MAP I-721
Miscellaneous Geologic Investigations Map
U.S. Geological Survey

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Metallogenic Map of Puerto Rico

Authors: Dennis P. Cox and Reginald P. Briggs

INTRODUCTION

The purpose of a metallogenic map is to show the distribution of mineral deposits in relation to geologic factors, particularly those factors that have had an important influence on the formation of the deposits. Other types of mineral resource maps aid the mineral economist by showing graphically the relationship between important mineral deposits and population centers and transportation routes . (For a description o f Puerto Rico's mineral resources with more emphasis on mineral economics see Briggs, 1969a) . The metallogenic map on the other hand is of principal benefit to the prospector and economic geologist because it outlines target areas where certain types of deposits may he found . Consequently, metallogenic maps, especially large-scale ones such as this, may show mineral occurrences which in themselves are far too small to have economic significance . Taken together however, such occurrences may delineate trends which guide the geologist in the search for concealed deposits of greater value. This map, then, is not meant to illustrate the present mineral wealth of Puerto Rico, but rather is intended as a prospecting tool. It should also be emphasized that maps of this type can never he considered final. With new mineral discoveries, with new demands for minerals not now considered valuable, and (or) with increased geologic knowledge, new trends develop and new target areas for exploration may be revealed.

The citation for this map, in USGS format, is as follows:

Cox, D.P., and Briggs, R.P., 1973, Metallogenic Map of Puerto Rico: U.S. Geological Survey Miscellaneous Geologic Investigations Map, 1 p.