Overview
Chris Ralph and Alex Dahl discuss the method of "loaming" for gold prospecting, sharing field experiences, sample collection strategies, and key indicators for locating gold sources. Chris explains the practical and historical context of loaming, giving step-by-step guidance, and shares additional resources for aspiring prospectors.
Field Discovery and Sampling Process
- Alex found a gold-rich spot using loaming by taking and labeling dirt samples along a hillside.
- Samples were screened and panned to determine gold content, with positive results marked with flags.
- He traced a clear line of gold uphill, eventually locating a gold-bearing quartz vein at a structural intersection.
- One pan sample yielded about one gram of gold, suggesting a potentially rich pocket due to vein weathering.
- Sampling aims to define the extent and mineralization of the gold source.
- The site appears to be missed by previous miners, showing no evidence of old sampling or trenching.
Loaming Technique and Theory
- Loaming involves collecting and panning soil samples across a slope to track gold concentrations uphill to their source.
- As prospectors move closer to the source, the gold-bearing zone narrows, requiring more frequent sampling.
- The method dates back to gold rush times and works well in areas with known historical gold pockets.
- Gold's shape (angular vs. rounded) can indicate proximity to the source, with angular gold found closer to veins.
- The most productive spots are often at the center of the gold dispersion cone downhill from the pocket.
Best Practices and Field Tips
- Select areas with small drainages to avoid multiple mixed gold sources.
- Look for vein quartz and mineralization indicators like pyrite or limonite, but quartz alone doesn't guarantee gold.
- Number and flag samples for accurate mapping and tracking as you move up the slope.
- Cross-slope sampling is critical to locate the center and edges of the gold dispersion cone.
- Dry panning is less reliable; it's recommended to bring water for panning samples.
Limitations and Effectiveness
- The loaming technique is not universally effective; success depends on local geology and past gold occurrences.
- Persistence in testing multiple hillsides is necessary, as not every location will yield gold.
- This method can be complemented with metal detecting, especially for finding gold nuggets.
Additional Resources and Community Engagement
- Chris has authored a comprehensive prospecting book covering techniques and geology, available on Amazon.
- He edits a monthly prospecting magazine (ICMJ’s Prospecting and Mining Journal) for further education.
- His website offers extensive free information and guidance for prospectors.
- Viewers are encouraged to comment, subscribe, and follow for more content and community support.