Placer mining is a method of extracting valuable minerals from alluvial deposits, which are loose materials like sand and gravel found in riverbeds or along shorelines. This technique often targets precious metals, such as gold and silver, that have eroded from their original rock formations and settled in these deposits over time. The process typically involves using simple tools like pans, sluices, or dredges to separate the minerals from the surrounding material. Placer mining is often more accessible and less expensive than other mining methods, making it popular among small-scale miners and hobbyists seeking to find gemstones or nuggets.