Erztyp

Erztyp is a term used in economic geology to describe a category of ore deposits that share a common genesis and characteristic mineralogy. The concept helps geologists, explorers, and engineers communicate about ore bodies by grouping them according to how they formed and what minerals they contain, rather than by location alone. While ore types are a practical guide, they are not rigid boundaries; many deposits show features of more than one Erztyp or evolve through several genetic stages.

Common Erztypen include magmatic, hydrothermal, sedimentary, and weathering-related (supergene) types. Magmatic ore types form in association with crystallizing magmas and are often rich in sulfide minerals, such as nickel-copper sulfide deposits found in layered intrusions. Hydrothermal ore types result from fluid-driven mineralization and commonly occur as veins and replacements containing lead, zinc, copper, gold, or silver. Sedimentary ore types include sediment-hosted or bedded deposits and SEDEX (sedimentary exhalative) deposits, which can host zinc, lead, copper, or iron. Weathering-related or lateritic ores develop through extensive surface weathering and concentration of metals, yielding iron, aluminum, nickel, or other commodity-rich laterites.

The Erztyp framework guides exploration strategies, target selection, and metallurgical planning by linking ore characteristics to regional geology and tectonic settings. Limitations arise because deposits can be polygenetic or transitional, blending features of multiple Erztypen. Consequently, classifications are tools for interpretation and planning rather than absolute categories, and they are adapted to regional geology and industry practice.