How To
Explosives and Mining
July 2011 by Jack W. Peters

How to Refine Silver—Pt I
Silver refining has been used from ancient times to change the characteristics of the metal. Early metallurgists refined silver by heating it a couple hundred degrees above its melting point and holding the metal at an elevated temperature for a period of time.
Why Assaying Placer Gold Deposits Doesn't Work
Let’s set up a thought experiment: Suppose you had some material that ran one ounce per ton gold, which is generally considered high grade to fantastic grade depending on the circumstances.
How To File A Mining Claim
Filing claims is actually quite easy, though there are a number of pitfalls that you should watch out for. Over the years, I have made just about every mistake you can with a mining claim, and have learned a few things to watch out for along the way.
The Underground Mining Adventure Continues
Our group of independent miners have been busy crafting a uniquely designed ladder/ore cart track from the bottom of an 85-foot mine shaft in a historical hard rock mine.
Ask the Experts
• How do I get mining claims appraised?
Small-Scale Hard Rock Mining With Water Recycling

Ask The Experts: Is there a safe DIY alternative to cyanide or mercury for extraction?
Q: With safety as a given, what can the average miner, or Joe-blow greenhorn do to identify and extract some metals or minerals with off-the-shelf products or natural ingredients?
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The Bawl Mill
• Can't We Just Do Something?
• Ask The Experts—14-day camping limit
• Legislative and Regulatory Update
• Mother Lode Leaf Gold
• Dredging The Outside Bend
• A Good Start
• WWII Vet & Prospector Still Going Strong
• Nevada Gold Value Up Along With Production
• 2011 National Mining Hall of Fame Inductees
• Melman on Gold & Silver
• Mining Stock Quotes & Mineral and Metal Prices
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Northern Gold Mining's Garrison Gold Property
• Wyoming's Billion Dollar Nugget—The Trilogy Ends