In Micon’s Opinion…
The ‘Spotted Dog’ – Still an Issue in Mineral Resource Classification
Despite progress being made by professional organisations towards the worldwide standardization of Mineral Resource Standards and Definitions, Micon continues to encounter poorly classified mineral resource estimates. Such classifications often resemble a ‘Spotted...
Can I Use Historic Assay Data in My Resource Estimate?
Can use be made of old or historic assay data in a current mineral resource estimate? The amount of data involved may be substantial and duplicating it could cost hundreds of thousands or even millions of dollars. Clients usually wants to use as much of it as possible. What can be done to complete best practices data verification and justify its use?
When is a Reserve a Reserve?
When is something “economically mineable” for the purpose of reporting a mineral reserve? Beyond requiring the use of certain reporting codes, NI 43-101 does not specify a methodology for the estimation of mineral resources or reserves.
Mineral Resource Reporting – Differences between CIM, JORC, and Others
The modern mining history of every country is different but, as a result of globalization, mining and exploration companies operate in a global capital and commodity market. Public companies from northern Russia to southern in Chile have the obligation to regularly...
The Role of Environmental Baseline Studies in Mining Projects
Continuing the theme of ‘Best Practice’, Micon’s senior geologist and environmental engineer David Makepeace, B.Sc., MMSA, describes the key features of an Environmental Baseline Study.
Continuity in Mineral Resource Estimation
In the second of a series of articles discussing best practice, we focus on the importance of continuity within a mineral resource. The first article covered the classification of resources. Continuity lies at the heart of that discussion and, from Micon’s point of view, is one of the most important but one of the most frequently overlooked issues when conducting mineral resource estimates.
Geostatistics: Black Box Magic or Skilled Procedure?
Geostatistics is more than just a black-box or button-pushing exercise. It is a process involving a suitable collection of data and geological information, a detailed analysis of this data, an understanding of suitable methods for estimation and their inherent assumptions, and a systematic and comprehensive validation of the output model. Tools such as software packages are not magic wands that mysteriously produce models that fit the characteristics of the natural phenomenon. A sensible geostatistical estimate takes time, understanding, experience and skill to produce.
Due Diligence Reports – an IE’s Perspective
The mining consultant, or Independent Engineer (‘IE’) can provide the expertise needed to assess the full range of technical risks and opportunities associated with mining projects. on behalf of the potential investor.
NI 43-101 Technical Reports: What They Are, and What They’re Not
The purpose of an NI 43-101 Technical Report, as stated in the Form 43-101F1 Instructions, is “to provide a summary of material scientific and technical information concerning mineral exploration, development, and production activities on a mineral property that is...
Cut-off Grades for Mineral Resource Reporting
Under the CIM Standards on Mineral Resources and Reserves – Definitions and Guidelines, a mineral resource must be in “such form, grade or quality and quantity that there are reasonable prospects for eventual economic extraction”. The implications of this for the selection of a cut-off grade are discussed in this article by Micon’s V.P. Geology, Terry Hennessey.
Quality Control and Quality Assurance Programmes: A Priority, Not an Afterthought
The integrity of a resource database is fundamental to a company’s success in securing debt or equity finance for a new mining project. The validity and quality of data can only be guaranteed when appropriate sampling and assaying protocols have been implemented. No...
Classification of Mineral Resource Estimates
In the first of a series of articles on best practice DOs and DON’Ts, Bill Lewis, senior geologist with Micon in Toronto, highlights the need to tread carefully when classifying Mineral Resources. The classification of Mineral Resources is an important factor in the analysis of risk on advanced mining projects, and implementing best practices in this area can improve the probability of a successful mine development.
Facts and Features
Feasibility Study for Fortune Minerals
Micon is pleased to be part …
Mineral Property Valuation: Principles and Procedures 101
Considerable thought and effort has been …
Case Studies
Timmins Gold Corporation
Micon has worked with Timmins Gold …
Dalradian Resources Inc.
The Curraghinalt gold deposit is located …