Indicator minerals, also known as pathfinder minerals, are used by those engaged in mineral exploration to effectively narrow down the search area for many different types of ore deposits.
In indicator mineral-based exploration programs, sediments and rocks are either geochemically tested or visually inspected for clues about the distance and direction of their source. When it comes to visual inspection, rocks are examined for certain grain morphologies and surface textures in order to obtain information about transport distance and bedrock source.
When indicator or pathfinder minerals are found, explorers will use a number of techniques to gain information on where a gold deposit might be. Here’s a look at four of those methods.
By taking multiple samples of sediment and classifying the gold grains according to the above scheme, the search area for a source of gold can be narrowed down. This process has been used systematically for the past for four decades in the search for sources of gold.
It’s worth noting that while inclusions can give valuable insight on deposit types and their possible location, they are often easily eroded from gold through transport. Thus, inclusions are often only useful when found in close proximity to a bedrock source.
As with gold grain morphology, composition studies involve gathering and examining mineral samples to obtain information on transport directions and distances.
This is an updated version of an article originally published by the Investing News Network in 2011.
Securities Disclosure: I, Melissa Pistilli, hold no direct investment interest in any company mentioned in this article.
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