This book addresses the origin of gold deposits to answer questions of science and curiosity. These answers contribute in turn to the improved exploration and mining of gold. Initially there is a summary of the methods used to address the genesis of gold deposits including some of the essential science and concepts. Five basic observations follow that apply to many gold deposits and need to be considered in any genetic ideas. Magmatic processes enriching gold are discussed followed by the role of aqueous fluids during gold deposit formation at elevated temperatures and pressures. Modifying effects after deposit formation include high-grade metamorphism, retrogression, weathering, and erosion. The main types of gold deposits are then explained within the spectrum of viable genetic ideas, with informal names for these examples that include gold-only, gold-plus, Carlin, slate-belt, epithermal, porphyry, iron oxide copper gold, and Archean greenstone. Case histories are included in which the role of gold geology contributed directly to discoveries—one example is at the province-scale and another at the goldfield-scale. Unlike other books on the subject, this one addresses virtually all gold deposit types rather than focusing on one type in isolation. The primary readership includes industry geologists, senior undergraduates, postgraduates, and those with some knowledge of science and an interest in the gold industry.

This book is the first comprehensive compilation of data and ideas relating to the origin, evolution, and significance of the world's greenstone belts, and includes contributions from over 100 experts. In the first of two parts, reviews are presented on broad topics relating to the geology of greenstone belts and their surroundings, covering mainly post-1980 research. These include: historical, sedimentologic, volcanic, structural, metamorphic, metallogenic, and thermal aspects; summaries of mafic/ultramafic magnetism, strain, fluids, geophysics and deep structures; relations with associated granitoids, tectonic evolution, and geochronology; and field relationships. The second part takes a more focused look at the geology of specific cratons and individual greenstone belts worldwide, including Archaean, Proterozoic, and Phanerozoic examples. Detailed geologic maps on large and small scales, extensive tabulations of data, and short written summaries of the salient features are included for all belts. The book will be a valuable reference tool for academic and industrial researchers, students, explorationists, and anyone interested in the evolution of Earth processes over geologic time.

The goldfields have been a powerful influence on both Australian and Western Australian history. Gold has driven development in many parts of Australia. A great number of family lives have been shaped by migration to and from the fields. Reminiscences, and family and local histories have produced powerful and oft-repeated narratives. This book moves beyond the oft-told. It tells of Aboriginal history, of people who have ‘always been here, and we always will be here’. Women’s and children’s lives are explored as well as those of prospectors and miners,the settlement of ‘Afghans’ and the story of pastoralism.