These days gold is influencing more than fashion and jewelry. Technology advancements, modern infrastructure, and even medical treatments are utilizing this irreplaceable metal. Coeur Mining is contributing to these advances through gold production at four of their five operations.
2017 proved to be record production year for Coeur Mining, by producing over 383,000 ounces of gold between their four gold-bearing mine sites. Those four gold-bearing sites include the Rochester mine in Nevada (51,051 ounces), the Kensington mine in Alaska (115,094 ounces), the Wharf mine in South Dakota (95,372 ounces), and the Palmarejo mine in Mexico (121,569 ounces).
Gold is soft, ductile and is the most malleable of metals. It is usually found in alloys that improve strength and durability of key metals. In addition, it is a good conductor of heat and electricity – making it essential to many components of modern infrastructure.
Gold is a highly efficient conductor that can carry low-voltage currents and remain free of corrosion. Electronic components made with gold are highly reliable, which is why it can be found in computers, cellphones, connectors, switch and relay contacts, soldered joints, connecting wires, and connection strips.
It is also used in making specialty glass for climate-controlled buildings. A small amount of gold dispersed within the glass or coated onto the glass surface reflects solar radiation outward, helping buildings stay cool in the summer, and reflects internal heat inward, helping them stay warm in winter.
In addition, most every space vehicle is fitted with gold-coated polyester film. This film reflects infrared radiation and helps stabilize the temperature of the spacecraft. Without gold, important aerospace and satellite components would not be possible.
Gold is used in many modern technological advances, but one of the most impressive, is how gold is now being used in the treatment of cancer. Researchers at the University of Queensland are using gold particles as a form of modern nanotechnology to help monitor the diversity of individual cancer cells circulating in a patient’s body. This technology will help track critical changes in tumor cells before, during and after treatment.
As the uses of gold continue to grow far outside the jewelry sector, Coeur Mining will be there to provide the essential metal that is shaping the future of America’s infrastructure.