How is copper found? Exploring the discovery process

Copper is one of the most vital elements powering our modern world. From electric vehicles to renewable energy infrastructure, this endlessly recyclable metal is at the heart of progress. But have you ever wondered how copper is found in the first place?

The journey from discovery to extraction is one of skill, precision, and science – and here at Coda Minerals, we pride ourselves on doing it the right way.

We’ll explore the copper discovery process, from identifying copper ores to the methods geologists use to confirm the presence of this red metal underground.

We’ll also take a closer look at how Coda Minerals applies these principles at our own project sites, including Elizabeth Creek, a project that represents a new era of sustainable exploration.

What are copper ores?

Copper doesn’t just appear as shiny nuggets waiting to be picked up. Instead, it’s usually found as part of copper ores, which are naturally occurring rock formations containing a mixture of copper and other minerals.

To extract the copper, these ores must first be discovered and then processed.

Some of the most common types of copper ores include:

• Chalcopyrite: The most abundant copper ore, containing around 35% copper. It’s a bright yellow mineral often mistaken for gold. This is the most common ore found in Australia, mainly in South Australia and Queensland.
• Bornite: Known as ‘peacock ore’ for its colourful tarnish, it typically contains up to 63% copper. While less abundant than chalcopyrite, it is also found in several Australian copper deposits, often alongside chalcopyrite. It can be identified in mines such as those in the Mount Isa region in Queensland and occasionally in South Australia’s copper provinces.
• Malachite and Azurite: Beautiful green and blue ores that are lower in copper content but visually striking. These secondary copper ores are commonly found in the oxidised zones of Australian copper deposits. Prominent locations include the Broken Hill region of New South Wales and parts of South Australia and Western Australia.
• Chalcocite: One of the richest copper ores, with up to 80% copper content. Chalcocite is less common but still present in certain Australian copper deposits, especially in high-grade supergene enrichment zones (where minerals are concentrated near the surface due to weathering). Examples include deposits in the Mount Isa region and Cobar, New South Wales.

While these ores vary in appearance and composition, they all hold the key ingredient: copper in a mineral form that can be mined and processed. The challenge lies in finding them.

How do geologists identify copper deposits?

Identifying copper ores involves a blend of cutting-edge technology and time-honoured geological techniques. Here’s how it typically unfolds:

1. Desktop research and historical data

Before boots hit the ground, the first step is often a deep dive into existing geological maps and historical mining records. These resources help geologists pinpoint areas that have previously yielded copper or have the right geological conditions for it to form.

2. Geophysical surveys

Advanced geophysical techniques, such as magnetic and electromagnetic surveys, are used to detect anomalies in the Earth’s crust. Copper ores often have distinctive physical or magnetic properties, and these surveys help map potential deposit locations.

3. Geochemical sampling

Soil, water, and rock samples from the area are collected and tested for copper traces. If the concentration of copper in these samples is higher than the surrounding baseline levels, it could signal the presence of an underlying ore body.

4. Mapping and trenching

Geologists conduct detailed surface mapping and, in some cases, dig shallow trenches to examine the rock layers beneath. This helps identify visible signs of mineralisation and narrow down potential drilling sites.

5. Drilling and core sampling

Once a promising location is identified, drilling begins. Core samples are extracted to determine the type, grade, and depth of the copper ore. The results from these samples guide decisions about whether the deposit is viable to mine.

The Elizabeth Creek advantage

One of our flagship projects, Elizabeth Creek, is located in South Australia, a region known for its copper-rich geology and progressive renewable energy grid. With the highest percentage of renewable energy in its grid, South Australia offers a unique opportunity to produce copper in a way that aligns with our sustainability ethos.

Elizabeth Creek’s strategic location in the Olympic Dam Copper Province, a globally significant copper belt, gives us access to some of the most promising deposits in the country. Our team uses state-of-the-art geophysical surveys and geochemical sampling to identify potential ore bodies, backed by rigorous analysis and community engagement.

What sets us apart is our commitment to doing things differently:

• Collaboration with local stakeholders: We work hand-in-hand with the local community to ensure our projects deliver long-term benefits.
• Transparency and ethics: From discovery to extraction, we’re committed to maintaining the highest ethical standards.
• Focus on the future: We understand that copper is more than just a commodity – it’s a cornerstone of a sustainable future.

But why does copper discovery matter so much?

As the world transitions to cleaner energy systems, the demand for copper is skyrocketing. This versatile metal is a cornerstone of renewable energy infrastructure, from wind turbines and solar panels to electric vehicles and energy-efficient buildings.

According to the ABS Quarterly Statistics report on Mineral and Petroleum Exploration in Australia, copper exploration expenditure increased by 4%, rising from $550 million in 2021 to $573 million in 2022. This upward trend has continued into 2024, reflecting the growing demand for copper and the industry’s increased investment in its exploration.

However, meeting this growing demand sustainably is a complex challenge that the mining industry must rise to meet.

Balancing the need for increased copper production with responsible environmental and social practices requires innovation, transparency, and a commitment to minimising impact.

The industry must adopt cleaner technologies, reduce emissions, and ensure ethical sourcing to support the global shift to a low-carbon future without compromising the planet’s ecosystems or local communities.

At Coda Minerals, we’re dedicated to being part of the solution, driving sustainability at every step of our exploration and development process.

Copper discovery: Coda’s sustainable approach

Copper’s role in the circular economy cannot be overstated. Unlike many materials, copper can be recycled endlessly without losing its essential properties. This durability makes it a vital resource for renewable technologies, from wind turbines to electric vehicles.

At Coda Minerals, we’re not just exploring copper – we’re exploring better ways to mine and process it.

We understand the responsibility of operating in remote and sensitive environments, ensuring our activities respect and care for the land that provides these opportunities. Sustainable practices are essential, focusing on protecting biodiversity, natural ecosystems, and reducing our carbon footprint.

By leveraging South Australia’s renewable energy potential and embracing innovative exploration methods, we aim to set a new standard for responsible copper production.

We are committed to improving resource efficiency and cutting emissions through innovative energy and process technologies.

Every stage of copper exploration and mine development prioritises minimising environmental impact and achieving sustainable outcomes.

For us, compliance with environmental laws is a baseline—we strive to set new benchmarks for best practices in sustainability.

Copper discovery done right

So, how is copper found? It’s a process that combines science, technology, and a little bit of intuition and luck, from identifying the right ores to conducting meticulous surveys and sampling. But at Coda Minerals, it’s about more than just discovery – it’s about doing it right.

With our projects like Elizabeth Creek, we’re showing the world that copper discovery and sustainability can go hand in hand. As we look to the future, we’re excited to continue exploring, innovating, and playing our part in powering a greener tomorrow.

Want to learn more about our approach to copper exploration? Check out our Elizabeth Creek Project and see how we’re shaping the future of ethical copper production.