The Wafi-Golpu project in Papua New Guinea is one of the most talked-about mineral deposits in the Southwest Pacific. Located in a mineral-rich part of the country, the area hosts a large porphyry-style deposit that contains significant quantities of both copper and gold. Its geological scale, potential for long-term production and the broader social, economic […]
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Smithsonite is a striking and historically important mineral that often delights collectors and scientists alike. Chemically a zinc carbonate (ZnCO3), it forms in the oxidized zones of zinc-bearing ore deposits and displays a wide palette of colors and habits. This article explores its chemistry, physical characteristics, global occurrences, economic roles as an ore of zinc,
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The Ashanti gold mining area in central Ghana is one of West Africa’s most historically and economically important mineral provinces. Stretching across a landscape of gently rolling hills, tropical forest patches and rural settlements, this district has shaped local communities, national policy and international mining investment for well over a century. The following article explores
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Vanadium quietly shapes many technologies and materials that underpin modern infrastructure, energy systems, and advanced manufacturing. Though seldom mentioned outside specialist circles, this transition metal plays outsized roles in strengthening alloys, catalyzing chemical reactions, and enabling novel approaches to large-scale energy storage. The following exposition explores where vanadium is found, how it is used, the
The global market for rare earth oxides is at a strategic inflection point. Rapid technological change, decarbonization policies, and shifting geopolitical dynamics are driving unprecedented interest in these materials that underpin modern magnets, catalysts, and electronics. This article examines the mechanisms and methodologies for forecasting demand for rare earth oxides, highlights the main demand drivers
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Dioptase is a strikingly colored copper mineral prized by mineralogists, gem cutters, and collectors for its vivid green to bluish-green crystals. Though not commonly used in mainstream industry due to its relative softness and scarcity, dioptase occupies an important niche in the world of decorative stones, mineralogical study, and cultural lore. In the following sections
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The Ahafo mine is one of West Africa’s prominent gold-producing operations and an important part of Ghana’s modern mining landscape. This article examines where the mine is located, the geology and ores it exploits, how it operates, its economic significance for local and national stakeholders, and several noteworthy technical, environmental and social aspects that make
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Celestite is a striking and scientifically important mineral known for its often delicate sky-blue crystals and its role as the principal ore of strontium. Beyond its visual appeal, celestite is tied to a variety of industrial, geological and cultural uses — from serving as a source for strontium chemicals used in ceramics and pyrotechnics to
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The Tarkwa mining complex, set in the forested lowlands of southwestern Ghana, is one of the country’s most famous and productive gold-producing areas. Its combination of large-scale open pits, processing plants, and a long mining history make it a focal point for discussions about resource-driven development, environmental management, and the evolving technologies of modern gold
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The Obuasi Mine sits at the heart of Ghana’s historic Ashanti gold belt and has been a keystone of the country’s mining identity for more than a century. This article examines where the mine is located, what it produces, the ways it influences the local and national economy, and several aspects that make Obuasi particularly
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