Episode #6 – Defining mineralogy: What it is and why it matters

Mineralogy is the systematic study of minerals, encompassing their description, crystallography, and physical, chemical, and environmental characteristics. Its interpretation often varies by discipline: what is significant to a geologist may hold different relevance to a metallurgist.

From a metallurgical perspective, mineralogy offers critical insights, including:

• Modal analysis – identifying which minerals are present.
• Textural analysis – understanding how minerals are assembled, liberated, or locked together.
• Processing implications – determining the optimal processing route, expected concentrate grades and recoveries, potential wear challenges, and the behavior of penalty elements.

By integrating this information, operators can align mineralogical understanding with economic and business models, ensuring both technical efficiency and financial sustainability.

This episode sets the foundation for exploring the practical aspects of mineralogy and how mineralogical data is sourced.