The Barb showing is largely underlain by volcaniclastic and sedimentary rock of the Middle Jurassic Smithers Formation, Hazelton Group. Quartz dioritic stocks, dikes and plugs of the Late Cretaceous Bulkley Plutonic Suite and Eocene felsitic intrusive rocks intrude the strata.
In a prominent 030 degree trending shear zone in the south-central part of the claims, a series 5 quartz, quartz-ankerite, quartz-calcite and calcite veins are intermittently exposed. In area Number 4, quartz-ankerite veins form a branching system of lenses with combined widths to 1.5 metres. Disseminated chalcopyrite and pale yellow sphalerite with minor pyrite is commonly present. Grabs gave a single gold value of 0.25 gram per tonne and a proximal float sample, likely from this system, gave a significant silver value of 94.2 grams per tonne (Assessment Report 13043).
The northeastern extension of this fault zone (number 5) contained disseminated galena, sphalerite, chalcopyrite and pyrite with no obvious significant gold/silver values. In this location, samples were obtained peripheral to the shear zone and are probably replacements in argillic altered lapilli tuff.
WORK HISTORY
The property was staked in late August, 1982, by Nigel Cawthorn of Union Carbide Canada Ltd, based upon the discovery of anomalous precious metal occurrences both on the property and on boundaries of adjacent, pre-existing claims. These showings were discovered by Mr. P. Suratt and Mr. T Bell, prospecting under the direction of Tom Richards. Union Carbide Ltd., optioned these, and other adjacent claims, to Amax Canada Ltd. in late 1982 and subsequently to Canamax Ltd. in 1983. No work was done on these claims and cash was paid in-lieu for 1983. In the summer of 1984, the claims were transferred to Tom Richards.
Work was done on the property in late September 1984, by Tom Richards (geologist) and B. Holden (prospector). All work comprised basic reconnaissance geology, prospecting, rock and silt sampling. Some 36 rock and 19 silt samples were sent in for geochemical analysis. Seven showings were found and or sampled in 1984 and designated Number 1 to Numbers 7.
