Inventories (Components Of Inventories) (Details) (USD $) In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Jun. 30, 2012	Dec. 31, 2011
Metals inventory
Raw ore	$ 1,820	$ 1,179
Concentrate and in-process	46,901	43,379
Finished goods	49,918	66,194
Metals inventory	98,639	110,752
Materials and supplies	22,939	21,104
Total inventory	$ 121,578	$ 131,856

Carrying amount as of the balance sheet date of merchandise or goods held by the company that are readily available for sale.

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- Definition

Gross amount, as of the balance sheet date, of merchandise, goods, commodities, or supplies held for future sale or to be used in manufacturing, servicing or production process.

+ References

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- Definition

Carrying amount (lower of cost or market) as of the balance sheet date of inventories less all valuation and other allowances. Excludes noncurrent inventory balances (expected to remain on hand past one year or one operating cycle, if longer).

+ References

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-Topic 330

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- Definition

The carrying amount of ore stockpile material contained on a leach pad, such as copper or gold ore.

+ References

No definition available.

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- Definition

Carrying amount as of the balance sheet date of merchandise or goods which are partially completed, are generally comprised of raw materials, labor and factory overhead costs, and which require further materials, labor and overhead to be converted into finished goods, and which generally require the use of estimates to determine percentage complete and pricing.

+ References

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-Publisher SEC

-Name Regulation S-X (SX)

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- Definition

Carrying amount as of the balance sheet date of products used directly or indirectly in the manufacturing or production process, which may or may not become part of the final product. May also include items used in the storage, presentation or transportation of physical goods.

+ References

Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef

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-Publisher AICPA

-Name Accounting Research Bulletin (ARB)

-Number 43

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-Section A

-Paragraph 9

-LegacyDoc This reference is SUPERSEDED by the Accounting Standards Codification effective for interim and annual periods ending after September 15, 2009. This reference is included to help users transition from the previous accounting hierarchy and will be removed from future versions of this taxonomy.

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