Mercury gold panning extraction, 1940 C016 / 4591
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Mercury gold panning extraction, 1940 C016 / 4591
Mercury gold panning extraction. Close-up of a gold prospector pouring mercury from a small tube into a pan which contains flour gold mixed with water and soil. Panning involves swirling gravel from a stream or river in water in a shallow dish. The lighter stones and rocks will be lost, while the heavier metal ores, such as gold and silver, will be left behind. With fine rock fragments, as with this flour gold, chemical extraction is needed. Photographed by Russell Lee (1903-1986) in May to June 1940, in Pinos Altos, New Mexico, USA
Science Photo Library features Science and Medical images including photos and illustrations
Media ID 9205119
© LIBRARY OF CONGRESS/SCIENCE PHOTO LIBRARY
1940 1940s Dirt Dish Extracting Extraction Farm Security Administration Gold June Mercury Miner Mineral Mining New Mexico North American Precious Metal Prospecting Reacting Reaction Soil Gold Mine Panning Prospector Russell Lee
EDITORS COMMENTS
This photo print, titled "Mercury gold panning extraction, 1940" takes us back to a significant moment in American history. The image showcases a close-up of a determined gold prospector pouring mercury from a small tube into a pan filled with water, soil, and flour gold. Taken by the talented photographer Russell Lee in May to June 1940, this snapshot captures the essence of the mining industry during that era. Located in Pinos Altos, New Mexico, USA, this scene depicts an essential technique called panning. By swirling gravel from streams or rivers in shallow dishes filled with water, miners were able to separate valuable metals like gold and silver from lighter stones and rocks. However, when dealing with fine rock fragments like flour gold seen here, chemical extraction became necessary. The photograph beautifully portrays the dedication of this caucasian male prospector as he skillfully carries out his work amidst nature's raw beauty. It serves as a reminder of the human determination behind industrial progress during that time period. Preserved by the Library of Congress/Science Photo Library for historical documentation purposes only (not for commercial use), this monochrome image transports us back to an era where precious metals were sought after relentlessly across North America. A testament to both our fascination with minerals and our relentless pursuit of wealth through mining endeavors.
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