Step by Step Guide to Finding Gold
by Michael Bernzweig
Step by Step Guide to Finding Gold
Gold prospecting is an exciting and potentially lucrative hobby for anyone with a taste for adventure. However, this can also be a very frustrating experience if you do not possess the necessary knowledge and tools. The key to having a successful gold-hunting expedition is preparation-if you know what to look for and where to find it, you're more likely to strike gold.
Here are some tips on how to find gold:
- Do Your Research
- Learn the Geology of a Mining Area
- Learn About Gold Indicators
- Start River Panning
- Use Your Online Resources
- Understand Legalities and Land Ownership
- Get the Right Gear
- Choose the Right Time for Gold Prospecting
- Choose the Right Area for Gold Prospecting
- Learn Different Placer Deposit Types
- Drywashing for Gold
- Utilize Various Gold Metal Detecting Search Methods
Finding gold can be a challenging and rewarding experience, but it's important to do your research before heading out into the field. If done right, the hunt for gold can open up a new world of fun and excitement for you and your loved ones. Taking the time to prepare for your next gold-hunting excursion will greatly increase your chances of striking gold. This article examines some of the best ways to find gold and some of the most common gold prospecting techniques.
1. Do Your Research
Researching is the most crucial step in gold prospecting. It is essential to understand the geology and history of an area before you start looking for gold. There are many books and websites that can provide you with information about gold ingot locations, legalities, and even the value of gold ingots over time. You can also talk to local prospectors and ask them for tips.
To research, look at mining reports, geological books, old newspapers, and local histories. You can also look for old mining claims in an area. Once you have a general idea of where gold has been found in the past, you can start looking for it yourself.
One good way to research is to join a prospecting club in your area. This is a great way to meet other prospectors and learn from their experiences.
Prospecting clubs, like the Gold Prospectors Association, often have claims that members can use, saving you a lot of time and effort in finding your own claim.
Another benefit of joining a club is that they usually offer classes on topics such as panning, sluicing, and metal detecting. These classes can be very helpful if you are new to prospecting.
2. Learn the Geology of a Mining Area
The geology of mining is important to understand when prospecting for real gold and precious metal. There are two main types of deposits: placer and lode.
Placer deposits are typically found in streams or rivers and are composed of loose gravels that contain gold dust or gold nuggets. These deposits are formed when gold is eroded from rocks and washed downstream by the action of water.
Lode gold deposits are found in solid rock and are usually veins or pockets of gold that have been chemically precipitated from solution. Most of the world's gold has been mined from lode deposits.
To find out what type of deposit is in an area, you can consult geological maps, which will show you the distribution of different rock types. Once you know what kind of deposit you're looking for, you can start prospecting.
To learn more about the geology of mining areas, you can take a class at a local community college or university. You can also talk to a local geological survey office to learn about the history of gold recovery, like the Gold Rush in Central City, Gold Hill, Black Hills, South Dakota, and North Carolina's Reed Gold Mine in 1779, among others.
Another great way to learn about the geology of an area is to go on a guided tour led by a professional geologist. These tours are often offered in mining areas that are open to the public.
Guided tours are a great way to learn about an area and what kinds of gold deposits might be found there. They can also be fun and give you a chance to meet other people with similar interests.
When researching an area, it's important to remember that gold can be found in many different kinds of rocks, including sedimentary, metamorphic, and igneous. It's also important to remember that gold is often found in association with other minerals, such as quartz or sulfides.
Knowing the geology of an area will help you determine where to look for gold and what kind of rock to look for. It will also give you a better understanding of how gold deposits form.
3. Learn About Gold Indicators
Gold indicators are features that can help you identify areas that are likely to contain gold. They are usually geological features that are associated with gold-bearing rocks.
Common gold indicators include:
- Quartz veins
- Alteration zones
- Shear zones
- Black sand, and
- Contact metamorphism
Quartz veins are one of the most common indicators of gold. They are often found in metamorphic rocks and can be an excellent place to look for a gold vein.
Alteration zones are areas where rocks have been changed by heat or chemical activity. These changes can make it easier for gold to be deposited in an area. Shear zones are areas where two different rock types have been forced together by tectonic activity. These areas can also be good places to look for gold.
Contact metamorphism occurs when two different types of rock come into contact with each other. This can happen when magma rises through the Earth's crust and comes into contact with sedimentary rocks. The heat from the magma can change the chemical composition of the rocks, making it easier for gold to be deposited.
When you find gold, you almost always come across some black sands. These sands are made up of iron-rich material, the most popular of which are hematite and magnetite. Black sands aren't an excellent indicator of gold since they're present in abundance in areas with little or no gold. You will frequently discover gold with these black sands where there is gold.
Knowing about these gold indicators will help you identify areas that are likely to contain gold deposits.
Research is essential if you want to have any chance of finding gold. You need to learn where gold has been found in the past, what kind of rocks it is found in, and what geological features are associated with it. By doing your research, you will increase your chances of finding gold.
4. Start River Panning
River gold panning is a type of placer mining and traditional mining that gets gold from a placer deposit by using a pan. River mining was used popularly during the California Gold Rush. The process is one of the most basic ways to extract gold, and it's especially popular among geology hobbyists because of its low cost. River panning is simply the act of swirling water around in a pan to separate out the heavy materials, like gold.
You can do this in any river or stream that has rocks and gravel. The best time to go river gold panning is after a rainstorm when the water is high, and there is more material to work with.
To start river panning, you will need a few supplies:
- A gold pan
- A shovel
- A bucket
- A sieve (optional), or
- A gold panning kit
Over time, rivers will meander back and forth across their floodplains as they slowly erode away at their banks. The river erodes the rocks and soil that make up its bed and banks as the river flows downstream. This erosion process is what gives rivers their distinctive shape and character. It also affects where gold deposits can be found in them.
The force of a river's water impacts where gold might be found. If the flow of a river isn't changed by the current, gold will settle to the bottom and become heavy. As a result, most natural resources like gold in a river will be located near the bottom, where the water is slower moving.
Other, larger machines are more suited to commercial gold recovery and utilize pumps and other machinery but still work similarly to sluice boxes and power sluices. Some larger gold mining machines include:
- Highbankers
- Combos
- Dredges
Highbankers are a type of power sluice that uses a pump to force water through a sluice box. They are common in areas where there is not enough water to use a suction dredge.
A sluice box is a long, narrow box that is used to separate gold from sediment. It works by using gravity and water flow to force the lighter sediment through the sluice while the heavier gold remains behind.
Dredges are large, powerful machines used to vacuum up sediment from river beds. They are most commonly used in areas where there is already a lot of gold present.
Once you have your supplies, head to a river or stream with good potential for finding gold. Look for areas with lots of rocks and gravel. Avoid areas where the water is too deep or where there is too much vegetation.
When you've found a good spot, start shoveling some of the gravel into your pan. Then, use the water to swirl the material around in the pan. The goal is to eliminate all of the lighter materials so that only heavy materials (like gold) are left behind.
5. Use Your Online Resources
Online resources can be vital when learning how to find gold. The internet is a great place to start your research. You can find a wealth of information about where to look for gold, what kind of equipment you need, and how to pan for gold.
Another great online resource is YouTube. There are many videos that show you how to find gold, what to look for, and how to pan for it. Watching these videos can give you some great ideas about where to look and what to do when you find gold.
You can also find forums where people discuss their experiences prospecting for gold. These forums can be a great way to learn from other people's mistakes and successes.
6. Understand Legalities and Land Ownership
Land ownership is a big deal when it comes to prospecting for gold. You need to ensure that you have the owner's permission before you start prospecting on their land. When it comes to public land, there are usually different rules and regulations that you need to follow. Some state and public lands don't allow for gold prospecting or require a permit, so doing your research is important.
Before you start prospecting, make sure you do your research and understand the legalities involved. This will help you avoid any problems down the road. There are also some legalities that you need to be aware of. For example, in the United States, you cannot use a suction dredge in most national parks, and in North Carolina, among other states, gold prospecting is not allowed in national parks. Keep in mind laws are dynamic, and you need to keep up to date with the latest regulations in your area.
You can find out who owns the land by looking up the deed at your local county clerk's office. You can also check with the Bureau of Land Management to see if the land is public or state-owned.
Once you have this information, you can start planning your gold prospecting trip! Just remember to get permission from the landowners and follow all rules and regulations.
7. Get the Right Gear
Gold prospecting gear is relatively simple and inexpensive to get. The most important thing is that you have the right tools for the job.
One of the most important pieces of equipment that you will need is a good gold pan. Gold pans come in all shapes and sizes, but they all work essentially the same way. They are used to separate gold from sediment by using gravity and water flow. Taking the time to learn how to start gold panning correctly will pay off for years to come.
You will also need a shovel and a bucket to collect material from rivers and streams. A classifier can also be helpful because it will help you separate out the larger rocks and gravel.
Other essential pieces of gear include a sieve, which is used to sort through the material, and a sluice box, which is used to separate gold from sediment.
With desert prospecting or gold metal detecting, the gear might be slightly different. You'll need:
- A gold metal detector
- A pick and shovel
- An off-road vehicle
- A GPS system
- Proper safety gear
The right gear will help you be successful in your gold prospecting endeavors. Make sure you have all the essential equipment before you head out on your trip.
Gold detectors are used to find small pieces of gold particles, mineral materials, and jewelry. They work by transmitting an electronic signal bounced off metal objects or gold nuggets. When the signal is returned, the detector interprets it and gives the user an audio or visual indication of the presence of metal.
Gold prospecting detectors are available in two varieties:
- High-frequency VLF and
- Pulse Induction designs.
Some of the best gold detectors on the market include:
- Fisher Gold Bug Pro
- Garrett Axiom
- Garrett AT Gold
- Nokta Makro Gold Kruzer
- Garrett Goldmaster 24K
- Minelab Gold Monster
Choose the right gold detector for your needs and budget. With the right equipment, you'll be on your way to finding gold in no time!
When it comes to finding gold, the right equipment can make all the difference. You'll likely need some additional hand tools and accessories to make your trip as comfortable and successful. In addition to a metal detector, there are several prospecting supplies and accessories that can help make the process easier, including:
Prospecting accessories like:
- Safety goggles
- Processing equipment
- Water
- A backpack
- Safety hats, and more.
Shop for a range of gold prospecting detectors!
8. Choose the Right Time for Gold Prospecting
Choosing the right time for gold prospecting is essential if you want to succeed. The best time to look for gold is in the early morning or late evening when the sun is not as strong.
The heat can make it difficult to work, and the glare makes it hard to see. You'll also want to avoid times when there is a lot of rain or snow. Too much water can make it difficult to pan for gold.
The best time of year for gold prospecting varies depending on where you are in the world. In general, spring and summer are good times because the weather is more stable, and there is less chance of cold temperatures or bad weather interfering with your trip.
Some of the most effective times to gold prospect include:
- After heavy rainfall or flood - this can help wash away debris and uncover new areas of gold-bearing ground.
- In the spring - when melting snow runoff helps to flush gold nuggets or a gold flake down from the mountains. In some areas, winter can actually be a good time because the water level in rivers and streams is lower, making it easier to pan for gold.
- When water levels are low - this can expose new areas of gold-bearing ground that might otherwise be inaccessible.
No matter what time of year you choose to go prospecting, check the weather forecast in advance and come prepared for whatever conditions you might encounter.
9. Choose the Right Area for Gold Prospecting
Choosing the right area for gold prospecting is a bit more difficult. The best place to look for gold is in an area where there is a lot of water. This could be a river, stream, or even the beach.
We've already discussed the importance of doing adequate research when it comes to the geology of mining areas. This is doubly important when you're prospecting for gold.
You'll want to look for areas with a high concentration of gold. One way to do this is to look for areas where there has been previous mining activity. Another way is to look for geological features that are known to be associated with gold deposits, such as quartz or gold veins.
Once you've narrowed down your search area, it's time to start exploring! Be sure to bring along a shovel, pick, and other essential prospecting supplies so you can start looking for gold as soon as you arrive.
Some best practices when choosing an area for gold prospecting include:
- Researching the area in advance
- Looking for areas with a high concentration of gold ore
- Prospect caves, creeks, and gulches surrounding lode mines
- Look for comparable/unworked geologic regions near lode mines
- Identifying geological features associated with gold deposits
- Look for man-made evidence of mining like rock piles or trenches
- Look for important rock types like granite, schist, and gneiss
You'll want to look for areas that have been known to produce gold in the past. You can check with your local prospecting club or do some research online to find out where the best places to look are.
Once you've exhausted all of the easy-to-reach places, it's time to start thinking about prospecting in harder-to-reach places.
Some of the best places to look for gold are:
- In areas that have been previously mined
- Behind waterfalls
- In crevices and cracks in rocks
- In old riverbeds
These are just a few of the places where you can look for gold. It's important to use your imagination and think outside the box when it comes to prospecting for gold.
Gold is often found in areas with recent geological activity, such as earthquakes or volcanic eruptions. This is because these events often expose new surfaces that have not been weathered by wind or rain, which makes them more likely to contain gold deposits. Another good place to look for gold is in riverbeds and streams. Water flowing over gold-bearing rocks can wash away debris and uncover a nugget that has been buried beneath the surface.
10. Learn Different Placer Gold Deposit Types
Knowing the types of placer deposits can help you understand where to look for gold. There are two main types of placer deposits: alluvial and eluvial.
Alluvial deposits are formed by rivers and streams. These deposits tend to be large and easy to find. Eluvial deposits, on the other hand, are smaller and can be more difficult to find.
There are also a few sub-types of alluvial deposits, including:
- Residual Placers - a concentration of gold at or near its hard rock source
- Beach Placers - fine gold found in beach sands
- Glacial Deposits - gold moved and deposited by glacial movement
- Flood Gold - gold moved during flooding
When prospecting for gold, it's important to remember that the type of deposit will dictate where you should look. Alluvial deposits are typically found near rivers and streams, while eluvial deposits are more likely to be found on hillsides or in desert areas.
11. Drywashing for Gold
Drywashing is a mining method that uses air to separate gold from sand and gravel. The drywasher consists of an engine that blows air through a hose to create a dust storm in the hopper.
The hopper is filled with pay dirt and then shaken so that the gold falls to the bottom while the waste material is blown out of the hopper.
Drywashing is an effective way to find gold, but it's important to keep in mind that it's not as efficient as other methods like panning or using a power sluice.
Power sluices, like The Gold Cube, are a much more efficient method of gold prospecting. The Gold Cube consists of stacking trays made with low-density polyethylene and is designed to catch larger gold nuggets and works by using a water pump to send water through the trays. Fine gold recovery methods like The Gold Cube can help you prospect more efficiently and increase your chances of finding gold.
12. Utilize Various Gold Metal Detecting Search Methods
When using your gold metal detector, there can be an issue with knowing what ground you've already covered. That's where search methods come in handy. Some of the most effective search methods are:
- The chaining method, and
- The gridding method
Be on the Lookout for Fake Gold
Commonly referred to as Fools gold and it can be found in three minerals. As one of the most common minerals, pyrite is often mistaken for gold. Weathered mica and chalcopyrite can also appear gold. Unlike gold, these minerals crumble, flake, or powder when poked with a metal point. If you scrape gold on porcelain, you'll get a golden yellow streak. Common micas leave a white streak, while chalcopyrite and pyrite leave a green to black streak.
Gridding Methods
The gridding method for gold metal detecting involves marking off an area with stakes and string. Once the area is marked off, you'll start at one corner and systematically work your way across the grid, covering every inch of ground as you go.
The procedure is straightforward. Gridding is the process of crisscrossing an area from various directions. The amount of attention you pay to a location will be determined by how much gold you find there. You can thoroughly work an area and make sure that you cover every square inch of ground utilizing this method.
Traditional gridding is a great way to methodically work an area. It's important to be as systematic as possible when using this method and to make sure that you cover all of the ground in the area completely.
Modern Gridding Method using a GPS is a bit more complex, but it's a great way to ensure that you cover all of the ground in an area thoroughly. Using a GPS, you'll first mark off the boundaries of the area you want to search.
Next, you'll set up a series of waypoints within the boundary. These waypoints will be spaced at regular intervals and will form a grid over the area. Finally, you'll start at one corner of the grid and work your way along, making sure to stop at each waypoint and thoroughly search the area around it.
Both traditional gridding and modern gridding using a GPS are great ways to make sure that you cover all of the ground in an area thoroughly when gold metal detecting.
Chaining Methods
The chaining method is similar to the gridding method, but instead of using string to mark off your search area, you'll use a length of chain. This method is especially useful if you're searching an area that's too large to grid off.
Some methods to use for chaining include:
- Chain or heavy object- This technique entails dragging a heavy rope (or sinker) along behind you with a chain (or lead ball) attached to mark the terrain behind you.
- Mark with your feet - With this approach, rather than tying a chain to track your progress, you stomp the ground with your boots. It's not as effective as using a chain.
- Surveyors tape/pegs - Pegs at each end of the gridline, then attach cord or surveyors tape to display your grid mark. You move the pegs and line sideways to the next gridline after you finish one line. One advantage this method has is that it leaves no chain marks to indicate where gold may be found.
Gold prospecting can be a fun and lucrative hobby, but it's important to know where to look for gold and how to extract it properly. There are multiple methods for gold prospecting, and the best method for you will depend on the resources you have available and the area you're searching.
Sluicing, dredging, river panning, and metal detecting are all great methods for gold prospecting. Be sure to try out each one to see which works best for you. With a little patience and practice, you'll be well on your way to finding gold!
Copyright 2022 Detector Electronics Corp.