Forget coal — alabaster is where the mining action is on Utah’s former Grand Staircase monument
(Photo courtesy of Rusty Galetka) Alabaster mined in southern Utah is famous for its translucent qualities and orange hues. Sculptors carve the soft stone into decorative pieces like these by Utah artist Rusty Galetka.
Brian Maffly has worked for The Tribune off and on since 1994. Maffly roams Utah, covering public land and environment.