China finds gold deposit in Hunan valued at $83 billion
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Geologists in China's Hunan province have discovered a super-large gold deposit with estimated reserves valued at $83 billion. More than 40 gold veins were identified at depths of around 2,000 meters beneath the Wangu deposit in Pingjiang county. The discovery marks the largest known gold deposit in history.
Key Facts
- The deposit contains an estimated 300 tonnes of gold at depths of around 2,000 metres.
- At depths of up to 3,000 metres, estimated reserves exceed 1,000 tonnes of gold.
- The maximum gold content in ore samples is 138 grams per tonne.
- Exploration used 3D geological modelling and other modern technologies.
- Gold was also found on the periphery of the deposit, indicating possible additional prospects.
Discovery Details
Geologists identified more than 40 gold veins at depths of about 2,000 metres beneath the Wangu deposit in Pingjiang county, Hunan province. Preliminary estimates indicate about 300 tonnes of gold at that depth. At depths of up to 3,000 metres, estimated reserves exceed 1,000 tonnes. The total value of the gold reserves is estimated at approximately $83 billion.
Geological Assessment
Chen Rulin, a mineral exploration expert, said visible gold was found in rock samples. The maximum gold content is 138 grams per tonne of ore. Exploration employed modern technologies, including three-dimensional geological modelling. Gold was also detected on the periphery of the deposit, suggesting additional prospective areas. This makes it the largest known gold deposit in history.
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China finds gold deposit in Hunan valued at $83 billion
