Exploration

Exploration is how a deposit is understood before any investment is made. Bringing together geological, geophysical and geochemical data, it establishes where the resource lies, what shape it takes and what it may be worth, so that later decisions rest on evidence.

Areas

  1. Geology and Prospecting

    Field study of outcrops, geological mapping and first sampling to find signs of mineralisation. It narrows the ground down to the areas worth closer study.

  2. Geophysics and Geochemistry

    Measuring the physical properties of the ground and analysing the chemistry of soil and rock to see what lies below the surface. Together they define the targets for drilling.

  3. Exploration Drilling

    Drilling boreholes to recover core and samples from depth and test exploration ideas. Drilling data is the main foundation of any resource estimate.

  4. Sampling and Analysis

    Taking samples to a standard method and analysing them in the laboratory to determine grade and composition. Care at this stage sets the reliability of every estimate that follows.

  5. Resource Estimation and Evaluation

    Estimating the tonnage and grade of a resource with geostatistical methods and assessing its economic value. It shows whether a deposit is worth developing.

  6. 3D Deposit Modelling

    Building a three-dimensional model of the deposit from drilling and sampling data. It shows the shape and extent of the resource and is the basis for mine design.

  7. Remote Sensing and GIS

    Analysing satellite and aerial imagery and spatial data to identify alteration zones and geological structures. These tools focus the search before fieldwork begins.

Equipment

  1. Geophysical and Exploration Equipment

    Magnetic, gravity and electrical survey instruments and field exploration tools. The right equipment makes data collection faster and more accurate.

  2. Exploration Drilling Equipment

    Core and rotary drilling rigs, with rods, bits and ancillary tools. The choice of rig depends on depth, rock type and site access.

  3. Surveying and Sampling Equipment

    Survey instruments, satellite positioning receivers and field sampling tools. Accurate spatial data is the basis of every reliable model and map.