A rapid, inexpensive multi-phase prospecting technique to identify new mineral and petroleum deposits has been developed. The predictive method utilizes diverse data inputs which are evaluated and ranked by a numerical scoring system, called the "mineralization potential score." Factors considered have different significance to mineral exploration and are weighted in proportion to that significance. The end result is a gridded map that serves as the basis for future prospecting.

The method was tested in Baja California. Four areas that showed clusters of high scores were sampled and tested. Two of the areas contain commercial ore deposits, and all four areas showed structural disturbance. The consistent structural disturbance at predicted sites, and the common occurrence of high levels of metals are certainly more than random encounters. Although the model has not been fully tested, as more data are added and more experience becomes available, the weighting factors and data classes may be changed in order to refine the predictive model.