A horizontal passage from the surface into a mine. Sometimes called a tunnel.

A geological feature, especially in the subsurface, distinguished by geological, geophysical, or geochemical means, which is different from the general surroundings and is often of potential economic value, and usually suggests the possibility of a mineral deposit.

Pertaining to clay or clay minerals; e.g. "argillic alteration" in which certain minerals of a rock are converted to minerals of the clay group.

To analyze the proportions of metals in an ore, to test an ore or mineral for composition, purity, weight, or other properties of commercial interest.

The process of refilling an excavation, a mine opening, or the space around a foundation.

Any of the more common and more chemically active metals, e.g. lead, copper.

A course-grained clastic rock, composed of angular broken rock fragments held together by a mineral cement or in a fine-grained matrix. The fragments have sharp edges and unworn corners.

Assets, purchased as a long term investment for generating profit, such as buildings, plant and machinery and fixtures etc.

A mineral compound characterized by a fundamental anionic structure.

Includes site costs for all mining (excluding deferred stripping costs), processing and administration, but are exclusive of royalties, production taxes, depreciation, reclamation, financing costs, capital costs and exploration costs.