Probable Reserve

The economically mineable part of an indicated resource — and usually the larger share of any reserve statement.

Definition

The economically mineable portion of an indicated and, in some cases, a measured mineral resource. Probable reserves have a lower level of confidence than proven reserves but are still suitable for mine planning purposes.

Why it matters

Most reserves at most mines are probable rather than proven. That is normal, not a warning sign; requiring measured confidence across an entire deposit would rarely be worth the drilling cost.

See also

  • Proven Reserve The economically mineable portion of a measured mineral resource, representing the highest level of confidence
  • Mineral Reserve The economically mineable portion of a measured or indicated mineral resource, demonstrated by at least a prel
  • Indicated Resource A mineral resource for which quantity, grade, densities, shape, and physical characteristics are estimated wit

More resource reporting terms