Nevada mines produced 7.7 million oz. gold in 2002, down about 5% from 2001, according to company reports compiled by the Nevada Division of Minerals.
Nevada remains the top gold-producing state, while the U.S. is the world’s third-largest gold-producing country, behind South Africa and Australia.
The value of 2002 gold production is estimated at US$2.4 billion, up from US$2.2 billion in 2001. The increase reflects a rise in the gold price to an average of US$310 per oz. in 2002, up from US$271 in 2001.
Nevada also led the nation in silver production in 2002, at 13.557 million oz., down 22% from 2001. Based on an average silver price in 2002 of US$4.60 per oz., the value of Nevada’s silver production dipped to US$62 million, down from US$76 million in 2001.
“Although precious metal production declined in 2002, Nevada’s mining companies continue to make a substantial contribution to the state’s economy,” says Alan Coyner, administrator of the Nevada Division of Minerals. “Exploration activity increased significantly in 2002, which should lead to additional discoveries and production.”
Industrial mineral production remained relatively steady in 2002, and the total value of production was about US$300 million. Nevada produces such industrial minerals as aggregates, barite, clays, diatomite, dolomite, gypsum, lime and limestone, lithium, magnesium, opals, salt, and silica sand.
— The preceding is from an information bulletin published by the Nevada Division of Minerals, based in Carson City.
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