rock Type Localities in Romania and Their Potential Geoheritage Value

A complete inventory of 16 mineral type localities and 1 rock type locality in Romania, as well as their assessed geoheritage characteristics and values are presented for the first time. Thirty-nine mineral species, one chemical element and one common rock type were discovered, described and named in Romania. Most of these are closely linked to traditional mining areas: the Baia Mare region, the Apuseni Mts. and the Banat region. Three mineral type localities are outstandingly rich: Săcărâmb/Nagyág in the southern Apuseni Mts. (8 new minerals), Baia Sprie/Felsőbánya in the Baia Mare region (6 new minerals), and Băița Bihor/Rézbánya in the Northern Apuseni Mts. (6 new minerals). The scientific, educational and touristic value and significance of the type localities regarded as „geosites” and „geodiversity sites” are discussed. Based on the quantitative assessment of the scientific, educational and touristic values, the type localities were hierarchically classified, Baia Sprie, Săcărâmb and Măgura Uroiului being the highest ranked. From the geoconservation perspective, site protection and valuation strategies at local and/or regional scales are envisaged.