Boulder tracing and geological mapping of the bedrock

Boulder-tracing and geological mapping of the bedrock are often the first step in exploration. When boulder-tracing, one looks for mineralised and altered boulders. Geologically interesting boulders are surveyed and sampled with a hammer (figure 1). The sample is then sent for analysis to determine the metal content. If mineralised boulders are discovered, one continues to search for more mineralised boulders in the opposite direction to the flow of the inland ice. With the discovery of several mineralised boulders in this direction, a boulder-trail can be determined. By following the boulder-trail, the source of the mineralised boulders can be found, and hence the mineralisation (figure 2).

When geological mapping, one looks for outcrops in the terrain. The outcrops are mapped and interesting outcrops are sampled and analysed for metal content. The geological information is then compiled on maps, together with all other available information, such as geophysical and geochemical data.

Boulder-tracing and geological mapping do not cause any damage to the environment.

Fig 1. Boulder-tracing.

Fig 2. Simplified picture depicting how a boulder-trail from a mineralisation can occur.