Detecting Large Gold Deposits At Depth

[Gold Hound]

I use 'Induced Polarisation and DC resistivity' to detect large ore bodies before drilling.

This goes about 300m deep in the middle of a 1km electrode array, after a sample is taken you input the data into processing software and  you end up with a 2d cross section image of mineralisation under the ground. You can then do multiple cross sections and input the data into the software and build a 3d model of the mineralisation.

Then you drill it and prove the grade of the mineralisation and hey presto you have a very accurate structure, size and grade for your newly discovered resource that can now be sold or a company floated on the results.

This technology is well out of reach of the hobby or casual gold prospector. But this is a valuable tool in a professional exploration company’s tool box!

 

[jasong]

You used to be able to get small tracked hydraulic rotary rigs on Alibaba for like $15k that'd do 50-100ft, not sure what they cost now. They also make mini rotary rigs with skid steer mounts, I've been considering one of these for a few years. 

Drilling isn't really a great way to find deposits of mostly nuggety gold though if that's what you are after.