Lesson 33 Looking for Indicator Minerals

Summary

In this episode of Hard Rock University, Keith Bowen explores gold prospecting techniques by analyzing various mineral samples from his mining site. He emphasizes the significance of identifying indicator minerals and the importance of careful sample separation for effective analysis. Keith demonstrates methods to clean and assess rocks, revealing unexpected gold content in different mineral types. He highlights the necessity of regular testing as mining progresses, alongside caution due to changing weather conditions during the monsoon season. This informative session provides valuable insights into enhancing prospecting efficiency and adapting to environmental challenges.

Takeaways

• 🔍 Takeaway 1: Keith Bowen emphasizes the importance of identifying indicator minerals when prospecting for gold.
• 🪨 Takeaway 2: Sorting and examining rock samples carefully is crucial to avoid mixing different minerals.
• 💧 Takeaway 3: Cleaning rocks with a panning tub can reveal their true mineral composition and aid in identification.
• ⚒️ Takeaway 4: Different minerals mentioned include limonite, iron pyrite, silver cubes, and oxidized silvery minerals.
• 🧪 Takeaway 5: Crushing and panning rock samples helps separate valuable minerals from waste material.
• 📊 Takeaway 6: The results from panning can vary, with some samples showing more gold than others.
• ⚠️ Takeaway 7: Regular testing and assessment of rock types are necessary due to changing geological conditions.
• 📈 Takeaway 8: Detailed assays can help identify specific minerals that consistently indicate the presence of gold.
• 🌩️ Takeaway 9: Weather conditions, such as thunderstorms, can impact prospecting activities and should be monitored.
• 💡 Takeaway 10: Keith encourages prospectors to continually refine their techniques for effective gold mining.

Q & A

What is the primary focus of Keith Bowen's video?

The video focuses on gold prospecting techniques, specifically identifying indicator minerals that may signify the presence of gold.

What are indicator minerals, and why are they important?

Indicator minerals are specific minerals that suggest the potential presence of gold. They are crucial for prospectors to locate areas that may contain gold deposits.

What method does Keith use to clean the rocks for better examination?

Keith uses a panning tub to brush off dirt from the rocks, allowing for clearer visibility of the minerals present.

What types of minerals does Keith mention in his findings?

Keith mentions Limonite, iron pyrite, a shiny silver sulfide suspected to be an iron-lead sulfide, and a black rock that appears to have gold.

What was the significance of the black rock discovered by Keith?

The black rock showed the most promising results, containing larger particles of gold, making it more valuable than other samples.

How does Keith suggest miners should handle different rock types?

Keith advises miners to regularly sample, crush, and assay different rock types to optimize their prospecting efforts and adapt to changing conditions.

What unexpected results did Keith find in his mineral samples?

Keith found minimal gold in the altered wall rock, but unexpected mineralization in the 'silver cubes' and a modest amount in the pyrite samples.

What does Keith mean by the term 'silver cubes'?

The term 'silver cubes' refers to a type of mineral that exhibits cubic cleavage, which Keith notes has a significant presence of mineralization.

Why does Keith emphasize the need for ongoing testing in mining?

Keith stresses ongoing testing because conditions in mining can change, and regular sampling helps miners adapt and find more effective methods.

What safety concern does Keith mention at the end of the video?

Keith mentions the possibility of severe weather, including thunderstorms, and advises viewers to stay safe while prospecting during the monsoon season.