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BLM Runs Check on Assay Services
May 2003 by Scott Harn
Most laboratories involved were sent 4 samples containing known values of gold, silver, platinum, and palladium, and 2 samples that were complex blanks. Prices charged for assay services varied from $60, for fire assays, to $2,250 for a “tin fusion method.” In our review of the report, price did not seem to be reflected as a determining factor for accuracy. In some cases, a lower cost for service provided a more accurate assay.
The results of assays conducted are compiled in a 34-page report, including 16 pages detailing the reasons for and methods used in the study, and 18 pages of results. The volume of the report does not allow for inclusion in this publication, but ICMJ’s Prospecting and Mining Journal has made the entire document available free on our web site:
Study preface (.pdf file) 0.8MB
Study results (.pdf file) 1.0MB
Many of the results published were well within acceptable limits, but some were so far out in “left field” that utilization could be disastrous. Substantial quantities of precious metals were reported in some blanks. Some samples that contained valuable quantities of precious metals were reported as “none detected.” As a result of this report, several assay labs were barred from advertising in our publication.
BLM should be applauded for conducting this badly needed study, and hopefully they will continue this public service. The resulting report should be a valuable tool as a validation for assay services.
Researchers Trace History of Hope Diamond
Researchers using computer analysis have traced the origin of the famed Hope Diamond, concluding that it was cut from a larger stone that was once part of the crown jewels of France.
How to Properly Ground Balance to Find the Most Gold
Many new detector operators and even some experienced ones don’t pay enough attention to keeping their detectors in proper balance. The result is false targets as well as incessant chirping and chatter.
Legislative and Regulatory Update
• The 1872 Mining Law
• Roadless decision due soon
• MSHA Review Commission
• Sage grouse decision due soon
Melman on Gold & Silver
…we cannot ignore the fact that several of the most widely-followed and respected economic voices are now raising questions about the potential near-term development of a full-blown market panic.
How to Stake Your Own Mining Claims—Part I
Many new prospectors start out prospecting in public areas and club claims, and this is perfectly fine, but the next step in the progression of becoming an experienced prospector is to locate and stake your own mining claims. Legislative Update
Robert Sanregret—Attorney at Law
Western Mining Council
National Association of Mining Districts
US Mining Industry Outlook Brighter
Smaller exploration and development companies, many of which were international, were driven out of the US during the Clinton era and are now looking for signs that it’s safe to come back. Policy changes, rising metal prices, a weakened dollar and a more positive hiring forecast may be the most attractive set of signs the industry has seen in years.
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