Exploration and Ore Deposit
Geology

Our expertise in both field-based geology and mineralogy can be used in consultancy related to exploration and ore deposit geology. Projects typically involve the detailed description of the mineralogy of exploration prospects, using a range of analytical techniques. We have expertise in sediment hosted ore deposits through to hydrothermal and magmatic ores, in particular platinum group element mineralisation. Key areas of capability are:

• Trace mineral analysis
• Ore deposit characterisation and interpretation
• Cr, Ni, Cu and platinum group element mineralisation
• Rare metal mineralisation (Nb, Ta)

We have access to transmitted and reflected light microscopy, digital photo-micrograph facilities, cold cathodo-luminescence, X-ray diffraction, X-ray fluorescence, wavelength dispersive electron microprobe analysis, low vacuum scanning electron microscopy with EDS and image analysis, and automated SEM-EDS mineral analysis using QEMSCAN® technology. Recent projects have included: characterisation of Ta-Nb ores; examination of metamorphic hosted gold mineralisation; characterisation of igneous hosted gold mineralisation; field and laboratory studies leading to the identification of new PGM occurrences.

Recent scientific publications
Pirrie, D., Power, M.R., Andersen, J.C.Ø. & Butcher, A.R. 2000. Platinum-group mineralization in the Tertiary Igneous Province; new data from Mull and Skye, Scottish Inner Hebrides, UK. Geological Magazine, 137, 651-658.

Power, M.R., Pirrie, D., Andersen, J.C.O. & Butcher, A.R. 2000. Stratigraphical distribution of platinum-group minerals in the Eastern Layered Series, Rum, Scotland. Mineralium Deposita, 35, 762-775.

Power, M.R., Pirrie, D., Jedwab, J. & Stanley, C.J. 2004. Platinum-group element mineralisation in an arsenic-rich magmatic sulphide system, Talnotry, southwest Scotland. Mineralogical Magazine, 68, 395-411.

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