A statistical study in mining exploration as related to the Kolar gold fields (India)

Abstract

Kolar, Hutti and Ramagiri are the best known gold deposits in India. The geological structure prevailing at the Kolar gold fields is similar to that in the gold fields of South Africa, Australia and other parts of the world. The present study is a case study and deals with the application of certain statistical tools for the solution of mine valuation problems relating to the Oriental lode (Nundydroog mines) of the Kolar gold fields. Estimates for means of blocks of auriferous ore, based on the nature of gold value properties found to be lognormal, are obtained by using the techniques developed by Sichel and Krige. These are given with the corresponding arithmetic means. Empirical relationships, between various estimates and corresponding arithmetic means, are worked out together with coefficients of correlation. A study of the joint distribution of variables is made for effective pay limits on the basis of peripheral values, which can be taken into consideration for stoping through a block of ore. The concept of under- or over-valuation in low- or high-grade blocks of ore respectively is also examined. The lode is quite erratic and no useful empirical relationship between depth and grade of ore is apparent.