Should we insist on a mining project simply because artisanal miners find ore there? Content: It's common to see some project managers become enthusiastic as soon as an area shows intense artisanal activity. However, it's important to remember that a mining project cannot be justified solely by the presence of artisanally extracted minerals. ➡️Artisanal mining does not guarantee: - Continuity of the deposit - Average mineable grade - Total available volume - Technical or economic profitability on a large scale A mining project is a significant investment that requires structured studies: ✔️Mapping and geochemistry ✔️Drilling and 3D modeling ✔️Resource estimation ✔️Metallurgical studies ✔️Economic and environmental studies 👉 The ore visible or recovered at the surface may come from secondary structures, temporary geological traps, or old tailings. Conclusion: Do not confuse artisanal activity with a profitable deposit. The only reliable path is through rigorous characterization of the deposit, supported by verifiable technical data. Intuition alone doesn't build a viable mining project.