Prospecting

[2][citation needed] The traditional methods of prospecting involved combing through the countryside, often through creek beds and along ridgelines and hilltops, often on hands and knees looking for signs of mineralization in the outcrop.

For instance Patrick (Paddy) Hannan, who discovered the Golden Mile, Kalgoorlie, died without receiving anywhere near a fraction of the value of the gold contained in the lodes.

Modern prospectors today[clarification needed] rely on training, the study of geology, and prospecting technology.

Prospecting of minerals found in mobile fluids,[clarification needed] as is often the case of lithium, adds a "temporal element" to be considered.

Airborne gravimeters and magnetometers can collect data from vast areas and highlight anomalous geologic features.

[5] Three-dimensional inversions of audio-magnetotellurics (AMT) is used to find conductive materials up to a few kilometers into the Earth, which has been helpful to locate kimberlite pipes, as well as tungsten and copper.

These low frequency waves will respond differently based on the material they pass through, allowing for analysts to create three-dimensional images of potential ore bodies or volcanic intrusions.

[9][10] Geochemical prospecting involves analyzing the chemical properties of rock samples, drainage sediments, soils, surface and ground waters, mineral separates, atmospheric gases and particulates, and even plants and animals.