Preliminary report on the occurrence of Tertiary gold-bearing gravels in Surinam

Abstract

As a result of the recently commenced exploration programme of the Geological and Mining Service of Surinam, gold was discovered in gravels of the Tertiary Coesewijne Formation near Jorka Kreek and Loksie Hatti. These gravels form the base of isolated plateaus along the southern margin of the Coesewijne Formation in the vicinity of major rivers. The gravels were deposited in braided river and alluvial fan systems under semi-arid conditions. It is assumed that at Jorka Kreek both gold and rounded clasts were derived from the Precambrian Rosebel Formation, whereas at Loksie Hatti the gold is derived from local quartz veins. Further evaluation of these placers, now in progress, should reveal whether or not they are economically exploitable.