Skip to main content
← DISPATCHES
[WORLD]

Briefing: Ancient brines helped build Idaho's Silver Valley and Cobalt belt

Strategic angle: A new study reveals the geological history behind Idaho's Silver Valley, known for its massive silver production.

Editorial Staff · 2026-03-19 · 1 MIN READ

Idaho's Silver Valley has produced approximately 1.2 billion ounces of silver since the late 1800s.

The silver output is equivalent to a solid cube as tall as a five-story building.

The region has also yielded significant amounts of lead and zinc.