We routinely use multi-element data packages available from major North American-based laboratories to analyze rock samples, soils, stream sediments, and water.

Rigorous QC protocols are used including statistical analysis of standards, duplicates, and replicates as well as using blanks in the sample stream.

Partial extractions are used on soil samples to identify potential deep targets.

Univariate and multivariate statistical tests are performed to determine the best normalization procedures for samples from a specific site to best determine anomalous thresholds. Discriminate analysis, factor analysis, and cluster analysis are used to determine geochemical signatures based on different mappable criteria and to determine processes related to hydrothermal system.

Contouring geochemical results with available software packages generates consistent results to compare anomalies.

Large data sets from previous industry and governmental studies are routinely analyzed using these techniques

We pioneered "Chemical Zonation Diagrams" by combining factor analysis with topological constraints associated with phase equilibria to generate process related potential zoning directly from multi-element data sets.

MINERALOGY

Polarized light microscopy and microphotography of mineralization and host rocks are performed using a research polarizing microscope in transmitted and reflected light. We currently use a fluorescence microscope ( on loan from GMI ) in a research project designed to test the applicability of this technology in the analysis of geological materials. Samples are prepared as slabs and thin-section chips using rock saws.

A stereo zoom microscope is used to study hand samples, soils, stream sediments, chips, and core.

Macrophotography is currently done using a single lens reflex 35 mm camera with bellows, macro lens, and close-up accessories. A proprietary method was developed during the 1970's to generate photographic images of thin-sections in plane polarized light and using crossed polarizers for textural analysis. We currently use a modern digital adaptation of this methodology. Access to a variety of electron microscopes and materials science-based analytical instruments are used in a variety of research projects in association with D. Krinsley and S. Boggs at the University of Oregon.