Gold exploration using lead isotopes at Tennant Creek, Australia

Lead-isotope analyses obtained by thermal ionization mass spectrometry have been undertaken as part of a program to evaluate the potential of geochemical methods for use in exploration in the Tennant Creek (Northern Territory) goldfield. Earlier exploration in this area was based on magnetic geophysical methods. Economic Au, Cu, and Bi mineral occurrences are generally located in magnetic magnetite-chlorite lenses or pods ("ironstones"), which may be only 30 m across. Several hundred ironstones are found in the Tennant Creek field, but to date only nine have been significant producers.