Classification and Occurrence of the Copper Ores of the World

Abstract

From the mineral paragenetical standpoint, the copper ores of the world are classified into the following types :
(1) Chalcopyrite-pyrite ores.
(2) Cupriferous iron sulphide ores.
(3) Copper-zinc-lead-bearing iron sulphide ores.
(4) Nickel-bearing pyrrhotite ores.
(5) Disseminated copper ores (porphyry copper ores).
(6) Arsenic-bearing ores.
(7) Tin-tungsten-copper-lead-zinc-bearing polymetallic ores (xenothermal type).
(8) Cobalt-bearing ores.
(9) "Kupferschiefer" ores.
(11) Native copper ores.
(11) Supergene (secondary) copper ores.
Characteristic features of each ore type are briefly described. Mutual relationships of their occurrences are explained.