Locatable Minerals
Minerals subject to exploration and extraction through mining claims under the Mining Law of 1872.
Detailed Definition
Locatable minerals are those minerals that can be acquired through the location of mining claims under the General Mining Law of 1872. These are distinguished from leasable minerals (oil, gas, coal) and salable minerals (sand, gravel, stone).
Categories of locatable minerals
Metallic Minerals: - Precious metals: gold, silver, platinum - Base metals: copper, lead, zinc, iron - Strategic metals: uranium, titanium, tungsten
Nonmetallic Minerals: - Industrial minerals: fluorspar, mica, feldspar - Gemstones: diamonds, sapphires, emeralds - Rare earth elements
Determining locatability: The BLM notes that it is difficult to compile a definitive list because qualification as a locatable mineral requires meeting complex legal requirements for discovery. A mineral deposit must be valuable—meaning a person of ordinary prudence would be justified in further expenditure of labor and means with a reasonable prospect of success.
Related Terms
Mining Claim
A parcel of land for which a claimant has asserted a right of possession and the right to develop and extract mineral resources.
Mining Law of 1872
The foundational federal law governing the location and patenting of mining claims for hard rock minerals on public lands.
Discovery
The finding of a valuable mineral deposit within the boundaries of a mining claim, required to establish a valid claim.