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Added: April 4, 20252025-04-04T11:41:41-04:00 2025-04-04T11:41:41-04:00In: Geology

What is the difference between inferred, indicated, and measured resources in mining?

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A Resource is a concentration of a minerals that has a reasonable prospect of economic extraction. Its location, grade, quantity and continuity are reasonably known from specific geological knowledge and evidence (Investors, 2013).  Within the Resource category there are a few more specific sub-categories:

  • An “Inferred Resource” is one that is based on limited sampling and is based on reasonably assumed, but limited information. Samples might include those from outcrops, trenches, pits or drill holes. Previous geological maps may allow for reasonable assumptions about the size and scope of the resource (Investors, 2013).
  • An “Indicated Resource” is a Resource whose quantity, grade (quality), shape, size and continuity can be more confidently reported. Larger and more closely spaced samples have more reliably established the characteristics of the resource to the point where preliminary economic viability and resource extraction calculations can be made (Investors, 2013).
  • A “Measured Resource” represents the highest level of geologic knowledge and confidence in a Resource. The Resource characteristics are well established through detailed and reliable exploration work. Economic and technical factors can be more confidently applied. Mine and production planning can give more detailed estimates of economic viability (Investors, 2013).

Inferred Resource is highly speculative in nature and hence cannot be used in the economic models for pre-feasibility and feasibility studies. However Inferred resource can be used for production planning in a Preliminary Economic Assessment (“PEA”).

While, indicated resources step it up with enough drilling to show reliable geology and grade continuity, making them useful for early stage and pre-feasibility.

Lastly, measured resource offers the strongest basis for converting resources into proven and probable reserves.

 

Which resource category do you think gives investors the most confidence? And why?

 

Reference:
https://kuchling.com/39-measured-vs-indicated-resources-do-we-treat-them-the-same/
Investors, S. @ G. for. (2013, June 25). Classification of Mineral Resources and Reserves | Geology for Investors. https://www.geologyforinvestors.com/classification-of-mineral-resources-and-reserves/
Image Rights: Autosprite.ru
What is the difference between inferred, indicated, and measured resources in mining?
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  1. Abdelmajid JARNI
    Abdelmajid JARNI
    2025-04-10T14:39:20-04:00Added an Comment on April 10, 2025 at 2:39 pm

    Bonjour

    Je vous remercie pour la qualité des informations postées. L’exposé est très bien rédigé. Les ressources et les réserves sont très bien expliquées. On peut facilement faire la différence entre les deux thermes.

    Amicalement

     

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