Rare Earth Minerals

Mining exploration

Mineral exploration is the process of searching for evidence of any mineralization hosted in the surrounding rocks. The general principle works by extracting pieces of geological information from several places and extrapolating this over the larger area to develop a geological picture. Exploration is a range of activities to help determine if there are minerals under the ground. If the exploration process identifies minerals can be commercially extracted, then mining in the future may be possible.

Mineral exploration is a complete sequence of activities. It ranges between searching for a new mineral prospect (reconnaissance) and evaluation of the property for economic mining (feasibility study). It also includes augmentation of additional ore reserves and resources in the mine and total mining district.

The methods of mineral exploration include sampling, geological mapping, trenching, drilling by core drills and non-core drills for exploration, sampling, mineralogical and chemical analysis, as well as exploratory mining. The goal is to create a geological report NI 43-1-101 or a bankable feasibility study.

8 Steps of Mineral Exploration:

  • LOCATE POTENTIAL DEPOSITS
  • CLAIM STAKING AND PERMITTING
  • SURFACE EXPLORATION
  • EARLY-STAGE EXPLORATION
  • CORE DRILLING
  • RESOURCE MODELING
  • DE-RISKING
  • PRODUCTION DECISION
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Frequently Asked Questions

  • What is mineral exploration?

    Mineral exploration is the process of searching for mineral deposits in the surrounding rocks. It involves gathering geological information from various areas and using this data to create a larger geological picture. The goal is to identify areas where minerals may be commercially extracted in the ...

  • What are the stages of mineral exploration?

    Mineral exploration is a complete sequence of activities that starts with reconnaissance (searching for new mineral prospects) and ends with a feasibility study (evaluating if mining is economically viable). It also includes activities to find more ore reserves and resources in the mining district.

  • What methods are used in mineral exploration?

    Common methods include sampling, geological mapping, trenching, core drilling, non-core drilling, mineralogical and chemical analysis, and exploratory mining. These methods help in creating geological reports or bankable feasibility studies.

  • What is core drilling in mineral exploration?

    Core drilling is a method of extracting cylindrical rock samples from beneath the earth’s surface. These samples are analyzed to assess the mineral content and structure of the rock, helping geologists understand the potential for mining.

  • What is de-risking in mineral exploration?

    De-risking refers to the process of reducing uncertainty and risks associated with the project, typically after gathering sufficient data and completing studies like resource modeling. It helps in making more informed production decisions.

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