From Geology to Compliance: The Complete Mineral Resource Estimation (MRE) Workflow
A Mineral Resource Estimate (MRE) isn’t just a number—it’s a technically disciplined, auditable process that transforms geological data into an asset recognized by global reporting codes. 🔷 1.Geological Interpretation Understanding lithology, structure, alteration, & mineralization controls is the first step. 🛠️ It defines domain boundaries & underpins the entire modeling strategy 🔷 2.Data Quantity & Quality Review Drill density, spatial coverage & continuity Sampling recovery, accuracy & QA/QC 📌 Only verified data qualifies for use in compliant models 🔷 3.Data Validation Database cleanup: fix survey errors, depth overlaps, duplicates ✅ A validated dataset is a non-negotiable input for geological modeling 🔷 4.Geological & Grade Domaining 3D modeling of lithological units, oxidation fronts & mineralised envelopes Length-weighted compositing ensures uniform sample support 🔷 5.Grade Capping & Statistical Analysis Remove influence of extreme outliers Analyze grade distributions, CV & normality 🎯 Critical in high-variance or nuggety systems. 🔷 6.Geostatistical Modeling Build variograms per domain Quantify nugget, sill, range & anisotropy 📈 Forms the basis of robust kriging estimates. 🔷 7.QKNA – Quantitative Kriging Neighbourhood Analysis Optimize: Search radius and ellipsoid geometry Block discretization & sample limits 🔍 Ensures estimation precision & conditional bias minimization 🔷 8.Grade Estimation Select method aligned with domain geometry and data behavior: Ordinary Kriging (OK) Inverse Distance Weighting (IDW) Multiple Indicator Kriging (MIK) ⚙️ Methodology must respect domain boundaries and spatial continuity. 🔷 9.Model Validation Swath plots and local/global comparisons Composite vs block validation ✅ Reinforces geological consistency and statistical reliability. 🔷 10.Resource Classification Apply code-compliant criteria (JORC / NI 43-101): Measured – dense data, robust variograms Indicated – moderate support Inferred – wider spaced, lower confidence 📊 Classification underpins project risk, valuation, and disclosure. 🔷 11. Economic Assessment & Cut-Off Application Evaluate Reasonable Prospects for Eventual Economic Extraction (RPEEE): Use recovery, operating cost, and price assumptions Apply block-level cut-off grade logic 📉 Ensures the resource has economic relevance, not just geological presence. 🔷 12. Compliant Mineral Resource Statement Report tonnage, grade, metal content by category. 📝 Signed by a Competent Person (JORC) or Qualified Person (NI 43-101). Transparent. Defensible. Compliant An MRE is where geological confidence, statistical rigor, and economic logic converge. It forms the technical backbone of any mine development strategy, investor decision, or feasibility study.