Ma Wenpo, head of the land and resources survey branch of the Liaoning Provincial Institute of Geological Exploration, told cnr.cn that while field horsetails grow well in heavy metal-rich soil, their presence alone does not guarantee a gold deposit.

According to him, a preliminary exploration at the slope has revealed an alteration zone measuring between 1.5 and 2 meters wide and roughly 100 meters long. Samples have been collected for analysis to determine whether further exploration is warranted.

On site, Ma gave Sun a geology lesson and encouraged him to continue pursuing his love for nature and science. When the boy asked him whether there really is gold, Ma replied: "Whether there is gold or not, your curiosity and power of observation are truly precious."

According to Du Shuguo, head of the mineral resources management office at Zhuanghe's natural resources bureau, Zhuanghe has an active gold mine and two ongoing exploration projects.

As for the site Sun discovered, Du said the next steps would be decided after the sample test results come back.