Consolidated Balance Sheets (USD $) In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2011	Dec. 31, 2010
ASSETS
Cash and cash equivalents	$ 15,554	$ 32,383
Restricted cash	98
Prepaid expenses	577	538
Other	273	101
Total current assets	16,502	33,022
Property, plant and equipment, net [note 5]	3,102	3,830
Deposits	256	90
Total assets	19,860	36,942
LIABILITIES
Accrued liabilities and other payables	1,394	3,644
Total current liabilities	1,394	3,644
Other liabilities	497	547
Related party payable [note 13 (c)]	357	348
Share-based payment liability [note 7]		129
Total liabilities	2,248	4,668
Commitments and contingencies [note 14]
EQUITY
Common stock, par value of $0.0001, 200 million shares authorized and 106.4 million and 104.3 million shares issued and outstanding in 2011 and 2010, respectively	11	10
Additional paid-in capital	110,430	109,564
Deficit accumulated during the exploration stage	(102,775)	(87,957)
Total controlling stockholders' equity	7,666	21,617
Noncontrolling interest [note 10]	9,946	10,657
Total equity	17,612	32,274
Total liabilities and equity	$ 19,860	$ 36,942