World Cup gold mine? Rare rock dust found in Queensland's Lockyer Valley

According to an ABC report, two geologists believe they have struck brown gold in Queensland's Lockyer Valley, unearthing a naturally occurring rock dust capable of growing pristine grass in the middle of the Arabian desert.

Geologists and farmers Martin I'Ons (L) and Guy Lewington examining their find Source: ABC News: Melanie Vujkovic

Guy Lewington and Martin I'Ons were looking for the silica when they bought the mine at Mount Sylvia 11 years ago.

Mr Lewington said it was only by chance they instead discovered palagonite.

He said the fine material existed in other parts of the world, but that it was very rare.

It is formed through the interaction of water with volcanic glass.