Epithermal_vein_deposit
Epithermal vein deposit
Mineral deposit that forms in the shallow subsurface
The epithermal vein deposit (EVP) is a type of mineral deposit that forms in the shallow subsurface, typically at depths of less than 1,500 meters below the Earth's surface.[1] These deposits are formed by hot, mineral-rich fluids that circulate through fractures and cracks in rocks. As the fluids cool, they deposit minerals, such as gold, silver, copper, lead, and zinc, into the veins.[2] EVP are typically small in size, but they can be very high-grade, meaning that they contain a high concentration of valuable minerals.[3]
This makes them attractive targets for mining, despite the challenges of their small size and depth.