Abstract

The principle of mobile metal ion geochemistry analysis for soil samples taken from Essase Concession in Nkawkaw of the Eastern Region Ghana, during geochemical survey had accurately and sharply delineated target gold mineralization. Observations suggested that preferentially most metals (Ni, Zn, Pb, Cu, and As) including gold (Au) were located in the top 22 cm of the profile below the interface giving clearly an optimum sampling depth. Using the determined threshold of 3.1 ppm for Au, a broad anomalous zone was delineated with four strong anomalous (> 4.8 ppm) areas within the broad anomalous zone clearly outlined to suggest accurate location of surface or the sub-surface primary mineralization. The strong anomalous areas suggested signatures of structural corridor hosting the gold mineralization which appear to strike in two directions NNE – SSW and NE – SW. Mineralization style was inferred to be structurally controlled. The response ratios show that Ni, Pb, Zn and Cu have high concentrations and correlate well with Au on the concession, therefore they could serve as pathfinders in search for Au in that geochemical environment.

Key words: Mineral deposits, mobile metal ions, anomalous zone, structural corridor, primary mineralization.