The spectacular Makhtesh Ramon is not noted in the Biblical account, but it borders a valuable route leading from both Petra to Gaza, as well from the Judaean Hill Country down to the Gulf of Aqaba. Though sometimes called a crater, the makhteshim are not impact craters, but are created when the soft sandstone strata erodes from under the harder upper layer, leading to its collapse. Unique mineral deposits have created a variety of sandstone colors, including pink, yellow, and black.