Orebodies

Orebodies are discrete zones of rock that contain a concentration of minerals that can be mined and processed at a profit. An orebody is defined by its geology and by economic feasibility: the boundaries are drawn where the grade, tonnage, metallurgical recoveries, and current metal prices justify extraction. The orebody is the physical manifestation of a mineral deposit that mine planners use to design extraction and processing methods.

Orebodies vary in size, shape, and internal zoning. They may take the form of narrow veins, disseminated deposits in which minerals are spread through host rock, massive or semi-massive sulfide bodies, or stratiform and bedded deposits. Their geometry is controlled by lithology and structural features, such as faults and bends in the host rocks, and by past hydrothermal or magmatic processes that concentrate the ore. Continuity of grade and thickness governs mine planning and block models.

Discovering an orebody involves drilling, sampling, and geophysical and geochemical surveys to establish its extent and grade. Resources indicate the amount of material with potential economic value, while reserves denote the portion that is economically mineable under current conditions. Estimation relies on grade-tonnage models, confidence levels, and feasibility studies, including metallurgical recovery, processing costs, and price assumptions.

Mining methods depend on orebody geometry and depth, with open-pit extraction used for shallow, large-tonnage orebodies and underground methods for deeper or narrower orebodies. After extraction, ore is processed to recover metals; environmental management, permitting, and tailings disposal are integral to project planning. Orebodies are central to mine development, informing extraction sequencing, mine design, and long-term resource management.