forekomst

Forekomst is a term used in geology, mineralogy, and mining to describe a natural occurrence of a mineral, mineralized rock, or ore deposit. It encompasses any location where a mineral is present, from a small vein exposed at the surface to large, subsurface ore bodies. The term is often used in reports and maps to indicate the presence of economically relevant minerals, but it also covers non-economic occurrences that may become valuable with new technologies or market conditions.

A forekomst is distinguished from an economically exploitable deposit by assessment of grade, tonnage, geometry, and accessibility. An occurrence becomes a deposit or reserve when studies show that it can be mined profitably under current prices and technology. Key characteristics used to describe a forekomst include the type and genesis (for example magmatic, hydrothermal, sedimentary, or metamorphic), the mineral assemblage, the grade or concentration of the target metal, the total amount of ore (tonnage), and the geometry and continuity of the ore body.

Exploration and assessment involve geological mapping, sampling, drilling, assaying, and geophysical and geochemical surveys, followed by resource estimation and classification according to local standards. Economic, legal, and environmental considerations also influence whether a forekomst is developed into mining operations.

In practice, forekomst serves as a foundational concept in mineral exploration, resource assessment, and land-use planning, linking the natural occurrence of minerals to potential industrial development.