About Copper

In its natural state, mineral compounds, such as copper, are found surrounded by rock.  Combined, this group of materials is called ‘ore’, and typically, ore contains only 0.5% to 2.0% copper. At CSA Mine the ore grade averages over 6% and with some as high as 12%, making it one of the richest copper ore deposits in the world.

The most common copper minerals are Chalcopyrite, Bornite and Malachite.  The copper mineral mined at CSA Mine is Chalcopyrite, which has a golden yellow appearance. As a processed metal, copper is red, with a bright metallic lustre.

Copper is used across the world in computers, electronic goods such as radios and TVs as well as air conditioners, electrical generators and wiring. We also rely on copper’s malleable, ductile properties for power, water supply and transport.

Copper is often referred to as the metal of sustainable development because it can be recycled as often as required without loss of quality. Copper recycling protects natural resources and valuable energy.

The use of copper is not a recent discovery. There is evidence that copper was first used by man 10,000 years ago for both decorative and practical purposes such as tools and weapons. Smelting of simple copper ore can be traced back to 5000 BC.