Electrolysis - An electric current is passed through a solution containing dissolved metals, causing the metals to be deposited onto a cathode.

Electrolytic refining - The process of purifying metal ingots that are suspended as anodes in an electrolytic bath, alternated with refined sheets of the same metal which act as starters or cathodes.

EM survey - A geophysical survey method which measures the electromagnetic properties of rocks.

En echelon - Roughly parallel but staggered structures.

Environmental impact study - A written report, compiled prior to a production decision, that examines the effects proposed mining activities will have on the natural surroundings.

Epigenetic - Orebodies formed by hydrothermal fluids and gases that were introduced into the host rocks from elsewhere, filling cavities in the host rock.

Epithermal deposit - A mineral deposit consisting of veins and replacement bodies, usually in volcanic or sedimentary rocks, containing precious metals or, more rarely, base metals.

Equity financing - The provision of funds by buying shares.

Era - A large division of geologic time - the Precambrian era, for example.

Erosion - The breaking down and subsequent removal of either rock or surface material by wind, rain, wave action, freezing and thawing and other

Erratic - Either a piece of visible gold or a large glacial boulder.

Escrowed shares - Shares deposited in trust pending fulfillment of certain conditions, and not ordinarily available to trading until released.

Ex-dividend - On stocks selling “ex-dividend”, the seller retains the right to a pending dividend payment.

Exploration - Prospecting, sampling, mapping, diamond drilling and other work involved in searching for ore.