Document and Entity Information [Abstract] Document and Entity Information. Amendment Flag Current Fiscal Year End Date Document Fiscal Period Focus Document Fiscal Year Focus Document Period End Date Document Type Entity Central Index Key Entity Common Stock, Shares Outstanding Entity Current Reporting Status Entity Filer Category Entity Registrant Name Accumulated Deficit Accumulated deficit Accumulated deficit Accumulated Depreciation Furniture And Office Equipment Accumulated Depreciation: Furniture and office equipment Accumulated Depreciation Furniture And Office Equipment Accumulated Depreciation Leasehold Improvements Accumulated Depreciation: Leasehold improvements Accumulated Depreciation Leasehold Improvements Accumulated Depreciation Machinery And Equipment Accumulated Depreciation: Machinery and equipment Accumulated Depreciation Machinery And Equipment Accumulated Depreciation Mineral Property Accumulated Depreciation: Mineral property Accumulated Depreciation Mineral Property Amended Maximum Number Of Options Available Under The Plan Amended maximum number of options available under the plan Amended Maximum Number Of Options Available Under The Plan Amount Payable In The Event Of Change Of Control Amount payable in the event of a change of control Amount Payable In The Event Of Change Of Control Amount Venezuela Ordered To Pay In Euros For Legal Fees Related To Annulment Proceedings Amount Venezuela ordered to pay In Euros for legal fees related to annulment proceedings Amount Venezuela Ordered To Pay In Euros For Legal Fees Related To Annulment Proceedings Announced Contemplated Payment By Venezuela To Acquire Mining Data Announced contemplated payment by Venezuela to acquire mining data Announced Contemplated Payment By Venezuela To Acquire Mining Data Announced Contemplated Payment Of Award Announced contemplated payment of award Announced Contemplated Payment Of Award Arbitral Award Settlement Arbitration and settlement (Note 3) Arbitral Award Settlement Arbitral Award Settlement and Associated Mining Data Sale: [Abstract] Arbitral Award Settlement And Associated Mining Data Sale Abstract Arbitral Award Settlement And Associated Mining Data Sale Text Block Arbitral Award Settlement and Associated Mining Data Sale: Arbitral Award Settlement And Associated Mining Data Sale Text Block Base Metal Royalty Base metal royalty Base Metal Royalty Bonus Percentage Of First Two Hundred Million Collected Bonus percentage of first two hundred million collected Bonus Percentage Of First Two Hundred Million Collected Bonus Percentage Thereafter Bonus percentage thereafter Bonus Percentage Thereafter Canadian Tax Loss Carryforward Expiring 2026 Canadian tax loss carryforward expiring 2026 Canadian Tax Loss Carryforward Expiring 2026 Canadian Tax Loss Carryforward Expiring 2027 Canadian tax loss carryforward expiring 2027 Canadian Tax Loss Carryforward Expiring 2027 Canadian Tax Loss Carryforward Expiring 2028 Canadian tax loss carryforward expiring 2028 Canadian Tax Loss Carryforward Expiring 2028 Canadian Tax Loss Carryforward Expiring 2029 Canadian tax loss carryforward expiring 2029 Canadian Tax Loss Carryforward Expiring 2029 Canadian Tax Loss Carryforward Expiring 2030 Canadian tax loss carryforward expiring 2030 Canadian Tax Loss Carryforward Expiring 2030 Canadian Tax Loss Carryforward Expiring 2031 Canadian tax loss carryforward expiring 2031 Canadian Tax Loss Carryforward Expiring 2031 Canadian Tax Loss Carryforward Expiring 2033 Canadian tax loss carryforward expiring 2033 Canadian Tax Loss Carryforward Expiring 2033 Canadian Tax Loss Carryforward Expiring 2034 Canadian tax loss carryforward expiring 2034 Canadian Tax Loss Carryforward Expiring 2034 Canadian Tax Loss Carryforward Expiring 2035 Canadian tax loss carryforward expiring 2035 Canadian Tax Loss Carryforward Expiring 2035 Canadian Tax Loss Carryforward Expiring 2036 Canadian tax loss carryforward expiring 2036 Canadian Tax Loss Carryforward Expiring 2036 Canadiantax Loss Carryforward Expiring 2032 Canadiantax loss carryforward expiring 2032 Canadian tax Loss Carryforward Expiring 2032 Capital Loss Carry Forwards Capital loss carry forwards Capital Loss Carry Forwards Carrying Value Of Convertible Notes Carrying value of 2018 convertible notes Carrying Value Of 2022 Convertible Notes Carrying Value Of Equipment Sold Carrying value of equipment sold Carrying Value Of Equipment Sold Carrying Value Of Old Convertible Notes Carrying value of 2022 convertible notes Carrying Value Of Old Convertible Notes Cash And Cash Equivalents Details [Abstract] Cash and Cash Equivalents: [Abstract] Cash And Cash Equivalents Details Abstract Cash and Cash Equivalents: (Tables) [Abstract] Cash And Cash Equivalents Tables Abstract Cash And Cash Equivalents Text Block Cash and Cash Equivalents: Cash And Cash Equivalents Text Block Cash Contributions To The Plan Cash contributions to the Plan Cash Contributions To The Plan Cash Flows From Operating Activities [Abstract] Cash Flows from Operating Activities: Cash Flows From Operating Activities Abstract Change In Valuation Allowance And Other Change in valuation allowance and other Change In Valuation Allowance And Other Class Authorized Unlimited [Abstract] Class A Authorized: Unlimited Class A Authorized: Unlimited Class Common Shares Without Par Value [Abstract] Class A Ccommon shares, without par value Class A common shares, without par value Common Shares: [Abstract] Common Shares Abstract Common Shares Issued For [Abstract] Common shares issued for: Common Shares Issued For Abstract Common Shares Text Block Common Shares: Common Shares Text Block Company Option To Buy Back One Percent Company option to buy back one percent Company Option To Buy Back One Percent Comprehensive Loss For The Period Comprehensive loss for the year Comprehensive loss for the period Contingent Legal Fees Contingent legal fees Contingent Legal Fees Contributed Surplus Contributed Surplus (Note 11) Contributed Surplus Conversion Price Conversion price Conversion Price Convertible Note Conversion Rate Per Share 2018 convertible note conversion rate per share 2018 Convertible Note Conversion Rate Per Share Convertible Note Conversion Rate Per Thousand 2018 convertible note conversion rate per thousand Convertible Note Conversion Rate Per Thousand Convertible Notes and Interest Notes: [Abstract] Convertible Notes And Interest Notes Abstract Convertible Notes And Interest Notes Fair Value Level Two Convertible notes and interest notes fair value level two Convertible Notes And Interest Notes Fair Value Level Two Convertible Notes And Interest Notes Fair Value Total Convertible notes and interest notes fair value total Convertible Notes And Interest Notes Fair Value Total Convertible Notes And Interest Notes Text Block Convertible Notes and Interest Notes: Convertible Notes And Interest Notes Text Block Convertible Notes Interest Rate 2018 convertible notes interest rate 2018 Convertible Notes Interest Rate Cost Machinery And Equipment Cost: Machinery and equipment Cost Machinery And Equipment Cost Mineral Property Cost: Mineral property Cost Mineral Property Costs Incurred Related To Mixed Company Costs incurred related to Mixed Company Costs Incurred Related To Mixed Company Cvr Percent CVR percent Cvr Percent Damages Award Damages award Damages Award Debt Restructuring Fees Non cash restructure expense Debt Restructuring Fees Different Tax Rates On Foreign Subsidiaries Different tax rates on foreign subsidiaries Different Tax Rates On Foreign Subsidiaries Dispositions At Cost Dispositions, at cost Dispositions At Cost Dividend Yield Dividend yield Dividend Yield Effective Interest Rate Effective interest rate Effective Interest Rate Equipment Holding Costs Equipment holding costs Equipment holding costs Equity Component Convertible Notes 2015 Equity component - convertible notes Equity Component Convertible Notes 2015 Equity Portion Of Notes Equity portion of notes Equity Portion Of Notes Equity Units Converted To Shares 2015 Equity Units converted to shares Equity Units Converted To Shares 2015 Equity Units Number [Member] Equity Units Number Equity Units Number Member Exercisable Options Aggregate Intrinsic Value 192 Exercisable Options Aggregate Intrinsic Value: $1.92 Exercisable Options Aggregate Intrinsic Value 192 Exercisable Options Aggregate Intrinsic Value 289 Exercisable Options Aggregate Intrinsic Value: $2.89 Exercisable Options Aggregate Intrinsic Value 289 Exercisable Options Aggregate Intrinsic Value 300 Exercisable Options Aggregate Intrinsic Value: $3.00 Exercisable Options Aggregate Intrinsic Value 300 Exercisable Options Aggregate Intrinsic Value 389 Exercisable Options Aggregate Intrinsic Value: $3.89 Exercisable Options Aggregate Intrinsic Value 389 Exercisable Options Aggregate Intrinsic Value 391 Exercisable Options Aggregate Intrinsic Value: $3.91 Exercisable Options Aggregate Intrinsic Value 391 Exercisable Options Aggregate Intrinsic Value 402 Exercisable Options Aggregate Intrinsic Value: $4.02 Exercisable Options Aggregate Intrinsic Value 402 Exercisable Options Aggregate Intrinsic Value Total Exercisable Options Aggregate Intrinsic Value: $1.92 - $4.02 Exercisable Options Aggregate Intrinsic Value Total Exercisable Options Number 192 Exercisable Options Number: $1.92 Exercisable Options Number 192 Exercisable Options Number 289 Exercisable Options Number: $2.89 Exercisable Options Number 289 Exercisable Options Number 300 Exercisable Options Number: $3.00 Exercisable Options Number 300 Exercisable Options Number 389 Exercisable Options Number: $3.89 Exercisable Options Number 389 Exercisable Options Number 391 Exercisable Options Number: $3.91 Exercisable Options Number 391 Exercisable Options Number 402 Exercisable Options Number: $4.02 Exercisable Options Number 402 Exercisable Options Number Total Exercisable Options Number: $1.92 - $4.02 Exercisable Options Number Total Exercisable Options Weighted Average Exercise Price 192 Exercisable Options Weighted Average Exercise Price: $1.92 Exercisable Options Weighted Average Exercise Price 192 Exercisable Options Weighted Average Exercise Price 289 Exercisable Options Weighted Average Exercise Price: $2.89 Exercisable Options Weighted Average Exercise Price 289 Exercisable Options Weighted Average Exercise Price 300 Exercisable Options Weighted Average Exercise Price: $3.00 Exercisable Options Weighted Average Exercise Price 300 Exercisable Options Weighted Average Exercise Price 389 Exercisable Options Weighted Average Exercise Price: $3.89 Exercisable Options Weighted Average Exercise Price 389 Exercisable Options Weighted Average Exercise Price 391 Exercisable Options Weighted Average Exercise Price: $3.91 Exercisable Options Weighted Average Exercise Price 391 Exercisable Options Weighted Average Exercise Price 402 Exercisable Options Weighted Average Exercise Price: $4.02 Exercisable Options Weighted Average Exercise Price 402 Exercisable Options Weighted Average Exercise Price Total Exercisable Options Weighted Average Exercise Price: $1.92 - $4.02 Exercisable Options Weighted Average Exercise Price Total Exercisable Options Weighted Average Remaining Contractual Term Years 192 Exercisable Options Weighted Average Remaining Contractual Term (Years): $1.92 Exercisable Options Weighted Average Remaining Contractual Term Years 192 Exercisable Options Weighted Average Remaining Contractual Term Years 289 Exercisable Options Weighted Average Remaining Contractual Term (Years): $2.89 Exercisable Options Weighted Average Remaining Contractual Term Years 289 Exercisable Options Weighted Average Remaining Contractual Term Years 300 Exercisable Options Weighted Average Remaining Contractual Term (Years): $3.00 Exercisable Options Weighted Average Remaining Contractual Term Years 300 Exercisable Options Weighted Average Remaining Contractual Term Years 389 Exercisable Options Weighted Average Remaining Contractual Term (Years): $3.89 Exercisable Options Weighted Average Remaining Contractual Term Years 389 Exercisable Options Weighted Average Remaining Contractual Term Years 391 Exercisable Options Weighted Average Remaining Contractual Term (Years): $3.91 Exercisable Options Weighted Average Remaining Contractual Term Years 391 Exercisable Options Weighted Average Remaining Contractual Term Years 402 Exercisable Options Weighted Average Remaining Contractual Term (Years): $4.02 Exercisable Options Weighted Average Remaining Contractual Term Years 402 Exercisable Options Weighted Average Remaining Contractual Term Years Total Exercisable Options Weighted Average Remaining Contractual Term (Years): $1.92 - $4.02 Exercisable Options Weighted Average Remaining Contractual Term Years Total Expected Term Expected term Expected Term Expected Volatility Expected volatility Expected Volatility Face Value Convertible Notes Face value convertible notes Face Value Convertible Notes Face Value Interest Notes Face value interest notes Face Value Interest Notes Fair Value At Beginning Of Year Fair value at beginning of year Fair Value At Beginning Of Year Fair Value Measurements: [Abstract] Fair Value Measurements Abstract Fair Value Measurements Details [Abstract] Fair Value Measurements: (details 1) [Abstract] Fair Value Measurements Details Abstract Fair Value Measurements: (Tables) [Abstract] Fair Value Measurements Tables Abstract Fair Value Measurements Tables Text Block Fair Value Measurements (Tables) Fair Value Measurements Tables Text Block Fair Value Measurements Text Block Fair Value Measurements: Fair Value Measurements Text Block Fair Value Of Equipment Fair value of equipment Fair Value Of Equipment Fair Value Of Options Exercised 2015 Fair value of options exercised Fair Value Of Options Exercised 2015 Fair Value Of Options Exercised 2016 Fair value of options exercised Fair Value Of Options Exercised 2016 Financing Fees Financing fees Financing Fees Future Tax Asset Text Block Future tax asset Future Tax Asset Text Block Impairment Loss Impairment loss Impairment Loss Income Tax: [Abstract] Income Tax Abstract Income Tax Benefit Based On Canadian Tax Rates Income tax benefit based on Canadian tax rates Income Tax Benefit Based On Canadian Tax Rates Income Tax Details 2 [Abstract] Income Tax: (details 2) [Abstract] Income Tax Details 2 Abstract Income Tax Details 3 [Abstract] Income Tax: (details 3) [Abstract] Income Tax Details 3 Abstract Income Tax Details [Abstract] Income Tax: (details 1) [Abstract] Income Tax Details 1 Abstract Income Tax Details Text [Abstract] Income Tax: (details text) [Abstract] Income Tax Details Text Abstract Income Tax Expense Text Block Income tax expense Income Tax Expense Text Block Income Tax Recorded By The Company income tax recorded by the Company Income Tax Recorded By The Company Income Tax: (Tables) [Abstract] Income Tax Tables Abstract Increase Decrease Due To [Abstract] Increase (decrease) due to: Increase Decrease Due To Abstract Increase In Market Value Increase in market value Increase In Market Value Interest Award Interest award Interest Award Interest Due As Of Date Of Original Settlement Agreement Interest due as of date of original Settlement Agreement Interest Due As Of Date Of Original Settlement Agreement Interest Notes Interest notes Interest Notes Items That May Be Reclassified Subsequently To The Consolidated Statement Of Operations [Abstract] Items that may be reclassified subsequently to the consolidated statement of operations: Items that may be reclassified subsequently to the consolidated statement of operations KSOP Plan: [Abstract] Ksop Plan Abstract Ksop Plan Text Block KSOP Plan: Ksop Plan Text Block Legal And Accounting Legal and accounting Legal and accounting Legal Costs Award Legal costs award Legal Costs Award Lms Acquisition LMS acquisition Lms Acquisition Loss Carry Forwards Text Block Loss carry forwards Loss Carry Forwards Text Block Loss On Fourth Quarter Restructuring Loss on fourth quarter 2015 restructuring Loss On Fourth Quarter Restructuring Loss On Sale Of Equipment Loss on sale of equipment Loss On Sale Of Equipment Marketable Securities Cost Basis Marketable securities cost basis Marketable Securities Cost Basis Marketable Securities Details [Abstract] Marketable Securities: (details 1) [Abstract] Marketable Securities Details Abstract Marketable Securities Details Text [Abstract] Marketable Securities: (details text) [Abstract] Marketable Securities Details Text Abstract Marketable Securities Fair Value Level One Marketable securities fair value level one Marketable Securities Fair Value Level One Marketable Securities Fair Value Total Marketable securities fair value total Marketable Securities Fair Value Total Marketable Securities: (Tables) [Abstract] Marketable Securities Tables Abstract Maximum Amount Of Proceeds Noteholders Entitled To Maximum amount of proceeds noteholders entitled to Maximum Amount Of Proceeds Noteholders Entitled To Maximum Term Of Options Maximum term of options Maximum Term Of Options Minimum Value Of Retention Units Minimum value of retention units Minimum Value Of Retention Units Mixed Company Mixed Company (Note 8) Mixed Company Mixed Company: [Abstract] Mixed Company Abstract Mixed Company Beneficial Ownership By Company Mixed Company beneficial ownership by Company Mixed Company Beneficial Ownership By Company Mixed Company Beneficial Ownership By Venezuela Mixed Company beneficial ownership by Venezuela Mixed Company Beneficial Ownership By Venezuela Mixed Company Text Block Mixed Company: Mixed Company Text Block Money Market Funds Money market funds Money Market Funds Net Furniture And Office Equipment Net: Furniture and office equipment Net Furniture And Office Equipment Net Leasehold Improvements Net: Leasehold improvements Net Leasehold Improvements Net Loss 2015 Net loss Net Loss 2015 Net Loss 2016 Net loss Net Loss 2016 Net Machinery And Equipment Net: Machinery and equipment Net Machinery And Equipment Net Mineral Property Net: Mineral property Net Mineral Property Net Operating Loss Carry Forwards Net operating loss carry forwards Net Operating Loss Carry Forwards New Accounting Policies: [Abstract] New Accounting Policies Abstract New Accounting Policies Text Block New Accounting Policies: New Accounting Policies Text Block Noncash Compensation Expense Non-cash compensation expense Noncash Compensation Expense Nondeductible Expenses Non-deductible expenses Nondeductible Expenses Note Conversion Note conversions (Note 11) Note Conversion Note Conversion In Shares 2016 Note conversions (Note 11) (in shares) Note Conversion In Shares 2016 Notes Converted Notes converted Notes Converted Old Convertible Note Conversion Rate Per Share 2022 convertible note conversion rate per share Old Convertible Note Conversion Rate Per Share Old Convertible Note Interest Rate 2022 convertible note interest rate 2022 Convertible Note Interest Rate Option Exercise Net Proceeds Option exercise net proceeds Option Exercise Net Proceeds Option Exercises 2015 Option exercises Option Exercises 2015 Option Exercises 2016 Option exercises Option Exercises 2016 Option Exercises In Shares 2015 Option exercises (in shares) Option Exercises In Shares 2015 Option Exercises In Shares 2016 Option exercises (in shares) Option Exercises In Shares 2016 Options Available For Grant Options available for grant Options Available For Grant Options Exercised Options exercised Options Exercised Options Exercised During The Period Options exercised during the period Options Exercised During The Period Options Granted Options granted Options Granted Options Granted During The Period Options granted during the period Options Granted During The Period Options Outstanding And Exercisable Text Block Options outstanding and exercisable Options Outstanding And Exercisable Text Block Other Comprehensive Income 2015 Other comprehensive income Other Comprehensive Income 2015 Other Comprehensive Income 2016 Other comprehensive income Other Comprehensive Income 2016 Other Comprehensive Income Loss Net Of Tax [Abstract] Other comprehensive income, net of tax: Other comprehensive income (loss), net of tax: Other Future Tax Asset Other future tax asset Other Future Tax Asset Outstanding Convertible Notes outstanding 2022 convertible notes Outstanding Convertible Notes Outstanding Options Aggregate Intrinsic Value 192 Outstanding Options Aggregate Intrinsic Value: $1.92 Outstanding Options Aggregate Intrinsic Value 192 Outstanding Options Aggregate Intrinsic Value 289 Outstanding Options Aggregate Intrinsic Value: $2.89 Outstanding Options Aggregate Intrinsic Value 289 Outstanding Options Aggregate Intrinsic Value 300 Outstanding Options Aggregate Intrinsic Value: $3.00 Outstanding Options Aggregate Intrinsic Value 300 Outstanding Options Aggregate Intrinsic Value 389 Outstanding Options Aggregate Intrinsic Value: $3.89 Outstanding Options Aggregate Intrinsic Value 389 Outstanding Options Aggregate Intrinsic Value 391 Outstanding Options Aggregate Intrinsic Value: $3.91 Outstanding Options Aggregate Intrinsic Value 391 Outstanding Options Aggregate Intrinsic Value 402 Outstanding Options Aggregate Intrinsic Value: $4.02 Outstanding Options Aggregate Intrinsic Value 402 Outstanding Options Aggregate Intrinsic Value Total Outstanding Options Aggregate Intrinsic Value: $1.92 - $4.02 Outstanding Options Aggregate Intrinsic Value Total Outstanding Options Number 192 Outstanding Options Number: $1.92 Outstanding Options Number 192 Outstanding Options Number 289 Outstanding Options Number: $2.89 Outstanding Options Number 289 Outstanding Options Number 300 Outstanding Options Number: $3.00 Outstanding Options Number 300 Outstanding Options Number 389 Outstanding Options Number: $3.89 Outstanding Options Number 389 Outstanding Options Number 391 Outstanding Options Number: $3.91 Outstanding Options Number 391 Outstanding Options Number 402 Outstanding Options Number: $4.02 Outstanding Options Number 402 Outstanding Options Number Total Outstanding Options Number: $1.92 - $4.02 Outstanding Options Number Total Outstanding Options Weighted Average Exercise Price 192 Outstanding Options Weighted Average Exercise Price: $1.92 Outstanding Options Weighted Average Exercise Price 192 Outstanding Options Weighted Average Exercise Price 289 Outstanding Options Weighted Average Exercise Price: $2.89 Outstanding Options Weighted Average Exercise Price 289 Outstanding Options Weighted Average Exercise Price 300 Outstanding Options Weighted Average Exercise Price: $3.00 Outstanding Options Weighted Average Exercise Price 300 Outstanding Options Weighted Average Exercise Price 389 Outstanding Options Weighted Average Exercise Price: $3.89 Outstanding Options Weighted Average Exercise Price 389 Outstanding Options Weighted Average Exercise Price 391 Outstanding Options Weighted Average Exercise Price: $3.91 Outstanding Options Weighted Average Exercise Price 391 Outstanding Options Weighted Average Exercise Price 402 Outstanding Options Weighted Average Exercise Price: $4.02 Outstanding Options Weighted Average Exercise Price 402 Outstanding Options Weighted Average Exercise Price Total Outstanding Options Weighted Average Exercise Price: $1.92 - $4.02 Outstanding Options Weighted Average Exercise Price Total Outstanding Options Weighted Average Remaining Contractual Term Years 192 Outstanding Options Weighted Average Remaining Contractual Term (Years): $1.92 Outstanding Options Weighted Average Remaining Contractual Term Years 192 Outstanding Options Weighted Average Remaining Contractual Term Years 289 Outstanding Options Weighted Average Remaining Contractual Term (Years): $2.89 Outstanding Options Weighted Average Remaining Contractual Term Years 289 Outstanding Options Weighted Average Remaining Contractual Term Years 300 Outstanding Options Weighted Average Remaining Contractual Term (Years): $3.00 Outstanding Options Weighted Average Remaining Contractual Term Years 300 Outstanding Options Weighted Average Remaining Contractual Term Years 389 Outstanding Options Weighted Average Remaining Contractual Term (Years): $3.89 Outstanding Options Weighted Average Remaining Contractual Term Years 389 Outstanding Options Weighted Average Remaining Contractual Term Years 391 Outstanding Options Weighted Average Remaining Contractual Term (Years): $3.91 Outstanding Options Weighted Average Remaining Contractual Term Years 391 Outstanding Options Weighted Average Remaining Contractual Term Years 402 Outstanding Options Weighted Average Remaining Contractual Term (Years): $4.02 Outstanding Options Weighted Average Remaining Contractual Term Years 402 Outstanding Options Weighted Average Remaining Contractual Term Years Total Outstanding Options Weighted Average Remaining Contractual Term (Years): $1.92 - $4.02 Outstanding Options Weighted Average Remaining Contractual Term Years Total Post Award Interest Rate Libor Plus Post award interest rate - Libor plus Post Award Interest Rate Libor Plus Precious Metals Royalty Precious metals royalty Precious Metals Royalty Preferred Authorized Unlimited [Abstract] Preferred Authorized: Unlimited Preferred Authorized: Unlimited Previous Maximum Number Of Options Available Under The Plan Previous maximum number of options available under the plan Previous Maximum Number Of Options Available Under The Plan Private Placement 2016 Private placement, net of costs Private Placement 2016 Private Placement Gross Proceeds Private placement gross proceeds Private Placement Gross Proceeds Private Placement In Shares 2016 Private placement, net of costs (in shares) Private Placement In Shares 2016 Private Placement Price Per Share Private placement price per share Private Placement Price Per Share Private Placement Shares Issued Private placement shares issued Private Placement Shares Issued Proceeds To Company From Option Exercises Proceeds to Company from option exercises Proceeds To Company From Option Exercises Property Plant And Equipment Details [Abstract] Property, Plant and Equipment: (details) [Abstract] Property Plant And Equipment Details Abstract Property Plant And Equipment Details Text [Abstract] Property, Plant and Equipment: (details text) [Abstract] Property Plant And Equipment Details Text Abstract Property Plant And Equipment Future Tax Asset Property, Plant and Equipment future tax asset Property Plant And Equipment Future Tax Asset Property, Plant and Equipment: (Tables) [Abstract] Property Plant And Equipment Tables Abstract Retention Units Held By Officers And Directors Retention units held by officers and directors Retention Units Held By Officers And Directors Retention Units Held By Others Retention units held by others Retention Units Held By Others Risk Free Interest Rate Risk free interest rate Risk Free Interest Rate Serial Preferred Stock Without Par Value [Abstract] Serial preferred stock, without par value gdrzf_Serial Preferred Stock Without Par Value Share Option Transactions Text Block Share option transactions Share Option Transactions Text Block Shares And Equity Units Amount [Member] Common Shares and Equity Units Amount Shares and Equity Units Amount Shares Issued Upon Conversion Shares issued upon conversion Shares Issued Upon Conversion Siembra Minera Beneficial Ownership By The Company Siembra Minera beneficial ownership by the Company Siembra Minera Beneficial Ownership By The Company Siembra Minera Beneficial Ownership By Venezuela Siembra Minera beneficial ownership by Venezuela Siembra Minera Beneficial Ownership By Venezuela Significant Accounting Policies (Policies) [Abstract] Significant Accounting Policies Policies Abstract Significant Accounting Policies Policies Text Block Significant Accounting Policies (Policies) Significant Accounting Policies Policies Text Block Stock Based Compensation Plans: [Abstract] Stock Based Compensation Plans Abstract Stock Based Compensation Plans Details [Abstract] Stock Based Compensation Plans: (details 3) [Abstract] Stock Based Compensation Plans Details Abstract Stock Based Compensation Plans Details Text [Abstract] Stock Based Compensation Plans: (details text) [Abstract] Stock Based Compensation Plans Details Text Abstract Stock Based Compensation Plans: (Tables) [Abstract] Stock Based Compensation Plans Tables Abstract Stock Based Compensation Plans Text Block Stock Based Compensation Plans: Stock Based Compensation Plans Text Block Stock Option Compensation 2015 Stock option compensation Stock Option Compensation 2015 Stock Option Compensation 2016 Stock option compensation Stock Option Compensation 2016 Stock Options Stock options (Note 10) Stock options Stock Options Comp [Member] Stock Options Stock Options Compensation Stockholders Equity 2016 Balance Stockholders Equity 2016 Stockholders Equityin Shares 2016 Balance (in shares) Stockholders Equity in Shares 2016 Summary Fourth Quarter Debt Restructuring Summary fourth quarter 2015 debt restructuring Summary Fourth Quarter Debt Restructuring Terms Of Convertible Notes Terms of 2018 convertible notes Terms Of 2018 Convertible Notes The Company and Significant Accounting Policies: [Abstract] The Company And Significant Accounting Policies Abstract Total Total Total Total Accumulated Depreciation Property Plant And Equipment Total accumulated depreciation property, plant and equipment Total Accumulated Depreciation Property Plant And Equipment Total Award Total award Total Award Total Canadian Tax Loss Carryforward Total Canadian tax loss carryforward Total Canadian Tax Loss Carryforward Total Cost Property Plant And Equipment Total cost property, plant and equipment Total Cost Property Plant And Equipment Total Expenses Total EXPENSES Total Expenses Total Future Tax Assets Total future tax assets Total Future Tax Assets Total Net Property Plant And Equipment Total net property, plant and equipment Total Net Property Plant And Equipment Total Us Tax Loss Carryforward Total US tax loss carryforward Total Us Tax Loss Carryforward Us Tax Loss Carryforward Expiring 2018 US tax loss carryforward expiring 2018 Us Tax Loss Carryforward Expiring 2018 Us Tax Loss Carryforward Expiring 2019 US tax loss carryforward expiring 2019 Us Tax Loss Carryforward Expiring 2019 Us Tax Loss Carryforward Expiring 2020 US tax loss carryforward expiring 2020 Us Tax Loss Carryforward Expiring 2020 Us Tax Loss Carryforward Expiring 2021 US tax loss carryforward expiring 2021 Us Tax Loss Carryforward Expiring 2021 Us Tax Loss Carryforward Expiring 2022 US tax loss carryforward expiring 2022 Us Tax Loss Carryforward Expiring 2022 Us Tax Loss Carryforward Expiring 2023 US tax loss carryforward expiring 2023 Us Tax Loss Carryforward Expiring 2023 Us Tax Loss Carryforward Expiring 2024 US tax loss carryforward expiring 2024 Us Tax Loss Carryforward Expiring 2024 Us Tax Loss Carryforward Expiring 2025 US tax loss carryforward expiring 2025 Us Tax Loss Carryforward Expiring 2025 Us Tax Loss Carryforward Expiring 2026 US tax loss carryforward expiring 2026 Us Tax Loss Carryforward Expiring 2026 Us Tax Loss Carryforward Expiring 2027 US tax loss carryforward expiring 2027 Us Tax Loss Carryforward Expiring 2027 Us Tax Loss Carryforward Expiring 2028 US tax loss carryforward expiring 2028 Us Tax Loss Carryforward Expiring 2028 Us Tax Loss Carryforward Expiring 2029 US tax loss carryforward expiring 2029 Us Tax Loss Carryforward Expiring 2029 Us Tax Loss Carryforward Expiring 2030 US tax loss carryforward expiring 2030 Us Tax Loss Carryforward Expiring 2030 Us Tax Loss Carryforward Expiring 2031 US tax loss carryforward expiring 2031 Us Tax Loss Carryforward Expiring 2031 Us Tax Loss Carryforward Expiring 2032 US tax loss carryforward expiring 2032 Us Tax Loss Carryforward Expiring 2032 Us Tax Loss Carryforward Expiring 2033 US tax loss carryforward expiring 2033 Us Tax Loss Carryforward Expiring 2033 Us Tax Loss Carryforward Expiring 2034 US tax loss carryforward expiring 2034 Us Tax Loss Carryforward Expiring 2034 Us Tax Loss Carryforward Expiring 2035 US tax loss carryforward expiring 2035 Us Tax Loss Carryforward Expiring 2035 Us Tax Loss Carryforward Expiring 2036 US tax loss carryforward expiring 2036 Us Tax Loss Carryforward Expiring 2036 Warrant Expiration Warrant expiration Warrant Expiration Warrant Value [Member] Warrants Warrant value Weighted Average Assumptions Text Block Weighted Average Assumptions Weighted Average Assumptions Text Block Weighted Average Exercise Price Options Exercisable Weighted average exercise price - options exercisable Weighted Average Exercise Price Options Exercisable Weighted Average Exercise Price Options Exercised Weighted average exercise price - options exercised Weighted Average Exercise Price Options Exercised Weighted Average Exercise Price Options Granted Weighted average exercise price - options granted Weighted Average Exercise Price Options Granted Weighted Average Exercise Price Options Outstanding Weighted average exercise price - options outstanding Weighted average exercise price - options outstanding Weighted Average Exercise Price Options Outstanding Weighted Average Fair Value Of Options Granted Weighted average fair value of options granted Weighted Average Fair Value Of Options Granted Writedown Of Brisas Equipment Write-down of Brisas equipment Writedown Of Brisas Equipment Writedown Of Property Plant And Equipment Writedown Of Property Plant And Equipment Write-down of property, plant and equipment Accounts Payable and Accrued Liabilities, Current Accounts payable and accrued expenses (Note 3) Accretion Expense Accretion of convertible notes Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax Accumulated other comprehensive income AOCI Attributable to Parent [Member] Accumulated Other Comprehensive income Additional Paid-in Capital [Member] Contributed Surplus Adjustments to Reconcile Net Income (Loss) to Cash Provided by (Used in) Operating Activities [Abstract] Adjustments to reconcile net loss to net cash used in operating activities: Assets Total assets Assets, Current Total current assets Assets, Current [Abstract] Current Assets: Available-for-sale Securities, Gross Realized Gain (Loss) Realized gain on marketable securities, net of tax of nil Available-for-sale Securities [Table Text Block] Marketable Securities: Cash and Cash Equivalents: [Abstract] Cash and Cash Equivalents, at Carrying Value Cash and cash equivalents (Note 4) Cash and cash equivalents - beginning of year Cash and cash equivalents - end of year Cash and Cash Equivalents, at Carrying Value [Abstract] Change in Cash and Cash Equivalents: Cash and Cash Equivalents, Period Increase (Decrease) Net increase in cash and cash equivalents Cash and Cash Equivalents, Policy [Policy Text Block] Cash and Cash Equivalents: Common Stock [Member] Common Shares Number Common Stock, Shares, Outstanding Issued and outstanding Common Stock, Value, Issued Common shares (Note 12) Convertible Debt, Noncurrent Convertible notes and interest notes (Note 11) Costs and Expenses [Abstract] EXPENSES Deferred Tax Assets, Net of Valuation Allowance Net deferred tax asset Deferred Tax Assets, Valuation Allowance Valuation allowance Depreciation Depreciation Early Repayment of Senior Debt Settlement of debt Earnings Per Share, Basic and Diluted Net loss per share, basic and diluted Equity Component [Domain] Exploration Expense Exploration Extinguishment of Debt, Gain (Loss), Net of Tax Loss on settlement of debt Foreign Currency Transaction Gain (Loss), before Tax Foreign currency gain Furniture and Fixtures, Gross Cost: Furniture and office equipment Gain (Loss) on Disposition of Property Plant Equipment Loss on sale of equipment Gain (Loss) on Sale of Securities, Net Gain on disposition of marketable securities Gains (Losses) on Extinguishment of Debt Loss on settlement of debt (Note 11) Gain (Loss) on Disposition of Assets for Financial Service Operations Loss on sale of equipment General and Administrative Expense Corporate general and administrative Other than Temporary Impairment Losses, Investments Loss on impairment of marketable securities (Note 5) Impairment of Long-Lived Assets Held-for-use Write-down of property, plant and equipment (Note 7) Income Statement [Abstract] Income Tax Disclosure [Text Block] Income Tax: Increase (Decrease) in Accounts Payable and Accrued Liabilities Net decrease in accounts payable and accrued expenses Increase (Decrease) in Deposits Net (increase) decrease in deposits and advances Increase (Decrease) in Operating Capital [Abstract] Changes in non-cash working capital: Interest-bearing Deposits in Banks and Other Financial Institutions Bank deposits Interest Expense Interest expense (Note 11) Interest Paid Cash paid for interest Interest Payable, Current Accrued interest Investments in Debt and Marketable Equity Securities (and Certain Trading Assets) Disclosure [Text Block] Marketable Securities: Leasehold Improvements, Gross Cost: Leasehold improvements Liabilities Total liabilities Liabilities [Abstract] LIABILITIES Liabilities and Equity Total liabilities and shareholders' equity Liabilities, Current Total current liabilities Liabilities, Current [Abstract] Current Liabilities: Marketable Securities Fair value at balance sheet date Marketable Securities: [Abstract] Marketable Securities, Current Marketable securities (Notes 5 and 6) Marketable Securities, Gain (Loss) Gain on disposition of marketable securities Marketable Securities, Realized Loss, Other than Temporary Impairments, Amount Impairment loss on marketable securities Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Financing Activities Net cash provided by financing activities Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Financing Activities [Abstract] Cash Flows from Financing Activities: Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Investing Activities Net cash provided by (used in) investing activities Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Investing Activities [Abstract] Cash Flows from Investing Activities: Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Operating Activities Net cash used in operating activities Net Income (Loss) Attributable to Parent Net loss for the year Other Assets, Current Deposits, advances and other Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax, Portion Attributable to Parent Other comprehensive income Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Unrealized Holding Gain (Loss) on Securities Arising During Period, Net of Tax Unrealized gain on marketable securities, net of tax of nil Other Income Net OTHER INCOME (LOSS) Other Interest and Dividend Income Interest income Other Liabilities, Noncurrent Other (Note 11) Other Nonoperating Income (Expense) [Abstract] OTHER INCOME (LOSS) Other than Temporary Impairment Losses, Investments, Available-for-sale Securities Impairment loss on marketable securities, net of tax of nil Payments to Acquire Other Property, Plant, and Equipment Purchase of property, plant and equipment Proceeds from Issuance of Common Stock Proceeds from the issuance of common shares Proceeds from Issuance of Debt Proceeds from the issuance of debt Proceeds from Sale and Maturity of Marketable Securities Proceeds from disposition of marketable securities Proceeds from Sale of Property, Plant, and Equipment Proceeds from sales of equipment Net Income (Loss), Including Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest Net loss for the year Net loss for the year Property, Plant and Equipment: [Abstract] Property, Plant and Equipment Disclosure [Text Block] Property, Plant and Equipment: Property, Plant and Equipment, Net Property, plant and equipment, net (Note 7) Property, Plant and Equipment [Table Text Block] Property, Plant and Equipment: Realized Investment Gains (Losses) Realized gain Restructuring Charges Debt restructuring (Note 11) Retained Earnings [Member] Accumulated Deficit Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Exercisable, Number Options exercisable - end of year Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Outstanding, Number Options outstanding - beginning of year Options outstanding - end of year Shares, Outstanding Balance (in shares) Balance (in shares) Significant Accounting Policies [Text Block] The Company and Significant Accounting Policies: Equity Components [Axis] Statement [Line Items] Statement of Cash Flows [Abstract] Statement of Financial Position [Abstract] Statement of Stockholders' Equity [Abstract] Statement [Table] Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Exercises in Period Options exercised Stock or Unit Option Plan Expense Stock option compensation Stockholders' Equity Attributable to Parent Total shareholders' equity (deficit) Balance Balance Stockholders' Equity Attributable to Parent [Abstract] SHAREHOLDERS' EQUITY Supplemental Cash Flow Information [Abstract] Supplemental Cash Flow Information: Weighted Average Number of Shares Outstanding, Diluted Weighted average common shares outstanding, basic and diluted