en.Wedoany.com Reported - The Antamina mine, located in the Ancash region of Peru, was recognized as the largest skarn deposit in the world during the proEXPLO 2026 conference held in Lima. The mine has drawn attention for its high degree of mineralization, complex geological conditions, and growth potential. Professor Zhaoshang Chang of the Colorado School of Mines pointed out at the conference that Antamina still holds high expansion potential, with the possibility of adding up to 500 million tonnes of additional resources.
According to experts, Antamina's expansion potential is linked to recent drilling projects that have discovered unaltered limestone zones, providing opportunities for mineralization generated by new intrusions. Chang explained that Antamina hosts more than 11 intrusions distributed across three main centers, a configuration that favors the formation of extensive and continuous mineralization zones, distinguishing this skarn deposit from others worldwide.
In his comparison, Chang contrasted Antamina with the Ferrobamba area, the main zone of Las Bambas located in Apurímac. Ferrobamba's intrusive centers are more dispersed, limiting mineralization continuity and necessitating mining via individual pits. He also presented international case studies such as Ertsberg and Big Gossan in Indonesia, deposits known for their multiple intrusive centers and complex geometries. However, Chang emphasized that Antamina's configuration stands out for generating continuous, large-volume mineralization.
Regarding future growth, Chang believes the key lies in precisely identifying the intrusions responsible for mineralization through field observations, mineralogical analysis, and advanced laboratory techniques. This approach will contribute to a better understanding of the geological system and guide exploration activities toward areas with a higher likelihood of success, further consolidating Antamina's status as a major skarn deposit.
This article is compiled by Wedoany. All AI citations must indicate the source as "Wedoany". If there is any infringement or other issues, please notify us promptly, and we will modify or delete it accordingly. Email: news@wedoany.com
