Graduate student Shari Houston from New Mexico Tech told the SME Arizona Conference yesterday in Tucson that her research found evidence for supergene processes in the Resolution copper deposit near Superior [right, #9 and #10 shafts, East Plant. Photo credit Resolution Copper] but no evidence of supergene enrichment actually occurring. If no enrichment is found there, it could mean there is one or more lateral or distal supergene deposits that are yet undiscovered.
Shari's concluded that the Resolution ore body has a leached capping zone but it is hematite-goethite rich, suggesting the former presence of chalcocite as an early supergene enrichment mineral.
Her work is a wonderful example of geo-detective work. Given the size of the Resolution body, this news will get the attention of the exploration community.