Mining & Processing

How Silver Is Mined and Processed

Silver (Ag) is a precious metal with global annual production of approximately 26,000 tonnes, primarily from Mexico and China. Typical ore grades range from 100-500 g/t (primary); byproduct varies.

Mining Methods

Silver is extracted through the following methods, selected based on deposit type and geology:

• Byproduct of copper, lead, zinc, and gold mining
• Primary silver mining

Ore Types and Mineralogy

The principal ore types and mineral sources for Silver include:

• Argentite - Ag2S
• Native silver
• Silver-bearing galena and chalcopyrite

Processing and Beneficiation

Following extraction, Silver ore undergoes the following processing stages:

1. Parkes process (from lead)
2. Merrill-Crowe process
3. Electrolytic refining
4. Dore refining

Environmental and Regulatory Considerations

Mining and processing of Silver must comply with environmental regulations governing water use, tailings management, emissions, and land rehabilitation. Increasingly stringent environmental standards are raising production costs but also driving innovation in cleaner extraction technologies. The social license to operate and community engagement have become critical factors in project development, particularly in Mexico where 23% of global production is concentrated.