The mineralisation at Barberton Mines is classified as Achaean epigenetic hydrothermal lode gold deposits within a granite greenstone terrain. The distribution and localisation of these orebodies in the Barberton Greenstone Belt can be largely attributed to the combined influence of thermal metamorphism and structural deformation.

The Barberton ores are mineralised shears with gold occluded in sulphide minerals. The sulphides often occur as massive assemblages in the shear structure. Lower-grade ore, in the wall rock, form as a result of the alteration process during fluid flow and is associated with disseminated sulphide minerals. A late stage of gold mineralisation occurred in brittle fractures with the formation of quartz veins. These quartz veins often contain free gold in visible clusters.

The mining methods used at Barberton Mines’ underground operations are semi-mechanised up-dip cut and fill and up-dip room and stick. An estimated 16% to 18% of gold is recovered by sweeping and vamping contractors focusing on worked-out areas and mining high-grade pillars.

Fairview Mine produces approximately 45% of the combined gold, Sheba Mine and New Consort Mine produce 25% and 10%, respectively, and the BTRP contributes 19% of Barberton Mines’ gold production.

Gold is extracted using the BIOX® gold extraction process, an environmentally friendly process which uses bacteria to release gold from the sulphide ore.

The BTRP has been designed to treat tailings through a Carbon in Leach circuit using electro-winning and smelting to produce a saleable product.