Orogenic environments

A core area of expertise covers the ‘orogenic’ group of gold systems. These include styles frequently referred to as mesothermal, or lode gold deposits. System and trap site development and evolution in these systems is closely related to shortening associated with the prograde evolution of an orogen. The frequently complex expression of the vein systems that host gold in these systems are the product of progressive deformation, rather than multiple events, as is frequently interpreted. If not recognized, then uncertainty increases and this may negatively impact on the development of exploration models if not recognized.

We have completed projects on many deposits of this style from small through to super giants - including the giant Muruntau system - in Archaean to Phanerozoic hosts.

Extensional environments

Trap site development and evolution of epithermal systems represent a second area of core expertise. Analysis of the structural environment and relationships between extensional elements and mineralized positions provide well constrained guides for ongoing trap site exploration and regional searches.

We have been involved in many epithermal projects including the large Pajingo deposit in Queensland, Australia and the Martha deposit in New Zealand.

Other environments

Beyond these we have experience in a range of other deposit environments and styles. In all cases we apply the same process driven approaches to produce the best constrained outcomes.

We consider that improving the geological knowledge and experience of geologists is fundamental to successful exploration outcomes. To this end we offer our substantial experience in teaching and mentoring to clients as part of their professional development programs.

In-house and public short courses, including seminars, in structural geology related to trap site development and evolution have been held in many locations. These are designed as practical sessions to provide geologists with the basic tools for effective interpretation in mineralized, deformed extensional and/or contractional environments. Ideally these include a field component, but the content of the courses involves extensive use of field photographs and data.

Our courses are frequently offered as part of longer projects and clients are able to request a course as part of these exercises.

We are, of course, able to tailor our courses to suit particular client requirements. We can also provide ongoing mentoring of staff as part of a continuous improvement program. Please contact us for more information.

We have broad international experience in technical and peer review activities. These are focused on improving the constraints and confidence in the outcomes of projects and can take placer at any stage during, or after the completion of projects. Our reviews normally occur in the offices of clients, but may occur on site and include a field component as appropriate, or requested.

We can advise on the structure of review teams as part of any project planning activity.