Ann: Cooletha Exploration Update, page-113

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The relevance of crystal size in orthoclase quartz-pegmatites in assessing lithium potential lies in its association with the concentration of lithium minerals within the pegmatite. Lithium is primarily found in pegmatites in the form of lithium-bearing minerals such as spodumene, lepidolite, and petalite. These minerals often occur as large crystals or masses within the pegmatite, and their size can be indicative of the lithium content.

Some key points to consider regarding the relevance of crystal size in assessing lithium potential in orthoclase quartz-pegmatites:

1. Lithium Concentration: Larger crystals in pegmatites can potentially contain higher concentrations of lithium-bearing minerals. Larger crystals may provide a visual clue to the presence of these valuable minerals.Mining Considerations:
2. The size of the lithium-bearing crystals can have implications for mining and processing. Larger crystals are generally easier to extract and process than smaller ones, which can be beneficial for economic viability.
3. Exploration Indicators: While the size of crystals can be an excellent indicator, it is not the sole determining factor for assessing lithium potential. Other factors, such as mineralogical composition, lithium grade, and the presence of other associated minerals, also play a crucial role in evaluating the economic potential of a pegmatite deposit.
4. Lithium Grade: The lithium concentration within the crystals is more important than their size alone. A 30 cm crystal may be an excellent indicator if it contains a high grade of lithium-bearing minerals
5. Local Geology: Geological context matters. The presence of 30 cm crystals in a geological setting known for lithium deposits may be more significant than the same size crystals found in an area with no history of lithium mining.
6. Sampling and Analysis: Detailed sampling and analysis of the pegmatite are necessary to determine the lithium content accurately. This involves testing multiple samples from various locations within the pegmatite to assess its overall potential.
7. Economic Viability: Ultimately, what matters most is whether the lithium potential of the pegmatite, as determined by factors like crystal size and lithium grade, makes it economically viable to mine and process the lithium-bearing minerals. Remember, larger crystals are a good indicator of easier extraction and therefore more profitabillity if a mine is established.

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