Metalliferous describes rocks, veins, or deposits that yield metals such as gold, copper, iron, or lead. The term formally distinguishes hard-rock metal mining from coal mining, industrial minerals, or aggregate quarrying. Metalliferous deposits typically require complex beneficiation and smelting processes to separate the target metal from the host rock and gangue minerals.
Heard on the job
The new regulations apply specifically to metalliferous underground mines, not to the local salt and potash operations.