Volcanogenic Massive Sulfide (VMS) deposits are significant sources of base and precious metals, contributing notably to global metal production. The infographic highlights that VMS deposits are particularly rich in base metals like zinc, copper, and lead, with zinc accounting for 22% of the world's production from these deposits. Interestingly, while copper is a well-known metal, its contribution from VMS deposits is relatively modest at 6%. Lead, another base metal, contributes 9.7%, showcasing the diversity in metal production from these geological formations. On the precious metals front, silver and gold are also extracted from VMS deposits, albeit in smaller quantities. Silver accounts for 8.7% of the world's production from VMS sources, while gold contributes 2.2%. This distribution underscores the dual nature of VMS deposits, serving as a critical source for both industrial and precious metals. The infographic also notes the vast number of VMS deposits globally, with over 900 identified, some dating back as far as 3.4 billion years. This historical depth, combined with ongoing formation, highlights the enduring and evolving nature of these deposits. The data provides a fascinating insight into the geological and economic significance of VMS deposits, emphasizing their role in the global metal supply chain.
