The news that gold was found in Hanover triggered a gold rush to the parish. But high hopes of becoming rich would soon turn to disappointment. Treasure seekers would quickly discover that the substance found was pyrite, which has little economic value. So the gold rush to Hanover ended like in the movies.
But what if the substance was gold? Who does it belong to? First of all, Jamaica has no goal. Also, Jamaica’s geological location makes it almost impossible for the Island to have gold deposits. There is some copper in certain regions, but most of it was mined many years ago. The Geology and Geography of a country help to determine whether the Government has gold. Also, all land belongs to the State. So, whatever natural resource or treasure is found on the earth belongs to the State. Those who own land would have noticed that your title designates you as a ‘Holder.’
The Mines and Geology Division of the Government has stated that the Minerals (Vesting) Act 1947 gives the State the right to all minerals found on the earth on the Island.
This Act declares all minerals or metals (defined in this Act) being in, on, or under any land or water, whether territorial waters or river. Or inland sea, to be vested in and subject to the control of the Crown. The Act also requires anyone to mine any minerals only per the legislation governing mines and mining. It provides that royalties shall be paid to Government. The Act sets out rules relative to the payment of royalties and grants regulation-making powers to the Minister.
The Act covers all substances, including metals, gold, and silver, or minerals containing copper, lead, and iron; precious stones.
And carbonaceous minerals, such as coal, and some industrial minerals, such as marble, high-purity limestone, and silica sand.
Therefore citizens are encouraged to report such discoveries to the Mines and Geology Division.