Spectral indices for

Mineral Exploration

Identify mineral deposits, map hydrothermal alteration zones, and discriminate lithological units in arid and bare-ground regions. Geological indices target diagnostic absorption features in the shortwave infrared spectrum where different minerals produce unique signatures from electronic transitions and vibrational overtones.

Recommended indices (6)

These indices are most commonly used for mineral exploration. Click any index to see the full formula, sensor-specific implementations, and code samples.

1
FOX Geology
Ferric Oxides Index

Geological index for detecting ferric oxide concentrations in rocks and soils. Useful for identifying iron-rich minerals and oxide formations in geological mapping and mineral exploration.

NIR / Red
2
AKP Geology
Alunite/Kaolinite/Pyrophylite Index

Geological index designed to identify alunite, kaolinite, and pyrophylite minerals. These clay minerals are indicators of hydrothermal alteration and are valuable for mineral exploration and geological mapping.

(SWIR1 + SWIR3) / SWIR2
3
ALT Geology
Alteration Index

Geological index used to identify areas of hydrothermal alteration and mineral deposits. The ratio highlights areas where clay minerals and hydroxyl-bearing minerals are present, indicating potential alteration zones.

SWIR3 / SWIR5
4
FEI Geology
Ferrous Iron Index

Geological index for detecting ferrous iron (Fe2+) concentrations in rocks and soils. Combines SWIR and visible-NIR ratios to identify iron-bearing minerals and geological formations.

(SWIR5 / Red + NIR1 / Green)
5
GOS Geology
Gossan Index

Geological index for detecting gossan formations - weathered, oxidized iron-bearing rocks that form at the surface above sulfide mineral deposits. Essential for mineral exploration and identifying potential ore deposits.

SWIR4 / Red
6
AMP Geology
Amphibole Index

Geological index for detecting amphibole minerals in rocks. Amphiboles are important rock-forming minerals that provide insights into geological processes and mineral composition.

SWIR1 / SWIR2

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