Abstract
Ore search is best begun within those areas where lineal elements of the regional structure intersect known tectonic belts. The further factors pre-disposing towards the formation of orebodies include conditioning elements of geological, mechanical, physical, and chemical origin.In discussion of these features it has been found convenient to group them under the headings of differential competency (due to geological conditioning); fracturing, fissuring to provide access channelways, tensional dilation and redistribution of values (all caused in response to the mechanical effects of crustal deformation); and thermal conditioning (embracing physical factors alone, or those of a physico-chemical nature). To these have been added the critical element of timing.The majority of Canadian ore deposits exhibit more than half of the attributes considered essential to the ore environment. Aside from luck, a study of these features is a pre-requisite for efficiency and success in an exploratory venture.
