Geochemical and Mineralogical Characterization of the Gold-Bearing Deposit for Efficient Beneficiation Process

Abstract

The optimization of gold beneficiation processes requires a comprehensive understanding of the geochemical and mineralogical characteristics of the ore. This study investigates gold-bearing deposits from selected artisanal mining sites (Bakolori dam, Danfako and Gimawa) in Zamfara State, Northwestern Nigeria, using integrated geochemical (X-ray fluorescence), mineralogical (X-ray diffraction) and atomic absorption spectrophotometry (AAS) techniques. Fifteen representative ore samples were collected from the mine site with quartz-vein hosted mineralization zones and weathered lateritic profiles. The representative samples were analyzed using X-ray fluorescence (XRF), inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICP-MS), X-ray diffraction (XRD) and atomic absorption spectrophotometry (AAS). XRF results revealed high concentrations of SiO2 (68.69–79.55%) and Al2O3 (13.02–15.45%), with Fe2O3 levels ranging from 1.14% to 7.50%. Trace indicator elements such as Sb2O3 and SrO were present in low concentrations. AAS confirmed the presence of gold (Au) with concentrations between 0.4845% and 0.5719%, highest in Bakolori Dam samples, indicating a predominance in alluvial deposits. XRD analysis identified quartz (13–60%) as the dominant mineral, with significant kaolinite, chlorite, sillimanite, and hydromolysite. The mineralogical composition suggests the potential for by-product recovery of industrial minerals alongside gold extraction. These findings provide essential mineralogical and chemical insights to optimize beneficiation and enhance the economic value of Zamfara gold deposits.