Does exploration always lead to mining?

A decision to mine is usually dependent on the discovery of a mineral deposit of a size and concentration which is commercially viable. Useful information is gained over the full extent of a licence leading to more intensive exploration activities in smaller areas of high prospectivity within the larger area. While exploration may take place over large areas of land the areas subsequently mined, if any, are small. Only a very small percentage of exploration prospects evolve into mining projects.