Golden Queen Mining Consolidated (GQMNF) 10-K 30 Mar 16 2015 FY Annual report Financial data

Document And Entity Information

Document And Entity Information - USD ($)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015	Mar. 30, 2016	Jun. 30, 2015
Document Information [Line Items]
Document Type	10-K
Amendment Flag	false
Document Period End Date	Dec. 31, 2015
Document Fiscal Year Focus	2,015
Document Fiscal Period Focus	FY
Entity Registrant Name	GOLDEN QUEEN MINING CO LTD
Entity Central Index Key	1,025,362
Current Fiscal Year End Date	--12-31
Entity Well-known Seasoned Issuer	No
Entity Voluntary Filers	No
Entity Current Reporting Status	Yes
Entity Filer Category	Non-accelerated Filer
Entity Public Float			$ 49,157,488
Trading Symbol	GQM
Entity Common Stock, Shares Outstanding		99,928,683

Consolidated Balance Sheets

Consolidated Balance Sheets - USD ($)	Dec. 31, 2015	Sep. 30, 2015	Jun. 30, 2015	Mar. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014	Sep. 30, 2014	Sep. 15, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
Current assets:
Cash ($31,531,853 and $83,282,403 attributable to VIE)	$ 37,587,311				$ 91,407,644			$ 5,030,522	$ 4,031,403
Receivables ($18,238 and $20,286 attributable to VIE)	23,962				52,136
Inventory (Note 2) ($1,852,359 and $Nil attributable to VIE)	1,852,359				0
Ore on leach pad (Note 2) ($83,240 and $Nil attributable to VIE)	83,240				0
Prepaid expenses and other current assets ($388,854 and $58,503 attributable to VIE)	432,353				114,625
Total current assets	39,979,225				91,574,405
Property, plant, equipment and mineral interests (Note 3) ($123,432,990 and $35,022,850 attributable to VIE)	128,562,572				37,389,601
Reclamation financial assurance (Note 6) ($902,382 and $ 553,329 attributable to VIE)	902,382				553,329
Total Assets	169,444,179				129,517,335
Current liabilities:
Accounts payable and accrued liabilities (Note 8(i)) ($3,239,935 and $3,231,870 attributable to VIE)	3,258,692				3,309,476
Interest payable (Note 8(ii) and (iii))	969,645				320,721
Financing fee payable (Note 8(iii))	0				250,000
Notes payable (Note 8(iii))	36,053,012				13,881,305			0
Current portion of loan payable (Note 12) ($4,942,716 and $222,839 attributable to VIE)	4,942,716				222,839
Derivative liability - Warrants (Note 8(iv))	2,498,269				0
Derivative liability-Convertible debentures (Note 8(ii))	0				1,829,770
Convertible debenture (Note 8(ii))	0				6,649,967			4,642,620
Total current liabilities	47,722,334				26,464,078
Asset retirement obligations (Note 6) ($978,453 and $624,142 attributable to VIE)	978,453				624,142
Loan payable (Note 12) ($13,430,107 and $690,293 attributable to VIE)	13,430,107				690,293
Deferred tax liability (Notes 4 and 15)	12,922,000				12,922,000		$ 12,922,000
Total liabilities	75,052,894	$ 70,813,299	$ 72,713,117	$ 44,280,690	40,700,513	$ 36,060,376
Temporary Equity
Redeemable portion of non-controlling interest (Note 8(vii))	27,123,741				22,833,645
Shareholders’ Equity
Common shares, no par value, unlimited shares authorized (2014 -unlimited); 99,928,683 (2014 - 99,778,683) shares issued and outstanding (Note 5)	62,860,443				62,709,015
Additional paid-in capital	43,627,511	43,623,713	43,468,510	43,468,510	43,468,510	43,514,755
Deficit accumulated	(79,906,021)				(74,444,816)
Total shareholders’ equity attributable to GQM Ltd.	26,581,933	27,299,722	29,068,686	30,447,950	31,732,709	30,235,822
Non-controlling interest (Note 8(vii))	40,685,611				34,250,468
Total Shareholders’ Equity	67,267,544	$ 68,283,389	$ 70,219,709	$ 64,526,394	65,983,177	$ 64,631,630		$ 6,240,932	$ 2,413,780
Total Liabilities, Temporary Equity and Shareholders’ Equity	$ 169,444,179				$ 129,517,335

Consolidated Balance Sheets (Pa

Consolidated Balance Sheets (Parenthetical) - USD ($)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014
Cash	$ 37,587,311	$ 91,407,644
Accounts Receivable, Net, Current, Total	23,962	52,136
Inventory, Net	1,852,359	0
Inventory, Ore Stockpiles on Leach Pads, Gross	83,240	0
Prepaid Expense and Other Assets, Current	432,353	114,625
Property Plant Equipment and Mineral Properties Net	128,562,572	37,389,601
Reclamation Financial Assurance	902,382	553,329
Accounts Payable and Accrued Liabilities, Current, Total	3,258,692	3,309,476
Asset Retirement Obligations, Noncurrent, Total	$ 978,453	$ 624,142
Common Stock, No Par Value	$ 0	$ 0
Common Stock, Shares Authorized, Unlimited	Unlimited	Unlimited
Common Stock, Shares, Issued	99,928,683	99,778,683
Common Stock, Shares, Outstanding	99,928,683	99,778,683
Loans Payable, Current, Total	$ 4,942,716	$ 222,839
Loans Payable, Noncurrent, Total	13,430,107	690,293
Variable Interest Entity, Primary Beneficiary [Member]
Cash	31,531,853	83,282,403
Accounts Receivable, Net, Current, Total	18,238	20,286
Inventory, Net	1,852,359	0
Inventory, Ore Stockpiles on Leach Pads, Gross	83,240	0
Prepaid Expense and Other Assets, Current	388,854	58,503
Property Plant Equipment and Mineral Properties Net	123,432,990	35,022,850
Reclamation Financial Assurance	902,382	553,329
Accounts Payable and Accrued Liabilities, Current, Total	3,239,935	3,231,870
Asset Retirement Obligations, Noncurrent, Total	978,453	624,142
Loans Payable, Current, Total	4,942,716	222,839
Loans Payable, Noncurrent, Total	$ 13,430,107	$ 690,293

Consolidated Statements of Inco

Consolidated Statements of Income/(Loss) and Comprehensive Income/(Loss) - USD ($)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
General and administrative expenses	$ (4,615,532)	$ (4,984,750)	$ (2,532,279)
Asset impairment loss	0	0	(2,522)
Change in fair value of derivative liability including change in foreign exchange (Notes 8(ii) and 8(iv))	3,334,224	1,004,217	5,385,660
Total Operating Expenses	(1,281,308)	(3,980,533)	2,850,859
Interest expense (Note 8(vi))	(4,507,268)	(1,493,034)	(888,026)
Loss on extinguishment of debt (Note 8(iii))	(151,539)	$ 0	$ 0
Financing fee (Note 8(iii))	(1,500,000)
Joint-venture transaction fee (Note 8(vii))	0	$ (2,275,000)	$ 0
Commitment fee (Note 8(vii))	0	(2,250,000)	0
Interest income	204,149	126,884	15,181
Net and comprehensive income (loss) for the year	(7,235,966)	(9,871,683)	1,978,014
Deduct: Net and comprehensive loss attributable to the non-controlling interest for the year (Note 8(vii))	1,774,761	1,402,479	0
Net and comprehensive income (loss) attributable to Golden Queen Mining Co Ltd. for the year	$ (5,461,205)	$ (8,469,204)	$ 1,978,014
Income (loss) per share - basic (Note 11)	$ (0.05)	$ (0.09)	$ 0.02
Income (loss) per share - diluted (Note 11)	$ (0.05)	$ (0.09)	$ (0.01)
Weighted average number of common shares outstanding - basic (in shares)	99,893,341	99,611,278	98,390,561
Weighted average number of common shares outstanding - diluted (in shares)	99,893,341	99,611,278	102,737,593

Consolidated Statements of Shar

Consolidated Statements of Shareholders' Equity, Non-controlling Interest and Redeemable Portion of Non-controlling Interest - USD ($)	Total	Common Stock [Member]	Additional Paid-in Capital [Member]	Deficit Accumulated [Member]	Total Shareholders' Equity attributable to GQM Ltd [Member]	Non-controlling Interest [Member]	Redeemable Portion of Non-controlling Interest [Member]
Balance at Dec. 31, 2012	$ 2,413,780	$ 61,959,471	$ 8,407,935	$ (67,953,626)	$ 2,413,780	$ 0	$ 0
Balance (in shares) at Dec. 31, 2012		97,998,383
Issuance of common shares for mineral property interests	22,568	$ 22,568	0	0	22,568	0	0
Issuance of common shares for mineral property interests (in shares)		15,000
Stock options exercised	307,363	$ 307,363	0	0	307,363	0	0
Stock options exercised (in shares)		1,220,000
Stock-based compensation	271,137	$ 0	271,137	0	271,137	0	0
Reclassification of derivative liability on the exercise of stock options	910,054	0	910,054	0	910,054	0	0
Reclassification of derivative liability upon conversion of exercise price of stock (Note 10)options from Canadian dollars to US dollars	338,016	0	338,016	0	338,016	0	0
Net income (loss) for the year	1,978,014	$ 0	0	1,978,014	1,978,014	0	0
Balance (in shares) at Dec. 31, 2013		99,233,383
Balance at Dec. 31, 2013	6,240,932	$ 62,289,402	9,927,142	(65,975,612)	6,240,932	0	0
Issuance of common shares for mineral property interests	24,480	$ 24,480	0	0	24,480	0	0
Issuance of common shares for mineral property interests (in shares)		15,300
Stock options exercised	111,421	$ 395,133	(283,712)	0	111,421	0	0
Stock options exercised (in shares)		530,000
Dilution of ownership interest in subsidiary to non-controlling interest (Note 8(vii))	84,605,363	$ 0	46,513,408	0	46,513,408	38,091,955	25,394,637
Distributions to non-controlling interest	(3,000,000)	0	0	0	0	(3,000,000)	(2,000,000)
Stock-based compensation	233,672	0	233,672	0	233,672	0	0
Deferred tax liability related to the dilution gain (Note 8(vii)	(12,922,000)	0	(12,922,000)	0	(12,922,000)	0	0
Net income (loss) for the year	(9,310,691)	$ 0	0	(8,469,204)	(8,469,204)	(841,487)	(560,992)
Balance (in shares) at Dec. 31, 2014		99,778,683
Balance at Dec. 31, 2014	65,983,177	$ 62,709,015	43,468,510	(74,444,816)	31,732,709	34,250,468	22,833,645
Issuance of common shares as part of management agreement (Note 5)	151,428	$ 151,428	0	0	151,428	0	0
Issuance of common shares as part of management agreement (in shares)		150,000
Stock-based compensation	159,001	$ 0	159,001	0	159,001	0	0
Capital contribution from non-controlling interest (Note 8(vii))	7,500,000	0	0	0	0	7,500,000	5,000,000
Net income (loss) for the year	(6,526,062)	$ 0	0	(5,461,205)	(5,461,205)	(1,064,857)	(709,904)
Balance (in shares) at Dec. 31, 2015		99,928,683
Balance at Dec. 31, 2015	$ 67,267,544	$ 62,860,443	$ 43,627,511	$ (79,906,021)	$ 26,581,933	$ 40,685,611	$ 27,123,741

Consolidated Statements of Cash

Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows - USD ($)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
Operating activities:
Net income (loss) for the year	$ (7,235,966)	$ (9,871,683)	$ 1,978,014
Adjustments to reconcile net income (loss) to cash used in operating activities:
Donated land	0	34,378	0
Amortization and depreciation	28,625	34,789	9,688
Asset impairment loss	0	0	2,522
Amortization of debt discount and interest accrual	4,225,311	1,489,682	888,026
Change in fair value of derivative liabilities including change in foreign exchange	(3,334,224)	(1,004,217)	(5,385,660)
Stock-based compensation	159,001	233,672	475,263
Non-cash consulting expense	151,428	$ 0	$ 0
Financing fee related to long-term debt	1,500,000
Loss on extinguishment of debt	151,539	$ 0	$ 0
Foreign exchange gain	(839,849)	(504,539)	(137,790)
Changes in assets and liabilities:
Receivables	28,174	(38,350)	3,186
Inventory	(1,852,359)	0	0
Ore on leach pad	(83,240)	0	0
Prepaid expenses and other current assets	(317,728)	(51,674)	18,897
Accounts payable and accrued liabilities	188,623	(329,523)	386,666
Interest payable	(951,445)	(1,145,786)	0
Cash used in operating activities	(8,182,110)	(11,153,251)	(1,761,188)
Investment activities:
Additions to property, plant, equipment and mineral interests	(68,956,621)	(21,624,355)	(7,117,996)
Purchase of financial assurance	(349,053)	(74,590)	(139,663)
Cash used in investing activities	(69,305,674)	(21,698,945)	(7,257,659)
Financing activities:
Investment in Golden Queen Mining Company LLC by non-controlling interest	12,500,000	110,000,000	0
Distribution to non-controlling interest	0	(5,000,000)	0
Proceeds from convertible debt	0	0	9,710,603
Borrowing under long-term debt	25,000,000	32,500,000	0
Repayment of short-term debt	(2,500,000)	(17,500,000)	0
Financing fees related to short-term debt	(1,500,000)	(868,695)	0
Repayment of convertible debentures	(7,675,000)	0	0
Repayment of loans payable	(1,907,549)	(13,408)
Financing fees related to short-term debt capitalized to the loan	(250,000)	0	0
Issuance of common shares upon exercise of stock options	0	111,421	307,363
Cash provided by financing activities	23,667,451	119,229,318	10,017,966
Net change in cash	(53,820,333)	86,377,122	999,119
Cash, Beginning balance	91,407,644	5,030,522	4,031,403
Cash, Ending balance	$ 37,587,311	$ 91,407,644	$ 5,030,522

Business Description and Accoun

Business Description and Accounting Policies	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015
Accounting Policies [Abstract]
Business Description and Accounting Policies [Text Block]	Nature of Business 50 2015 Principles of Consolidation The Company consolidates all entities in which it can vote a majority of the outstanding voting stock. In addition, it consolidates entities which meet the definition of a variable interest entity for which it is the primary beneficiary. The primary beneficiary is the party who has the power to direct the activities of a variable interest entity that most significantly impact the entity’s economic performance and who has an obligation to absorb losses of the entity or a right to receive benefits from the entity that could potentially be significant to the entity. We consider special allocations of cash flows and preferences, if any, to determine amounts allocable to non-controlling interests. All intercompany transactions and balances are eliminated in consolidation. These consolidated financial statements include the accounts of Golden Queen, a British Columbia corporation, its wholly-owned subsidiary, GQM Holdings, a US (State of California) corporation, and GQM LLC, a limited liability company in which Golden Queen has a 50 Generally Accepted Accounting Principles (“GAAP”) The consolidated financial statements have been prepared in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States. For purposes of balance sheet classification and the statements of cash flows, the Company considers all highly liquid investments purchased with an original maturity of three months or less to be cash equivalents. As at December 31, 2015 and 2014, the Company did not have any cash equivalents. The Company places its cash and cash equivalents with high quality financial institutions. At times, such cash deposits may be in excess of Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation insurance limits. To date, the Company has not experienced a loss or lack of access to its cash and cash equivalents. However, no assurance can be provided that access to the Company’s cash and cash equivalents will not be impacted by adverse economic conditions in the financial markets. Inventories include stockpiles, in-process inventory, doré, and operating materials and supplies. The classification of inventory is determined by the stage at which the ore is in the production process. As at December 31, 2015, the Company had stockpiles, operating materials, supplies and spare parts. All inventories are stated at the lower of cost or market, with cost being determined using a weighted average cost method. Dore inventory includes product at the mine site. Dore inventory costs include direct labor, materials, depreciation, depletion and amortization as well as overhead costs relating to mining activities. The heap leach process extracts silver and gold by placing ore on an impermeable pad and applying a diluted cyanide solution that dissolves a portion of the contained silver and gold, which are then recovered in metallurgical processes. As at December 31, 2015, the Company had placed a small amount of ore on the heap leach pad but had not started placing leaching solution on the ore. The procedures and policies discussed below that pertain to more advanced stages will be applied once that specific process has been reached. The Company uses several integrated steps to scientifically measure the metal content of ore placed on the leach pads. As the ore body is drilled in preparation for the blasting process, samples are taken of the drill residue which are assayed to determine estimated quantities of contained metal. The Company then processes the ore through crushing facilities where the output is weighed and sampled for assaying. The Company weighs the ore using a belt mounted weightometer to accurately measure the quantity of ore placed on the leach pad. The crushed ore is then transported to the leach pad for application of the leaching solution. As the leach solution is collected from the leach pads, it is continuously sampled for assaying. The quantity of leach solution is measured by flow meters throughout the leaching and precipitation process. After precipitation, the product is converted to doré, which is the final product produced by the mine. The inventory is stated at lower of cost or market, with cost being determined using a weighted average cost method. The historical cost of the metal that is expected to be extracted within twelve months is classified as current and the historical cost of metals contained within the broken ore that is expected to be extracted beyond twelve months is classified as non-current. Ore on leach pad is valued based on actual production costs incurred to produce and place ore on the leach pad, less costs allocated to minerals recovered through the leach process. The estimate of both the ultimate recovery expected over time and the quantity of metal that may be extracted relative to the time the leach process occurs requires the use of estimates, which are inherently inaccurate due to the nature of the leaching process. The quantities of metal contained in the ore are based upon actual weights and assay analysis. The rate at which the leach process extracts gold and silver from the crushed ore is based upon metallurgical test column estimates. The assumptions that will be used by the Company to measure metal content during each stage of the inventory conversion process includes estimated recovery rates based on laboratory testing and assaying. The Company will periodically review its estimates compared to actual experience and revise its estimates when appropriate. As operations begin, the Company will not have any actual experience as a basis to compare estimates to and therefore will begin comparing estimates to actual results once the Company’s actual experiences have a sufficiently predictive quality. Variations between actual and estimated quantities resulting from changes in assumptions and estimates that do not result in write-downs to net realizable value are accounted for on a prospective basis. Costs related to the development of our mineral reserves are capitalized when it has been determined an ore body can be economically developed. An ore body is determined to be economically minable based on proven and probable reserves and when appropriate permits are in place. Major mine development expenditures are capitalized, including primary development costs such as costs of building access roads, heap leach pads, processing facilities, and infrastructure development. The Company also capitalizes additional development expenditures that are directly related to the development of the mine. Drilling and related costs are classified as additional development expenditures, are charged to operations as incurred, or capitalized, based on the following criteria: · Whether or not the costs are incurred to further define mineralization at and adjacent to existing reserve areas or intended to assist with mine planning within a reserve area; · Whether or not the drilling costs relate to an ore body that has been determined to be commercially mineable, and a decision has been made to put the ore body into commercial production; and · Whether or not at the time that the cost is incurred, the expenditure: (a) embodies a probable future benefit that involves a capacity, singly or in combination, with other assets to contribute directly or indirectly to future net cash inflows, (b) we can obtain the benefit and control others’ access to it, and (c) the transaction or event giving rise to our right to or control of the benefit has already occurred. If all of these criteria are met, drilling and related costs are capitalized. Drilling costs not meeting all of these criteria are expensed as incurred. The following factors are considered in determining whether or not the criteria listed above have been met, and capitalization of drilling costs is appropriate: · Completion of a favourable economic study and mine plan for the ore body targeted; · Authorization of development of the ore body by management and/or the Board of Directors; and · All permitting and/or contractual requirements necessary for us to have the right to or control of the future benefit from the targeted ore body have been met. Property, plant, equipment and mineral interests are stated at the lower of cost or net realizable value less accumulated depreciation. Land Not depreciated Mineral property interests and claims Units-of-production Mine development Units-of-production Mine equipment 5 – 10 years Buildings 12 – 30 years Leasehold improvements 30 years Vehicles 5 – 10 years Computer equipment and software 3 years Asset retirements cost Units-of-production Capitalized interest Units-of-production The Company has instituted a policy that all property, plant, and equipment, not related to the actual mine development, acquired for an amount over $ 3,000 Once production has commenced, the capitalization of certain mine construction costs ceases and expenditures are either variable production costs as a component of inventory or expensed as incurred. Exceptions include costs incurred for additions or improvements to property, plant, equipment and mineral interests. If mineral interests are subsequently abandoned or impaired, any capitalized costs will be charged to the Consolidated Statements of Income (Loss) and Comprehensive Income (Loss) for that period. A mine construction project is considered to have entered the production stage when the mine construction assets are available for use. At this point the Company will begin depletion of its assets as outlined in the above breakdown. In determining whether mine construction assets are considered available for use, the criteria considered include, but are not limited to, the following: · Completion of a reasonable period of testing mine plant and equipment; · Ability to produce minerals in saleable form (within specifications); and · Ability to sustain ongoing production of minerals. As at December 31, 2015, the Project was not considered to be in commercial production For significant exploration and development projects, interest is capitalized as part of the historical cost of developing and constructing assets in accordance with ASC 835-20 ("capitalization of interest"). Interest is capitalized until the asset is ready for service. Capitalized interest is determined by multiplying the Company’s weighted-average borrowing cost on general debt by the average amount of qualifying costs incurred. Once an asset subject to interest capitalization is completed and placed in service, the associated capitalized interest is expensed through depletion or impairment. See Note 8(vi) - Amortization of Discount and Interest Expense. The Company reviews and evaluates its long-lived assets for impairment when events or changes in circumstances indicate that the related carrying amounts may not be recoverable. Asset impairment is considered to exist if the total estimated undiscounted pre-tax future cash flows are less than the carrying amount of the asset. In estimating future cash flows, assets are grouped at the lowest level for which there is identifiable cash flows that are largely independent of future cash flows from other asset groups. An impairment loss is measured and recorded based on discounted estimated future cash flows. Future cash flows are estimated based on estimated quantities of recoverable minerals, expected silver and gold prices (considering current and historical prices, trends and related factors), production levels, operating costs, capital requirements and reclamation costs, all based on life-of mine plans. Existing proven and probable reserves are included when determining the fair value of mine site asset groups at acquisition and, subsequently, in determining whether the assets are impaired. The term “recoverable minerals” refers to the estimated amount of silver and gold that will be obtained after taking into account losses during ore processing and treatment. Estimates of recoverable minerals from exploration stage mineral interests are risk adjusted based on management’s relative confidence in such materials. The ability to achieve the estimated quantities of recoverable minerals from exploration stage mineral interests involves further risks in addition to those risk factors applicable to mineral interests where proven and probable reserves have been identified, due to the lower level of confidence that the identified mineralized material could ultimately be mined economically. Assets classified as exploration potential have the highest level of risk that the carrying value of the asset can be ultimately realized, due to the still lower level of geological confidence and economic modeling. Silver and gold prices are volatile and affected by many factors beyond the Company’s control, including prevailing interest rates and returns on other asset classes, expectations regarding inflation, speculation, currency values, governmental decisions regarding precious metals stockpiles, global and regional demand and production, political and economic conditions and other factors may affect the key assumptions used in the Company’s impairment testing. Various factors could impact our ability to achieve forecasted production levels from proven and probable reserves. Additionally, production, capital and reclamation costs could differ from the assumptions used in the cash flow models used to assess impairment. Actual results may vary from the Company’s estimates and result in additional impairment charges. The Company’s functional and reporting currency, the US dollar, is the primary economic currency. Assets and liabilities in foreign currencies are generally translated into US dollars at the exchange rate on the balance sheet date. Revenues and expenses are translated at exchange rates on the date of the transaction. Where amounts denominated in a foreign currency are converted into US dollars by remittance or repayment, the realized exchange differences are included in other income. The exchange rates prevailing at December 31, 2015, December 31, 2014 and December 31, 2013 were $ 1.38 1.16 1.06 1.28 1.10 1.06 The Company computes and discloses earnings (loss) per share in accordance with ASC 260, “Earnings per Share”, which requires dual presentation of basic earnings (loss) per share and diluted earnings (loss) per share on the face of all income statements presented for all entities with complex capital structures. Basic earnings (loss) per share is computed as net income (loss) attributed to the Company divided by the weighted average number of common shares outstanding for the period. Diluted earnings (loss) per share reflects the potential dilution that could occur from common shares issuable through stock options, warrants and convertible instruments. Net income attributable to any non-controlling interest is not included in the calculation of the basic and diluted earnings (loss) per share. Asset retirement obligations (‘‘AROs’’) arise from the acquisition, development and construction of mining properties and plant and equipment due to government controls and regulations that protect the environment on the closure and reclamation of mining properties. The major parts of the carrying amount of AROs relate to tailings and heap leach pad closure and rehabilitation, demolition of buildings and mine facilities, ongoing water treatment and ongoing care and maintenance of closed mines. The Company recognizes an ARO at the time the environmental disturbance occurs. When the ARO provision is recognized, the corresponding cost is capitalized to property, plant, equipment and mineral interests and depreciated over the life of the related assets. The timing of the actual environmental remediation expenditures is dependent on a number of factors such as the life and nature of the asset, the operating license conditions and the environment in which the mine operates. Reclamation provisions are measured at the expected value of future cash flows discounted to their present value using a credit adjusted risk-free interest rate. AROs are adjusted each period to reflect the passage of time (accretion). Accretion expense is recorded in cost of sales each period. Upon settlement of an ARO, the Company records a gain or loss if the actual cost differs from the carrying amount of the ARO. Settlement gains/losses are recorded in the consolidated statements of income (loss). Expected ARO is updated to reflect changes in facts and circumstances. The principal factors that can cause the ARO to change are the construction of new processing facilities, changes in the quantities of material in proven and probable mineral reserves and a corresponding change in the life-of-mine plan, changing ore characteristics that impact required environmental protection measures and related costs, changes in water quality that impact the extent of water treatment required and changes in laws and regulations governing the protection of the environment. Each reporting period, provisions for AROs are re-measured to reflect any changes to significant assumptions, including the amount and timing of expected cash flows and credit adjusted risk-free interest rates. Changes to the reclamation provision resulting from changes in estimate are added to or deducted from the cost of the related asset, except where the reduction of the reclamation provision exceeds the carrying value of the related assets in which case the asset is reduced to nil and the remaining adjustment is recognized in the consolidated statements of income (loss). The carrying amounts reported in the balance sheets for cash, receivables, accounts payable and accrued liabilities, interest payable, financing fee payable and reclamation financial assurance approximate fair values because of the immediate or short-term maturity of these financial instruments. The fair value of the short-term and long-term loans payable approximate their carrying values as the interest rates are based on the market rates. The market rates have remained steady for the loans payable during the past four quarters. The fair value of the short and long term portions of the notes payable approximates their carrying value and have been estimated based on discounted cash flows using interest rates being offered for similar debt instruments. The carrying amount of the notes payable are being recorded at amortized cost using the effective interest rate method. As at December 31, 2015, the fair value of the convertible debt and the notes payable was $Nil (December 31, 2014: $ 7,972,993 32,972,361 13,351,649 The Company follows the asset and liability method of accounting for income taxes whereby the deferred tax assets and liabilities are recognized for the future tax consequences of differences between the financial statement carrying amounts of existing assets and liabilities and their respective tax basis. If it is determined that the realization of a future tax benefit is not more likely than not, the Company establishes a valuation allowance. Stock Option Plan 1,070,000 750,000 Compensation costs are charged to the consolidated statements of income (loss) and comprehensive income (loss). Compensation costs for employees are amortized over the period from the grant date to the date the options vest. Compensation expense for non-employees is recognized immediately for past services and pro-rata for future services over the service provision period. We account for stock-based compensation awards granted to non-employees in accordance with FASB ASC Topic 505-50, Equity-Based Payments to Non-Employees, or The Company uses the Black-Scholes option valuation model to calculate the fair value of stock options at the date of grant. Option pricing models require the input of highly subjective assumptions, including the expected price volatility. Changes in these assumptions can materially affect the fair value estimate. The Company reviews the terms of its equity instruments and other financing arrangements to determine whether or not there are embedded derivative instruments that are required to be accounted for separately as a derivative financial instrument. Also, in connection with the issuance of financing instruments, the Company may issue freestanding options or warrants that may, depending on their terms, be accounted for as derivative instrument liabilities, rather than as equity. The Company may also issue options or warrants to non-employees in connection with consulting or other services. Derivative financial instruments are measured at their fair value. For derivative financial instruments that are accounted for as liabilities, the derivative instrument is initially recorded at its fair value and is then re-valued at each reporting date, with changes in the fair value reported as charges or credits to profit or loss. For warrant-based derivative financial instruments, the Company uses the Black-Scholes option pricing model to estimate fair value of the derivative instruments. For more complex derivative financial instruments, the Company uses acceptable pricing models to estimate fair value of the derivative instrument. The classification of derivative instruments, including whether or not such instruments should be recorded as liabilities or as equity, is reassessed at the end of each reporting period. If reclassification is required, the fair value of the derivative instrument, as of the determination date, is reclassified. Any previous charges or credits to income for changes in the fair value of the derivative instrument are not reversed. Derivative instrument liabilities are classified in the balance sheet as current or non-current based on whether net-cash settlement of the derivative instrument could be required within 12 months of the balance sheet date. Non-controlling interests in temporary equity represent the estimated portion of non-controlling interest that could potentially be convertible through either a conversion of the non-controlling interest into a net smelter royalty obligation of GQM LLC or a buy-out of the non-controlling interest at fair value by the Company. The convertible portion of non-controlling interest recorded in temporary equity is initially recorded at the carrying value and then adjusted for net income or loss and distributions attributable to the temporary equity. The non-controlling interest in permanent equity represents the portion of the non-controlling interest that is not convertible. Please refer to Note 8(vii) of the audited consolidated annual financial statements for complete details of how the transaction has been accounted for. (i) Effective August 2014, FASB issued Accounting Standards update (“ASU”) 2014-15, Presentation of Financial Statements – Going Concern (Subtopic 205-40 –Disclosure of Uncertainties about an Entity’s Ability to Continue as a Going Concern. The update essentially requires management of all entities, for annual and interim periods, to evaluate whether there are conditions or events, considered in the aggregate, that raise substantial doubt about the entity’s ability to continue as a going concern within one year after the date the financial statements are issued. If conditions or events raise substantial doubt about an entity’s ability to continue as a going concern, but the substantial doubt is alleviated as a result of consideration of management’s plans, the entity should disclose information that enables users of the financial statements to understand all of the following: 1. Principal conditions or events that raised substantial doubt about the entity’s ability to continue as a going concern (before consideration of management’s plans). 2. Management’s evaluation of the significance of those conditions or events in relation to the entity’s ability to meet its obligations. 3. Management’s plans that alleviated substantial doubt about the entity’s ability to continue as a going concern. If conditions or events raise substantial doubt about an entity’s ability to continue as a going concern, and substantial doubt is not alleviated after consideration of management’s plans, an entity should include a statement in the footnotes indicating that there is substantial doubt about the entity’s ability to continue as a going concern 1. Principal conditions or events that raise substantial doubt about the entity’s ability to continue as a going concern. 2. Management’s evaluation of the significance of those conditions or events in relation to the entity’s ability to meet its obligations. 3. Management’s plans that are intended to mitigate the conditions or events that raise substantial doubt about the entity’s ability to continue as a going concern. This update will come into effect for the annual period ending after December 15, 2016, and for annual periods and interim periods thereafter. The Company is assessing the impact of this standard. (ii) In February, 2015, the FASB issued ASU 2015-02, Consolidation (Topic 810) – Amendments to the Consolidation Analysis ⋅ Placing more emphasis on risk of loss when determining a controlling financial interest. A reporting organization may no longer have to consolidate a legal entity in certain circumstances based solely on its fee arrangement, when certain criteria are met. ⋅ Reducing the frequency of the application of related-party guidance when determining a controlling financial interest in a variable interest entity (VIE). ⋅ Changing consolidation conclusions for public and private companies in several industries that typically make use of limited partnerships or VIEs. The ASU will be effective for periods beginning after December 15, 2015, for public companies. Early adoption is permitted, including adoption in an interim period. The Company will adopt the ASU effective January 1, 2016. (iii) In April, 2015, FASB issued ASU 2015-03, Interest – Imputation of Interest (Subtopic 835-30) which focuses on simplifying the presentation of debt issuance costs, the amendments in this update require that debt issuance costs related to a recognized debt liability be presented in the balance sheet as a direct deduction from the carrying amount of that debt liability, consistent with debt discounts. The recognition and measurement guidance for debt issuance costs are not affected by the amendments in this update. The ASU will be effective for periods beginning after December 15, 2015, for public companies. Early adoption is permitted, including adoption in an interim period. The Company has adopted the ASU for the December 31, 2015 year-end (iv) In July 2015, FASB issued ASU 2015-11, Inventory – Simplifying the Measurement of Inventory (Topic 330) which focuses on simplifying the guidance on subsequent measurement of inventory. Currently, the guidance requires an entity to measure inventory at the lower of cost or market. Market could be replacement cost, net realizable value, or net realizable value less an approximately normal profit margin. The ASU now updated the measurement to lower of cost and net realizable value. Net realizable value is the estimated selling prices in the ordinary course of business, less reasonably predictable costs of completion, disposal, and transportation. The ASU will be effective for periods beginning after December 15, 2016, for public companies. Early adoption is permitted, including adoption in an interim period. The Company assessed the impact of this new standard and adopted the new standard effective October 1, 2015. As the Company had a small inventory balance, the impact of the adoption of the new standard was immaterial. (v) In November 2015, FASB issued ASU 2015-17, Income taxes – Balance sheet classification of deferred taxes (Topic 740), which simplifies the requirement to classify deferred tax assets and liabilities as non-current and current on the statement of financial position to only having to classify the deferred tax assets and liabilities as non-current. This update will come into effect for the annual period ending after December 15, 2016, and for annual periods and interim periods thereafter. Early adoption is permitted as of the beginning of an interim or annual reporting period. The Company has assessed the impact of the new standard and has adopted the standard for the December 31, 2015 year end (vi) In January 2016, FASB issued ASU 2016-01, Financial Instruments – Recognition and measurement of financial assets and financial liabilities (Subtopic 825-10) which updates several aspects of recognition, measurement, presentation and disclosure of financial instruments. The amendments are as follows: 1. Require equity investments (except those accounted for under the equity method of accounting or those that result in consolidation of the investee) to be measured at fair value with changes in fair value recognized in net income. However, an entity may choose to measure equity investments that do not have readily determinable fair values at cost minus impairment, if any, plus or minus changes resulting from observable price changes in orderly transactions for the identical or a similar investment of the same issuer. 2. Simplify the impairment assessment of equity investments without readily determinable fair values by requiring a qualitative assessment to identify impairment. When a qualitative assessment indicates that impairment exists, an entity is required to measure the investment at fair value 3. Eliminate the requirement to disclose the fair value of financial instruments measured at amortized cost for entities that are not public business entities. 4. Eliminate the requirement for public business entities to disclose the method(s) and significant assumptions used to estimate the fair value that is required to be disclosed for financial instruments measured at amortized cost on the balance sheet. 5. Require public business entities to use the exit price notion when measuring the fair value of financial instruments for disclosure purposes. 6. Require an entity to present separately in other comprehensive income the portion of the total change in the fair value of a liability resulting from a change in the instrument-specific credit risk when the entity has elected to measure the liability at fair value in accordance with the fair value option for financial instruments. 7. Require separate presentation of financial assets and financial liabilities by measurement category and form of financial asset (that is, securities or loans and receivables) on the balance sheet or the accompanying notes to the financial statements. 8. Clarify that an entity should evaluate the need for a valuation allowance on a deferred tax asset related to available-for-sale securities in combination with the entity’s other deferred tax assets . The ASU will be effective for periods beginning after December 15, 2017, for public companies. The Company is assessing the impact of this standard.

Basis of Presentation and Abili

Basis of Presentation and Ability to Continue as a Going Concern	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015
Organization, Consolidation and Presentation of Financial Statements [Abstract]
Basis of Accounting [Text Block]	1. Basis of Presentation and Ability to Continue as a Going Concern The Company has had no revenues from operations since inception and as at December 31, 2015 had accumulated deficit of $ 79,906,021 74,444,816 7,743,109 65,110,327 At the Project level, GQM LLC is a going concern as it has sufficient funds to meet its contractual obligations for the next twelve months. On a non-consolidated basis, the ability of Golden Queen to obtain financing for its ongoing activities and repay its obligations, 38,681,507 Golden Queen, on a non-consolidated basis, currently does not have sufficient funds to repay the $37,500,000 loan plus accrued interest at the issuance date of the consolidated financial statements. However, in order to secure the necessary funds to meet this upcoming obligation and mitigate the going concern issue, management is actively exploring several options including debt financing and equity offering. While Golden Queen has been successful at certain of these efforts in the past, there can be no assurance that future efforts will be successful. This raises substantial doubt about this entity’s ability to continue as a going concern. The Company’s access to the net assets of GQM LLC is determined by the Board of Managers of GQM LLC. The Board of Managers is not controlled by the Company and therefore there is no guarantee that any access to the net assets of GQM LLC would be provided to the Company in order to continue as a going concern. The Board of Managers of GQM LLC determine when and if distributions from GQM LLC are made to the holders of its membership units at their sole discretion. Please refer to Note 16 for non-consolidated balance sheets, statements of income/(loss) and comprehensive income/(loss) and statements of cash flows for GQM Ltd. These consolidated financial statements do not include any adjustments to the recoverability and classification of recorded asset amounts and classification of liabilities that might be necessary should the Company be unable to continue as a going concern.

Inventory and Ore on Heap Leach

Inventory and Ore on Heap Leach Pad	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015
Inventory, Net [Abstract]
Inventory Disclosure [Text Block]	2. Inventory and Ore on Heap Leach Pad December 31, 2015 December 31, 2014 Stockpile inventory $ 1,259,669 $ - Supplies and spare parts 592,690 - $ 1,852,359 $ - Ore on heap leach pad: Current $ 83,240 -

Property, Plant, Equipment and

Property, Plant, Equipment and Mineral Interests	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015
Property, Plant and Equipment, Net [Abstract]
Property, Plant and Equipment Disclosure [Text Block]	3. Property, Plant, Equipment and Mineral Interests December 31, 2015 December 31, 2014 Land $ 109,600 $ 109,600 Mineral property interests and claims 4,458,744 3,299,319 Mine development 86,038,407 29,609,116 Mining equipment 25,425,661 1,167,872 Buildings 5,691,335 378,260 Leasehold improvements 51,030 46,402 Computer equipment and software 218,822 72,509 Vehicles 978,573 204,640 Asset retirement costs 626,878 272,567 Capitalized interest 5,174,846 2,412,015 Less: Accumulated depreciation, depletion and Amortization expensed (211,324) (182,699) $ 128,562,572 $ 37,389,601 During the year ended December 31, 2015, the Company capitalized depreciation of $ 2,255,056 126,631 The Company is capitalizing a portion of the interest expense related to the convertible debenture and notes payable in accordance with its accounting policy. See Note 8 (vi) –Amortization of Discounts and Interest Expense.

Income Taxes

Income Taxes	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015
Income Tax Disclosure [Abstract]
Income Tax Disclosure [Text Block]	4. Income Taxes 2015 2014 Deferred Tax Assets / (Liabilities): Net operating and capital losses $ 10,944,000 $ 12,051,000 Un-deducted interest 823,000 - Other items 124,000 569,000 Reorganization costs 47,000 - Foreign exchange (gain) loss (127,000) (186,000) Financing costs 444,000 - Investment in GQM LLC (12,922,000) (12,922,000) Valuation allowance (12,255,000) (12,434,000) Deferred tax liabilities $ (12,922,000) $ (12,922,000) December December 31, 2014 December 31, 2015 (Restated) 31, 2013 Income tax (benefit) provision at Canadian statutory rate $ (1,733,000) $ (2,567,000) $ 509,000 Foreign income taxes at other than Canadian statutory rate (841,000) (638,000) (125,000) Change in fair value of derivative liability (867,000) (288,000) (1,271,000) Non-deductible accretion and other 839,000 80,000 204,000 Non-deductible stock-based compensation 41,000 67,000 119,000 Non-taxable effect on foreign exchange 407,000 175,000 (17,000) Permanent differences, other 50,000 1,458,000 - Non-controlling Interest 838,000 561,000 - Change in statutory rate - (322,000) (64,000) Adjustment due to change in estimates 1,265,000 - 72,000 Increase (decrease) in valuation allowance 1,000 1,474,000 573,000 Tax (benefit) provision $ - $ - $ - Included in the increase in valuation allowance is tax-affected $ 180,000 705,000 2,045,000 The Company evaluates its valuation allowance requirements based on projected future operations. When circumstances change and this causes a change in management’s judgment about the recoverability of deferred tax assets, the impact of the change on the valuation allowance is reflected in current income or loss. As management of the Company does not currently believe that the Company will receive the benefit of this asset, a valuation allowance equal to certain net deferred tax assets has been established at both December 31, 2015 and 2014. As at December 31, 2015, the Company had net operating loss carry-forwards available to reduce taxable income in future years as follows: Country Amount Expiration Dates United States – Federal $ 23,618,000 2018 - 2034 Canada (C$) $ 5,863,000 2026 - 2034 These consolidated financial statements do not reflect the potential effect on future income taxes of the application of these losses. The Company has evaluated its tax positions for the years ended December 31, 2015 and 2014 and determined that it has no uncertain tax positions requiring financial statement recognition. Under current federal and state income tax laws and regulations, GQM LLC, a multi-member limited liability company (“LLC”) is treated as a partnership for income tax reporting purposes and is generally not subject to income taxes. Additionally, at the LLC level no provision has been made for federal, state, or local income taxes on the results of operations generated by partnership activities; as such taxes are the responsibility of its Members.

Share Capital

Share Capital	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015
Equity [Abstract]
Stockholders' Equity Note Disclosure [Text Block]	5. Share Capital The Company’s common shares outstanding are no par value, voting shares with no preferences or rights attached to them. Common shares – 2015 In March 2015, the Company issued 150,000 151,428 Common shares - 2014 In May 2014, 300,000 300,000 0.21 63,000 160,592 In April 2014, 170,000 170,000 0.21 35,700 91,002 In February 2014, the Company issued 15,300 24,480 In February 2014, 60,000 60,000 0.21 12,721 32,118 Common shares - 2013 In March 2013, the Company issued 15,000 22,568 23,250 In April 2013, 200,000 200,000 0.26 50,674 52,000 132,011 In May 2013, 100,000 100,000 0.26 25,722 26,000 90,496 In September 2013, 20,000 20,000 0.26 5,017 5,200 24,724 In October 2013, 500,000 500,000 0.26 126,373 130,000 355,351 In October 2013, 300,000 300,000 74,677 78,000 238,623 In November 2013, 100,000 100,000 0.26 24,900 26,000 68,849 Stock options The Company has elected to use the Black-Scholes option pricing model to determine the fair value of stock options granted. In accordance with the accounting standard for employees, the compensation expense is amortized on a straight-line basis over the requisite service period, which approximates the vesting period. Compensation expense for stock options granted to non-employees is amortized over the contract services period or, if none exists, from the date of grant until the options vest. Compensation associated with unvested options granted to non-employees is re-measured on each balance sheet date using the Black-Scholes option pricing model. The following is a summary of stock option activity during the years ended December 31, 2015, 2014 and 2013: Weighted Average Exercise Shares Price per Share Options outstanding, December 31, 2012 1,800,000 $ 0.24 Options issued 800,000 $ 1.28 Options exercised (1,220,000) $ 0.21 Options outstanding, December 31, 2013 1,380,000 $ 0.87 Options exercisable, December 31, 2013 880,000 $ 0.68 Options outstanding, December 31, 2013 1,380,000 $ 0.87 Options exercised (530,000) $ 0.21 Options forfeited (100,000) $ 1.16 Options outstanding, December 31, 2014 750,000 $ 1.29 Options exercisable, December 31, 2014 750,000 $ 1.29 Options outstanding, December 31, 2014 750,000 $ 1.29 Options issued 570,000 $ 0.58 Options expired (250,000) $ 1.18 Options outstanding, December 31, 2015 1,070,000 $ 0.94 Options exercisable, December 31, 2015 976,667 $ 0.97 During the year ended December 31, 2015, the Company recognized $ 159,001 233,672 475,263 46,245 2015 2014 2013 Expected life years 5.00 - 5.00 Interest rate 0.75 % - 1.78 % Volatility 76.83 % - 98.25 % Dividend yield 0.00 % - 0.00 % As at December 31, 2015, the aggregate intrinsic value of the outstanding exercisable options was $Nil (2014 - $Nil; 2013 – $ 325,995 There were no stock options exercised during the year-ended December 31, 2015. The total intrinsic value of 530,000 1,220,000 754,513 325,158 Remaining Expiry Number Number Contractual Life Exercise Date Outstanding Exercisable (Years) Price June 3, 2018 50,000 50,000 2.42 $ 1.16 September 3, 2018 150,000 150,000 2.68 $ 1.59 September 18, 2018 300,000 300,000 2.72 $ 1.26 September 8, 2020 570,000 476,667 4.69 $ 0.58 Balance, December 31, 2015 1,070,000 976,667 3.75

Asset Retirement Obligations an

Asset Retirement Obligations and Financial Reclamation Assurance	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015
Asset Retirement Obligation Disclosure [Abstract]
Asset Retirement Obligation Disclosure [Text Block]	6. Asset Retirement Obligations and Financial Reclamation Assurance Financial Reclamation Assurance The Company is required to provide the Bureau of Land Management, the State Office of Mine Reclamation and Kern County with a revised reclamation cost estimate annually. The financial assurance is adjusted once the cost estimate is approved. The Company’s provision for reclamation of the property is estimated each year by an independent consulting engineer. This estimate, once approved by state and county authorities, forms the basis for a cash deposit of reclamation financial assurance. The reclamation assurance provided as at December 31, 2015 was $ 624,142 553,329 In addition to the above, the Company is required to obtain and maintain financial assurance for initiating and completing corrective action and remediation of a reasonably foreseeable release from the Project’s waste management units as required by the Lahontan Regional Water Quality Control Board (the “Regional Board”). The reclamation financial assurance estimate for 2015 is $ 278,240 Subsequent to year-end, the Company received approval to have the financial assurance amounts released and have the assurance replaced with surety bond agreements to cover the financial assurance. The Company pays a yearly premium. Asset Retirement Obligation The total asset retirement obligation as of December 31, 2015 is $ 978,453 624,142 The Company estimated its asset retirement obligations based on its understanding of the requirements to reclaim and clean-up its property based on its activities to date. During the year ended December 31, 2015, there was an increase of $ 354,311 71,892 December 31, 2015 December 31, 2014 Balance, beginning of the year $ 624,142 $ 552,250 Changes in cash flow estimates 354,311 71,892 Balance, end of the year $ 978,453 $ 624,142

Commitments and Contingencies

Commitments and Contingencies	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015
Commitments and Contingencies Disclosure [Abstract]
Commitments and Contingencies Disclosure [Text Block]	7. Commitments and Contingencies Property rent payments (Advance minimum royalties) The Company has acquired a number of mineral properties outright. It has acquired exclusive rights to explore, develop and mine other portions of the Project under various mining lease agreements with landowners. The Company is required to make property rent payments related to its mining lease agreements with landholders, in the form of advance minimum royalties. The total property rent payments for the year ended December 31, 2015 were $ 134,417 67,513 2,500 At that point, production royalties will commence. There are multiple third party landholders and the royalty amount due to each landholder over the life of the Project varies with each property. Finder’s fee The Company has agreed to issue 100,000 Management agreement In 2004, the Company entered into an agreement with the President of the Company to issue 300,000 150,000 150,000 300,000 1.00 300,000 1.50 150,000 151,428 In May 2015, the Company replaced the President’s management agreement with an employment agreement. In addition to the previously mentioned bonus shares issuable upon commencement of commercial production, included in the agreement with the President is a provision that if the President’s position is lost upon a change of control or within six months of a change of control the President would be entitled to a one-time payment equal to twice the annual salary C$ 438,000 On August 10, 2015, the President and Chief Executive Officer of the Company resigned. The Company and the former President and Chief Executive Officer entered into a separation agreement as of August 10, 2015, which provides for the termination of the employment agreement and an agreement for the Company to pay six month’s salary commencing from the date of termination. The separation agreement also confirms that as a result of the termination of the employment agreement, the 150,000 The Company hired current board member, Thomas M. Clay, to take over the position of Interim Chief Executive Officer with a yearly salary of $ 100,000 In 2013, the Company entered into an employment agreement with the Chief Financial Officer (“CFO”). Included in the agreement with the CFO is a provision that if the CFO’s position is lost upon a change of control or within six months of a change of control the CFO would be entitled to a one-time payment equal to twice the annual salary, C$ 300,000 Compliance with Environmental Regulations The Company’s exploration and development activities are subject to laws and regulations controlling not only the exploration and mining of mineral properties, but also the effect of such activities on the environment. Compliance with such laws and regulations may necessitate additional capital outlays or affect the economics of a project, and cause changes or delays in the Company’s activities. The Company may, from time to time, be involved in legal proceedings and claims that arise in the ordinary course of business. The Company believes that any adverse outcome of existing claims, individually or in the aggregate, would not have a material effect on its financial position, results of operations or cash flows. Mine Development Commitments As of December 31, 2015, GQM LLC has entered into contracts for construction totaling approximately $ 47.6 4.4 See Note 12 for further details on the mining equipment loans.

Related Party Transactions

Related Party Transactions	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015
Related Party Transactions [Abstract]
Related Party Transactions Disclosure [Text Block]	Related Party Transactions Except as noted elsewhere in these consolidated financial statements, related party transactions are disclosed as follows: (i) Consulting Fees For the year ended December 31, 2015, the Company paid $ 201,312 163,465 192,431 47,467 151,428 150,000 During the year ended December 31, 2015, the Company paid a total of $ 107,327 150,199 35,484 . (ii) Convertible Debentures On July 26, 2013, the Company entered into agreements to issue convertible debentures for aggregate proceeds of C$ 10,000,000 9,710,603 2 1.03 A total of C$ 7,500,000 10,049 The conversion feature of the convertible debentures meet the definition of a derivative liability instrument because the conversion feature is denominated in a currency other than the Company’s functional currency as well as the fact the exercise price is not a fixed price as described above. Therefore, the conversion feature does not meet the “fixed-for-fixed” criteria outlined in ASC 815-40-15. As a result, the conversion feature of the notes was required to be recorded as a derivative liability recorded at fair value and marked-to-market each period with the changes in fair value each period being charged or credited to income or loss. On July 24, 2015, the Company repaid its C$ 10.0 7.7 200,000 153,500 The fair value of the derivative liability related to the conversion feature as at December 31, 2015 is $Nil (December 31, 2014 - $ 1,829,770 2015 2014 Risk-free interest rate 0.49% - 0.50 % 1.00% - 1.09 % Expected life of derivative liability 0.07 - 0.32 years 0.57 - 1.32 years Expected volatility 49.36% - 77.00 % 73.03% - 98.21 % Dividend rate 0.00 % 0.00 % December 31, 2015 December 31, 2014 Balance, beginning of the period $ 1,829,770 $ 2,833,987 Change in fair value of derivative liability including foreign exchange (1,829,770) (1,004,217) Balance, end of the period $ - $ 1,829,770 December 31, 2015 December 31, 2014 Balance, beginning of the period $ 6,649,967 $ 4,642,620 Amortization of discount 1,852,754 2,510,611 Foreign exchange (827,721) (503,264) Repayment of convertible debenture (7,675,000) - Balance, end of the period $ - $ 6,649,967 During the year ended December 31, 2015, in addition to the amortization of the discount on the convertible debenture, the Company incurred interest expense of $ 94,907 181,479 2 1,947,661 2,692,090 70,721 (iii) Notes Payable On January 1, 2014, the Company entered into an agreement to secure a $ 10,000,000 7,500,000 5 The January 2014 Loan was repaid on a date that is less than 183 days before the maturity date. As a result, the Company paid the Lenders an additional charge in the amount that is equivalent to 5 5 7,500,000 375,000 375,000 The remaining balance of the loan, $ 2,500,000 125,000 125,000 500,000 500,000 On December 31, 2014 the Company also entered into a new loan (the “December 2014 Loan”) with the same parties for an amount of $ 12,500,000 July 1, 2015 10 50 1,000,000 750,000 250,000 90,916 118,695 On June 8, 2015, the Company amended the December 2014 Loan to extend the maturity to December 8, 2016 12,500,000 37,500,000 10,000,000 June 8, 2020 0.95 1,500,000 46,408 December 31, 2015 December 31, 2014 Balance, beginning of the period $ 13,881,305 $ - Fair value at inception, notes payable 33,497,277 22,500,000 Repayment of loans (2,500,000) (7,500,000) Accretion of financing and legal fees 967,156 - Accretion of discount on the June Loan 1,374,228 - Extinguishment of the December 2014 Loan (12,500,000) - Loss on extinguishment of debt 151,539 - Interest payable transferred to principal balance of the June 2015 Loan 1,181,507 - Capitalized financing fee and legal fees - (1,118,695) Balance, end of the period 36,053,012 $ 13,881,305 Interest payable relating to the June 2015 Loan as at December 31, 2015 was $ 969,645 250,000 125,000 125,000 (iv) Share Purchase Warrants On June 8, 2015 the Company issued 10,000,000 June 8, 2020 0.95 The share purchase warrants meet the definition of a derivative liability instrument as the exercise price is not a fixed price as described above. Therefore, the settlement feature does not meet the “fixed-for-fixed” criteria outlined in ASC 815-40-15. The fair value of the derivative liability related to the share purchase warrants as at December 31, 2015 is $ 2,498,269 2015 2014 Risk-free interest rate 0.73% - 1.02 % - Expected life of derivative liability 4.44 - 5 years - Expected volatility 72.29% - 76.11 % - Dividend rate 0.00 % - December 31, 2015 December 31, 2014 Balance, beginning of the period $ - $ - Fair value at inception 4,002,723 - Change in fair value (1,504,454) - Balance, end of the period $ 2,498,269 $ - (v) Advance In July 2014, GQM Inc. entered into a $ 10,000,000 6,500,000 3,500,000 10.0 110,000,000 10,000,000 209,607 73,632 45,264 Amortization of Discounts and Interest Expense Year Ended Year Ended Year Ended Interest expense related to the convertible debentures $ 94,907 $ 181,479 $ - Interest expense related to the January 2014 Loan - 1,000,000 - Interest expense related to the December 2014 Loan 547,945 - - Interest expense related to the June 2015 Loan 2,151,152 - - Interest expense related to Komatsu Financial loans 281,958 3,352 - Accretion of debt discount on the convertible debentures 1,852,754 2,510,611 888,026 Interest on Gauss advance - 209,607 Accretion of the December 2014 Loan financing fees 967,155 - Accretion of the June 2015 Loan discount 1,374,228 - Accretion of discount and interest on loan and convertible debentures $ 7,270,099 $ 3,905,049 $ 888,026 The Company’s loans were contracted to fund significant development costs. Year Ended Year Ended Year Ended Accretion of discounts and interest on loan, advance and convertible debenture $ 7,270,099 $ 3,905,049 $ 888,026 Less: Interest costs capitalized (2,762,831) (2,412,015) - Accretion of discounts and interest expensed $ 4,507,268 $ 1,493,034 $ 888,026 (vii) Joint Venture Transaction On September 15, 2014, the Company closed the Joint Venture Transaction with Gauss resulting in both parties owning a 50 50 110 50 Gauss is a funding vehicle owned by entities controlled by Leucadia National Corporation (NYSE: LUK) (“Leucadia”) and certain members of the Clay family, a shareholder group which collectively owned approximately 27% of the issued and outstanding shares of Golden Queen (the “Clay Group”) at the time of the transaction. Gauss is owned 70.51% by Gauss Holdings LLC (“Gauss Holdings”, Leucadia’s investment entity) and 29.49% by Auvergne LLC (“Auvergne”, the Clay Group’s investment entity). Pursuant to the transaction, Leucadia was paid a transaction fee of $2,000,000 and $275,000 was paid to Auvergne through GQM LLC in 2014. The Company has adopted an accounting policy of expensing these transaction costs. Variable Interest Entity In accordance with ASC 810-10-30, the Company has determined that GQM LLC meets the definition of a VIE and that the Company is part of a related party group that, in its entirety, would meet the definition of a primary beneficiary. Although no individual variable interest holder individually meets the definition of a primary beneficiary in the absence of the related party group, Golden Queen has determined it is considered the member of the related party group most closely associated with GQM LLC. As a result, the Company has consolidated 100 50 December 31, 2015 December 31, 2014 Assets, GQM LLC $ 158,209,916 $ 118,937,371 Liabilities, GQM LLC (22,591,211) (4,769,144) Net assets, GQM LLC $ 135,618,705 $ 114,168,227 Included in the assets above, is $ 31,531,853 83,282,403 Non-Controlling Interest In accordance with ASC 810, the Company has presented Gauss’ ownership in GQM LLC as a non-controlling interest amount on the balance sheet within the equity section. However, the Amended and Restated Limited Liability Company Agreement (“LLC Agreement”) contains terms within Section 12.5 that provides for the exit from the investment in GQM LLC for an initial member whose interest in GQM LLC becomes less than 20 Pursuant to Section 12.5, if a member becomes less than a 20% interest holder, its remaining unit interest will (ultimately) be terminated through one of three events at the non-diluted member’s option within 60 days of the diluted member’s interest dropping below 20% (the “triggering event”): a. Through conversion to a net smelter royalty (“NSR”) (in which case the conversion ratio is based on a pro rata percentage, determined on a linear basis, based on the following: 0 20 0 5 b. Through a buy-out (at fair value) by the non-diluted member; or c. Through a sale process by which the diluted member’s interest is sold ⋅ If such sale process does not result in a binding offer acceptable to the non-diluted member within six months after the election by the non-diluted member, the sale process terminates and the non-diluted member has 15 days to choose between (a) and (b). If the non-diluted member does not make an election pursuant to the above within 60 days, the diluted member may choose (a) or (b) above. If no election is made by the diluted member, option (a) is deemed to have been elected. This clause in the Joint Venture Transaction constitutes contingent redeemable equity as outlined in Accounting Series Release No. 268 (“ASR 268”) and has been classified as temporary equity. On initial recognition the amount of the temporary equity is calculated using the guidance that specifies that the initial measurement of redeemable instruments should be the carrying value. The amount allocated to temporary equity and the permanent equity on initial recognition is shown below. Temporary equity represents the amount of redeemable equity within Gauss’ ownership interest in the net assets of GQM LLC. 60 September 15, 2014 Net assets, GQM LLC before Joint Venture Transaction $ 16,973,184 Investment by Gauss 110,000,000 Net assets, GQM LLC after Joint Venture Transaction 126,973,184 Gauss’ ownership percentage 50 % Net assets of GQM LLC attributable to Gauss $ 63,486,592 Allocation of non-controlling interest between permanent equity and temporary equity: Permanent non-controlling interest (60% of total non-controlling interest) $ 38,091,955 Temporary non-controlling interest (40% of total non-controlling interest) $ 25,394,637 Subsequent to the initial transaction, the carrying value of the non-controlling interest will be adjusted for net income and loss, distributions and contributions pursuant to ASC 810-10 based on the same percentage allocation used to calculate the initial book value of temporary equity. December 31, 2015 December 31, 2014 Net and comprehensive loss in GQM LLC $ (3,549,522) $ (2,804,957) Non-controlling interest percentage 50 % 50 % Net and comprehensive loss attributable to non-controlling interest (1,774,761) (1,402,479) Net and comprehensive loss attributable to permanent non-controlling interest $ (1,064,857) $ (841,487) Net and comprehensive loss attributable to temporary non-controlling interest $ (709,904) $ (560,992) Permanent Non- Temporary Non- Controlling Interest Controlling Interest Carrying value of non-controlling interest, September 15, 2014 $ 38,091,955 $ 25,394,637 Distributions to non-controlling interest (3,000,000) (2,000,000) Net and comprehensive loss for the period (841,487) (560,992) Carrying value of non-controlling interest , December 31, 2014 $ 34,250,468 $ 22,833,645 Permanent Non- Temporary Non- Carrying value of non-controlling interest, December 31, 2014 $ 34,250,468 $ 22,833,645 Capital contribution 7,500,000 5,000,000 Net and comprehensive loss for the period (1,064,857) (709,904) Carrying value of non-controlling interest , December 31 2015 $ 40,685,611 $ 27,123,741 Dilution of Interest in Subsidiary As a result of the Joint Venture Transaction, the Company’s interest in GQM LLC was diluted from 100 50 September 15, 2014 Investment by Gauss $ 110,000,000 Less: Initial carrying value of permanent equity (38,091,955) Initial carrying value of temporary equity (25,394,637) Deferred tax liability resulting from dilution gain (Notes 4 and 15) (12,922,000) Effect of dilution of subsidiary recorded to APIC $ 33,591,408 The deferred tax liability resulted from the increase in the book value over tax value of the investment in GQM LLC. Management Agreement GQM LLC is managed by a board of managers comprising an equal number of representatives of each of Gauss and GQM Holdings. The initial officers of GQM LLC were H. Lutz Klingmann as Chief Executive Officer, and Andrée St-Germain as Chief Financial Officer. During fiscal 2015, Robert C. Walish Jr. was appointed to replace Mr. Klingmann as Chief Executive Officer of GQM LLC. Bryan A. Coates was appointed to the GQM LLC Board of Managers as a nominee of the Company, replacing Mr. Klingmann. As long as a member of the Clay family holds greater that 25 Capital Contribution Agreement Pursuant to the Joint Venture Transaction, GQM Holdings’ made a single capital contribution to GQM LLC of $ 12.5 50 Standby Commitment In 2014, Golden Queen also entered into a backstop guarantee agreement with Gauss (the “Backstop Agreement”) whereby, if the Company conducts a rights offering, Gauss has agreed to purchase, upon the terms set forth in the Backstop Agreement, any common shares which have not been acquired pursuant to the exercise of rights under the Rights Offering at a purchase price to be determined but not to exceed $ 1.10 45 2,250,000 731,250 The Transaction Agreement and Backstop Agreement contemplated that the Company would file a registration statement in connection with the rights offering by October 15, 2014. The Company has decided not to proceed with a rights offering, and as a result the standby commitment has expired.

Supplementary Disclosures of Ca

Supplementary Disclosures of Cash Flow Information	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015
Supplemental Cash Flow Elements [Abstract]
Cash Flow, Supplemental Disclosures [Text Block]	9. Supplementary Disclosures of Cash Flow Information December 31, 2015 December 31, 2014 Cash paid during year for: Interest $ 1,214,255 $ 1,145,786 Income taxes $ - $ - Non-cash financing and investing activities: Common shares issued for mineral property $ - $ 24,480 Financing fee and legal fees related to short term debt capitalized $ - $ 1,118,695 Asset retirement costs charged to mineral property interests $ 354,311 $ 71,892 Mobile equipment acquired through issuance of debt $ 19,367,240 $ 926,540 Property, plant, equipment and mineral interests expenditures included in accounts payable $ 2,857,646 $ 3,097,053 Non-cash interest cost capitalized to mineral property interests $ 2,762,831 $ 2,412,015 Non-cash amortization of discount and interest expense $ 4,225,311 $ 1,493,034 Interest payable converted to principal balance on notes $ 1,181,507 $ -

Financial Instruments

Financial Instruments	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015
Fair Value Disclosures [Abstract]
Fair Value Disclosures [Text Block]	Financial Instruments Fair Value Measurements All financial assets and financial liabilities are recorded at fair value on initial recognition. Transaction costs are expensed when they are incurred, unless they are directly attributable to the acquisition of qualifying assets, in which case they are added to the costs of those assets until such time as the assets are substantially ready for their intended use or sale. Level 1 Unadjusted quoted prices in active markets that are accessible at the measurement date for identical, unrestricted assets or liabilities; Level 2 Quoted prices in markets that are not active, or inputs that are observable, either directly or indirectly, for substantially the full term of the asset or liability; Level 3 Prices or valuation techniques that require inputs that are both significant to the fair value measurement and unobservable (supported by little or no market activity). December 31, 2015 Total Level 1 Level 2 Level 3 Liabilities: Share purchase warrants (Note 8) $ 2,498,269 $ - $ 2,498,269 $ - $ 2,498,269 $ - $ 2,498,269 $ - December 31. 2014 Total Level 1 Level 2 Level 3 Liabilities: Derivative liability (Note 8) $ 1,829,770 $ - $ 1,829,770 $ - $ 1,829,770 $ - $ 1,829,770 $ - Under fair value accounting, assets and liabilities are classified in their entirety based on the lowest level of input that is significant to the fair value measurement. The fair value measurement of the financial instruments above use observable inputs in option price models such as the binomial and the black-scholes valuation models. Credit Risk Credit risk is the risk that the counterparty to a financial instrument will cause a financial loss for the Company by failing to discharge its obligations. To mitigate exposure to credit risk on financial assets the Company has established policies to ensure liquidity of funds and ensure counterparties demonstrate minimum acceptable credit worthiness. The Company maintains its US Dollar and Canadian Dollar cash in bank accounts with major financial institutions with high credit standings. Cash deposits held in the United States are insured by the FDIC for up to $ 250,000 100,000 Certain United States and Canadian bank accounts held by the Company exceed these federally insured limits or are uninsured as they relate to US Dollar deposits held in Canadian financial institutions. As of December 31, 2015 and 2014, the Company’s cash balances held in United States and Canadian financial institutions include $ 37,587,311 91,407,644 Interest Rate Risk The Company holds 63 1 Foreign Currency Exchange Risk Certain purchases of corporate overhead expenditures are denominated in Canadian Dollar. As a result, currency exchange fluctuations may impact the costs of our operations. Specifically, the appreciation of the Canadian Dollar against the US Dollar may result in an increase in the Canadian operating expenses in US dollar terms. As of December 31, 2015, the Company maintained the majority of its cash balance in US Dollar. The Company currently does not engage in any currency hedging activities. Commodity Price Risk The Company’s primary business activity is the development of the open pit, gold and silver, heap leach project on the Project. Decreases in the price of either of these metals from current levels has the potential to negatively impact the Company’s ability to secure significant additional financing required to develop the Project into an operating mine and/or the future viability of the Project

Earnings (Loss) Per Share

Earnings (Loss) Per Share	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015
Earnings Per Share [Abstract]
Earnings Per Share [Text Block]	Earnings (Loss) Per Share Year Ended Year Ended Year Ended Numerator: Net income (loss) – numerator for basic EPS $ (5,461,205) $ (8,469,204) $ 1,978,014 Amortization of discount - - 888,026 Change in derivative liability – Convertible debentures - - (2,907,533) Change in derivative – Stock options - - (767,419) Numerator for diluted EPS $ (5,461,205) $ (8,469,204) $ (808,912) Year Ended Year Ended Year Ended Denominator: Denominator for basic EPS 99,893,341 99,611,278 98,390,561 Effect of dilutive securities: Employee stock options - - 132,800 Convertible debenture - - 4,214,232 Denominator for diluted EPS 99,893,341 99,611,278 102,737,593 Basic earnings(loss) per share (0.05) $ (0.09) $ 0.02 Diluted loss per share (0.05) $ (0.09) $ (0.01) For the year ended December 31, 2015, 1,070,000 750,000 and 10,000,000

Loan Payable

Loan Payable	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015
Debt Disclosure [Abstract]
Debt Disclosure [Text Block]	12. Loan Payable During the year ended December 31, 2015, the Company acquired (19) nineteen (2014 – (2) two) pieces of mining equipment from Komatsu through financing agreements. The Company also acquired a mining drill through a financing agreement with Atlas Copco. December 31, 2015 December 31, 2014 Balance, beginning of year $ 913,132 $ - Additions 23,155,510 1,106,521 Down payments, taxes and principal repayments (5,695,819) (193,389) Balance, end of year $ 18,372,823 $ 913,132 December 31, 2015 December 31, 2014 Total acquisition costs $ 24,262,031 $ 1,106,521 Interest rates 0.00% - 4.40% 1.80% - 2.99% Monthly payments $4,669 - $33,906 $5,268 - $15,109 Average remaining life (Years) 3.46 3.89 Short-term portion 4,942,716 222,839 Long-term portion $ 13,430,107 $ 690,293 For the year ended December 31, 2015, the Company made total down payments of $ 3,788,070 179,981 10 The following table outlines the principal payments to be made for each of the remaining years: Year Principal Payments 2016 $ 4,942,716 2017 $ 5,126,206 2018 $ 5,248,707 2019 $ 3,055,194 Total $ 18,372,823

Comparative Figures

Comparative Figures	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015
Restatement of Prior Year Income [Abstract]
Restatement Of Prior Year Income [Text Block]	Comparative Figures Certain comparative figures have been reclassified to conform to the financial statement presentation adopted for the current year. The reclassifications had no impact on the net loss, deficit accumulated or the cash flows as previously reported. Also see Note 15 for restatement of certain 2014 balances.

Subsequent Events

Subsequent Events	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015
Subsequent Events [Abstract]
Subsequent Events [Text Block]	Subsequent Events No subsequent events have been identified up to the date of March 15, 2016, the date the financial statements were approved, other than denoted below. On January 1 st 974,986 39,656,493 Subsequent to December 31, 2015, GQM LLC took possession of a used crane, valued at $ 0.4 10 0.06 0.3 3.90 In January 2016 the company entered into $ 2.1

Prior Periods Financial Restate

Prior Periods Financial Restatements	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015
Accounting Changes and Error Corrections [Abstract]
Accounting Changes and Error Corrections [Text Block]	15. Prior Periods Financial Restatements During the preparation of the deferred tax calculations for 2015 the Company found an accounting error in the calculation of the deferred income taxes for the year ended December 31, 2014. The accounting error related to the recognition of a deferred tax liability resulting from the dilution gain recorded in additional paid-in capital from the JV transaction (Note 8(vii)). The impact of the error on the financial statements for the year ended December 31, 2014, the first three quarters of 2015 and the third quarter of 2014 are presented below. There was no impact on the Company’s Consolidated Statements of Income/(Loss) and Comprehensive Income/(Loss) or the Consolidated Statement of Cash Flows. As Previously Reported As Restated Liabilities: Deferred tax liability $ - $ 12,922,000 Total liabilities $ 27,778,513 $ 40,700,513 Shareholders’ Equity: Additional paid-in capital $ 56,390,510 $ 43,468,510 Total shareholders’ equity attributable to GQM Ltd. $ 44,654,709 $ 31,732,709 Total shareholders’ equity $ 78,905,177 $ 65,983,177 There was no impact on the Company’s Consolidated Statements of Income/(Loss) and Comprehensive Income/(Loss) or the Consolidated Statement of Cash Flows. September 30, 2014 March 31, 2015 As Previously Reported As Restated As Previously Reported As Restated Liabilities: Deferred tax liability $ - $ 12,922,000 $ - $ 12,922,000 Total liabilities $ 23,138,376 $ 36,060,376 $ 31,358,690 $ 44,280,690 Shareholders’ Equity: Additional paid-in capital $ 56,436,755 $ 43,514,755 $ 56,390,510 $ 43,468,510 Total shareholders’ equity attributable to GQM Ltd. $ 43,157,822 $ 30,235,822 $ 43,369,950 $ 30,447,950 Total shareholders’ equity $ 77,553,630 $ 64,631,630 $ 77,448,394 $ 64,526,394 June 30, 2015 September 30, 2015 As Previously Reported As Restated As Previously Reported As Restated Liabilities: Deferred tax liability $ - $ 12,922,000 $ - $ 12,922,000 Total liabilities $ 59,791,117 $ 72,713,117 $ 57,891,299 $ 70,813,299 Shareholders’ Equity: Additional paid-in capital $ 56,390,510 $ 43,468,510 $ 56,545,713 $ 43,623,713 Total shareholders’ equity attributable to GQM Ltd. $ 41,990,686 $ 29,068,686 $ 40,221,722 $ 27,299,722 Total shareholders’ equity $ 83,141,709 $ 70,219,709 $ 81,205,389 $ 68,283,389

GQM Ltd. Non-Consolidated Infor

GQM Ltd. Non-Consolidated Information	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015
Condensed Financial Information of Parent Company Only Disclosure [Abstract]
Condensed Financial Information of Parent Company Only Disclosure [Text Block]	GQM Ltd. Non-Consolidated Information The following condensed unconsolidated financial information represents the financial information of GQM Ltd. The information is presented in accordance with the requirements of Rule 12-04 under the SEC’s Regulation S-X. Investments in the Company’s subsidiaries are accounted for under the equity method. In addition, disclosure requirements of Rule 12-04 of Regulation S-X regarding material contingencies, long-term obligations, and guarantees are the same as those included in Note 8(ii), Note8(iii) and Note 12. The Company has no material contingencies. (i) Non-Consolidated Balance Sheets December 31, December 31, 2015 2014 Assets Current assets: Cash $ 5,002,974 $ 4,973,955 Receivables 54,803 129,965 Prepaid expenses and other current assets 43,499 56,122 Total current assets 5,101,276 5,160,042 Mineral interests 5,129,582 2,366,751 Investment in subsidiaries 28,162,449 32,661,592 Due from subsidiaries 27,777,387 14,651,807 Total Assets $ 66,170,694 $ 54,840,192 Liabilities and Shareholders’ Equity Liabilities: Accounts payable and accrued liabilities $ 67,835 $ 175,720 Interest payable 969,645 320,721 Financing fee payable - 250,000 Notes payable 36,053,012 13,881,305 Derivative liability - Warrants 2,498,269 - Derivative liability–Convertible debentures - 1,829,770 Convertible debenture - 6,649,967 Total Liabilities 39,588,761 23,107,483 Shareholders’ Equity Common shares, no par value, unlimited shares authorized (2014 -unlimited); 99,928,683 (2014 – 99,778,683) shares issued and outstanding 62,860,443 62,709,015 Additional paid-in capital 43,627,511 43,468,510 Deficit accumulated (79,906,021) (74,444,816) Total Shareholders’ Equity 26,581,933 31,732,709 Total Liabilities and Shareholders’ Equity $ 66,170,694 $ 54,840,192 ( Non-Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income (Loss) Year Ended Year Ended Year Ended General and administrative expenses $ (596,583) $ (2,998,824) $ (2,002,240) Change in fair value of derivative liability including change in foreign exchange 3,334,224 1,004,217 5,385,660 2,737,641 (1,994,607) 3,383,420 Other income (expenses) Interest expense (4,225,311) (1,325,339) (888,026) Loss on extinguishment of debt (151,539) - - Financing fee (1,500,000) - - Commitment fee - (2,250,000) - Interest income 2,177,147 1,458,932 448,058 Net income (loss) before equity in earnings (losses) of subsidiaries (962,062) (4,111,014) 2,943,452 Equity in earnings (losses) of subsidiaries (4,499,143) (4,358,190) (965,438) Net and comprehensive income (loss) for the year $ (5,461,205) $ (8,469,204) $ 1,978,014 (iii) Non-Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows Year Ended Year Ended Year Ended Operating activities: Net income (loss) for the year $ (5,461,205) $ (8,469,204) $ 1,978,014 Adjustments to reconcile net income (loss) to cash used in operating activities: Equity in losses (earnings) of subsidiaries 4,499,143 4,358,190 965,438 Amortization of debt discount and interest accrual 4,225,311 1,534,946 888,026 Change in fair value of derivative liabilities including change in foreign exchange (3,334,224) (1,004,217) (5,385,660) Stock-based compensation 159,001 233,672 475,263 Non-cash consulting expense 151,428 - - Financing fee related to long-term debt 1,500,000 - - Loss on extinguishment of debt 151,539 - - Foreign exchange (839,849) (504,539) (137,790) Changes in assets and liabilities: Receivables 75,162 (116,178) 3,184 Prepaid expenses and other current assets 12,623 (27,165) 26,311 Accounts payable and accrued liabilities (107,885) (177,278) 239,341 Interest payable (951,445) (1,145,786) - Cash used in operating activities 79,599 (5,317,559) (947,873) Investment activities: Investment in subsidiaries - - (2,418,217) Advances to subsidiaries (13,125,580) (8,936,581) (5,668,178) Cash used in investing activities (13,125,580) (8,936,581) (8,086,395) Financing activities: Proceeds from convertible debt - - 9,710,603 Borrowing under long-term debt 25,000,000 32,500,000 - Repayment of short-term debt (2,500,000) (17,500,000) - Financing fees related to short-term debt (1,500,000) (868,695) - Repayment of convertible debentures (7,675,000) - - Financing fees related to short-term debt capitalized to the loan (250,000) - - Issuance of common shares upon exercise of stock options - 111,421 307,363 Cash provided by financing activities 13,075,000 14,242,726 10,017,966 Net change in cash 29,019 (11,414) 983,698 Cash, Beginning balance 4,973,955 4,985,369 4,001,671 Cash, Ending balance $ 5,002,974 $ 4,973,955 $ 4,985,369

Business Description and Acco24

Business Description and Accounting Policies (Policies)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015
Accounting Policies [Abstract]
Consolidation, Policy [Policy Text Block]	Nature of Business 50 2015 Principles of Consolidation The Company consolidates all entities in which it can vote a majority of the outstanding voting stock. In addition, it consolidates entities which meet the definition of a variable interest entity for which it is the primary beneficiary. The primary beneficiary is the party who has the power to direct the activities of a variable interest entity that most significantly impact the entity’s economic performance and who has an obligation to absorb losses of the entity or a right to receive benefits from the entity that could potentially be significant to the entity. We consider special allocations of cash flows and preferences, if any, to determine amounts allocable to non-controlling interests. All intercompany transactions and balances are eliminated in consolidation. These consolidated financial statements include the accounts of Golden Queen, a British Columbia corporation, its wholly-owned subsidiary, GQM Holdings, a US (State of California) corporation, and GQM LLC, a limited liability company in which Golden Queen has a 50 Generally Accepted Accounting Principles (“GAAP”) The consolidated financial statements have been prepared in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States.
Cash and Cash Equivalents, Policy [Policy Text Block]	Cash and Cash Equivalents For purposes of balance sheet classification and the statements of cash flows, the Company considers all highly liquid investments purchased with an original maturity of three months or less to be cash equivalents. As at December 31, 2015 and 2014, the Company did not have any cash equivalents. The Company places its cash and cash equivalents with high quality financial institutions. At times, such cash deposits may be in excess of Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation insurance limits. To date, the Company has not experienced a loss or lack of access to its cash and cash equivalents. However, no assurance can be provided that access to the Company’s cash and cash equivalents will not be impacted by adverse economic conditions in the financial markets.
Inventory, Policy [Policy Text Block]	Inventory Inventories include stockpiles, in-process inventory, doré, and operating materials and supplies. The classification of inventory is determined by the stage at which the ore is in the production process. As at December 31, 2015, the Company had stockpiles, operating materials, supplies and spare parts. All inventories are stated at the lower of cost or market, with cost being determined using a weighted average cost method. Dore inventory includes product at the mine site. Dore inventory costs include direct labor, materials, depreciation, depletion and amortization as well as overhead costs relating to mining activities.
Ore on Heap Leach Pad [Policy Text Block]	Ore on Heap Leach Pad The heap leach process extracts silver and gold by placing ore on an impermeable pad and applying a diluted cyanide solution that dissolves a portion of the contained silver and gold, which are then recovered in metallurgical processes. As at December 31, 2015, the Company had placed a small amount of ore on the heap leach pad but had not started placing leaching solution on the ore. The procedures and policies discussed below that pertain to more advanced stages will be applied once that specific process has been reached. The Company uses several integrated steps to scientifically measure the metal content of ore placed on the leach pads. As the ore body is drilled in preparation for the blasting process, samples are taken of the drill residue which are assayed to determine estimated quantities of contained metal. The Company then processes the ore through crushing facilities where the output is weighed and sampled for assaying. The Company weighs the ore using a belt mounted weightometer to accurately measure the quantity of ore placed on the leach pad. The crushed ore is then transported to the leach pad for application of the leaching solution. As the leach solution is collected from the leach pads, it is continuously sampled for assaying. The quantity of leach solution is measured by flow meters throughout the leaching and precipitation process. After precipitation, the product is converted to doré, which is the final product produced by the mine. The inventory is stated at lower of cost or market, with cost being determined using a weighted average cost method. The historical cost of the metal that is expected to be extracted within twelve months is classified as current and the historical cost of metals contained within the broken ore that is expected to be extracted beyond twelve months is classified as non-current. Ore on leach pad is valued based on actual production costs incurred to produce and place ore on the leach pad, less costs allocated to minerals recovered through the leach process. The estimate of both the ultimate recovery expected over time and the quantity of metal that may be extracted relative to the time the leach process occurs requires the use of estimates, which are inherently inaccurate due to the nature of the leaching process. The quantities of metal contained in the ore are based upon actual weights and assay analysis. The rate at which the leach process extracts gold and silver from the crushed ore is based upon metallurgical test column estimates. The assumptions that will be used by the Company to measure metal content during each stage of the inventory conversion process includes estimated recovery rates based on laboratory testing and assaying. The Company will periodically review its estimates compared to actual experience and revise its estimates when appropriate. As operations begin, the Company will not have any actual experience as a basis to compare estimates to and therefore will begin comparing estimates to actual results once the Company’s actual experiences have a sufficiently predictive quality. Variations between actual and estimated quantities resulting from changes in assumptions and estimates that do not result in write-downs to net realizable value are accounted for on a prospective basis.
Property, Plant and Equipment, Policy [Policy Text Block]	Property, Plant, Equipment and Mineral Interests Costs related to the development of our mineral reserves are capitalized when it has been determined an ore body can be economically developed. An ore body is determined to be economically minable based on proven and probable reserves and when appropriate permits are in place. Major mine development expenditures are capitalized, including primary development costs such as costs of building access roads, heap leach pads, processing facilities, and infrastructure development. The Company also capitalizes additional development expenditures that are directly related to the development of the mine. Drilling and related costs are classified as additional development expenditures, are charged to operations as incurred, or capitalized, based on the following criteria: · Whether or not the costs are incurred to further define mineralization at and adjacent to existing reserve areas or intended to assist with mine planning within a reserve area; · Whether or not the drilling costs relate to an ore body that has been determined to be commercially mineable, and a decision has been made to put the ore body into commercial production; and · Whether or not at the time that the cost is incurred, the expenditure: (a) embodies a probable future benefit that involves a capacity, singly or in combination, with other assets to contribute directly or indirectly to future net cash inflows, (b) we can obtain the benefit and control others’ access to it, and (c) the transaction or event giving rise to our right to or control of the benefit has already occurred. If all of these criteria are met, drilling and related costs are capitalized. Drilling costs not meeting all of these criteria are expensed as incurred. The following factors are considered in determining whether or not the criteria listed above have been met, and capitalization of drilling costs is appropriate: · Completion of a favourable economic study and mine plan for the ore body targeted; · Authorization of development of the ore body by management and/or the Board of Directors; and · All permitting and/or contractual requirements necessary for us to have the right to or control of the future benefit from the targeted ore body have been met. Property, plant, equipment and mineral interests are stated at the lower of cost or net realizable value less accumulated depreciation. Land Not depreciated Mineral property interests and claims Units-of-production Mine development Units-of-production Mine equipment 5 – 10 years Buildings 12 – 30 years Leasehold improvements 30 years Vehicles 5 – 10 years Computer equipment and software 3 years Asset retirements cost Units-of-production Capitalized interest Units-of-production The Company has instituted a policy that all property, plant, and equipment, not related to the actual mine development, acquired for an amount over $ 3,000 Once production has commenced, the capitalization of certain mine construction costs ceases and expenditures are either variable production costs as a component of inventory or expensed as incurred. Exceptions include costs incurred for additions or improvements to property, plant, equipment and mineral interests. If mineral interests are subsequently abandoned or impaired, any capitalized costs will be charged to the Consolidated Statements of Income (Loss) and Comprehensive Income (Loss) for that period. A mine construction project is considered to have entered the production stage when the mine construction assets are available for use. At this point the Company will begin depletion of its assets as outlined in the above breakdown. In determining whether mine construction assets are considered available for use, the criteria considered include, but are not limited to, the following: · Completion of a reasonable period of testing mine plant and equipment; · Ability to produce minerals in saleable form (within specifications); and · Ability to sustain ongoing production of minerals. As at December 31, 2015, the Project was not considered to be in commercial production
Capitalization of Internal Costs, Policy [Policy Text Block]	Capitalized Interest For significant exploration and development projects, interest is capitalized as part of the historical cost of developing and constructing assets in accordance with ASC 835-20 ("capitalization of interest"). Interest is capitalized until the asset is ready for service. Capitalized interest is determined by multiplying the Company’s weighted-average borrowing cost on general debt by the average amount of qualifying costs incurred. Once an asset subject to interest capitalization is completed and placed in service, the associated capitalized interest is expensed through depletion or impairment. See Note 8(vi) - Amortization of Discount and Interest Expense.
Impairment or Disposal of Long-Lived Assets, Policy [Policy Text Block]	Valuation of Long-lived Assets The Company reviews and evaluates its long-lived assets for impairment when events or changes in circumstances indicate that the related carrying amounts may not be recoverable. Asset impairment is considered to exist if the total estimated undiscounted pre-tax future cash flows are less than the carrying amount of the asset. In estimating future cash flows, assets are grouped at the lowest level for which there is identifiable cash flows that are largely independent of future cash flows from other asset groups. An impairment loss is measured and recorded based on discounted estimated future cash flows. Future cash flows are estimated based on estimated quantities of recoverable minerals, expected silver and gold prices (considering current and historical prices, trends and related factors), production levels, operating costs, capital requirements and reclamation costs, all based on life-of mine plans. Existing proven and probable reserves are included when determining the fair value of mine site asset groups at acquisition and, subsequently, in determining whether the assets are impaired. The term “recoverable minerals” refers to the estimated amount of silver and gold that will be obtained after taking into account losses during ore processing and treatment. Estimates of recoverable minerals from exploration stage mineral interests are risk adjusted based on management’s relative confidence in such materials. The ability to achieve the estimated quantities of recoverable minerals from exploration stage mineral interests involves further risks in addition to those risk factors applicable to mineral interests where proven and probable reserves have been identified, due to the lower level of confidence that the identified mineralized material could ultimately be mined economically. Assets classified as exploration potential have the highest level of risk that the carrying value of the asset can be ultimately realized, due to the still lower level of geological confidence and economic modeling. Silver and gold prices are volatile and affected by many factors beyond the Company’s control, including prevailing interest rates and returns on other asset classes, expectations regarding inflation, speculation, currency values, governmental decisions regarding precious metals stockpiles, global and regional demand and production, political and economic conditions and other factors may affect the key assumptions used in the Company’s impairment testing. Various factors could impact our ability to achieve forecasted production levels from proven and probable reserves. Additionally, production, capital and reclamation costs could differ from the assumptions used in the cash flow models used to assess impairment. Actual results may vary from the Company’s estimates and result in additional impairment charges.
Foreign Currency Transactions and Translations Policy [Policy Text Block]	Foreign Currency Translation The Company’s functional and reporting currency, the US dollar, is the primary economic currency. Assets and liabilities in foreign currencies are generally translated into US dollars at the exchange rate on the balance sheet date. Revenues and expenses are translated at exchange rates on the date of the transaction. Where amounts denominated in a foreign currency are converted into US dollars by remittance or repayment, the realized exchange differences are included in other income. The exchange rates prevailing at December 31, 2015, December 31, 2014 and December 31, 2013 were $ 1.38 1.16 1.06 1.28 1.10 1.06
Earnings Per Share, Policy [Policy Text Block]	Earnings (Loss) Per Share The Company computes and discloses earnings (loss) per share in accordance with ASC 260, “Earnings per Share”, which requires dual presentation of basic earnings (loss) per share and diluted earnings (loss) per share on the face of all income statements presented for all entities with complex capital structures. Basic earnings (loss) per share is computed as net income (loss) attributed to the Company divided by the weighted average number of common shares outstanding for the period. Diluted earnings (loss) per share reflects the potential dilution that could occur from common shares issuable through stock options, warrants and convertible instruments. Net income attributable to any non-controlling interest is not included in the calculation of the basic and diluted earnings (loss) per share.
Asset Retirement Obligations, Policy [Policy Text Block]	Asset Retirement Obligations Asset retirement obligations (‘‘AROs’’) arise from the acquisition, development and construction of mining properties and plant and equipment due to government controls and regulations that protect the environment on the closure and reclamation of mining properties. The major parts of the carrying amount of AROs relate to tailings and heap leach pad closure and rehabilitation, demolition of buildings and mine facilities, ongoing water treatment and ongoing care and maintenance of closed mines. The Company recognizes an ARO at the time the environmental disturbance occurs. When the ARO provision is recognized, the corresponding cost is capitalized to property, plant, equipment and mineral interests and depreciated over the life of the related assets. The timing of the actual environmental remediation expenditures is dependent on a number of factors such as the life and nature of the asset, the operating license conditions and the environment in which the mine operates. Reclamation provisions are measured at the expected value of future cash flows discounted to their present value using a credit adjusted risk-free interest rate. AROs are adjusted each period to reflect the passage of time (accretion). Accretion expense is recorded in cost of sales each period. Upon settlement of an ARO, the Company records a gain or loss if the actual cost differs from the carrying amount of the ARO. Settlement gains/losses are recorded in the consolidated statements of income (loss). Expected ARO is updated to reflect changes in facts and circumstances. The principal factors that can cause the ARO to change are the construction of new processing facilities, changes in the quantities of material in proven and probable mineral reserves and a corresponding change in the life-of-mine plan, changing ore characteristics that impact required environmental protection measures and related costs, changes in water quality that impact the extent of water treatment required and changes in laws and regulations governing the protection of the environment. Each reporting period, provisions for AROs are re-measured to reflect any changes to significant assumptions, including the amount and timing of expected cash flows and credit adjusted risk-free interest rates. Changes to the reclamation provision resulting from changes in estimate are added to or deducted from the cost of the related asset, except where the reduction of the reclamation provision exceeds the carrying value of the related assets in which case the asset is reduced to nil and the remaining adjustment is recognized in the consolidated statements of income (loss).
Use of Estimates, Policy [Policy Text Block]	Estimates
Fair Value of Financial Instruments, Policy [Policy Text Block]	Fair Value of Financial Instruments The carrying amounts reported in the balance sheets for cash, receivables, accounts payable and accrued liabilities, interest payable, financing fee payable and reclamation financial assurance approximate fair values because of the immediate or short-term maturity of these financial instruments. The fair value of the short-term and long-term loans payable approximate their carrying values as the interest rates are based on the market rates. The market rates have remained steady for the loans payable during the past four quarters. The fair value of the short and long term portions of the notes payable approximates their carrying value and have been estimated based on discounted cash flows using interest rates being offered for similar debt instruments. The carrying amount of the notes payable are being recorded at amortized cost using the effective interest rate method. As at December 31, 2015, the fair value of the convertible debt and the notes payable was $Nil (December 31, 2014: $ 7,972,993 32,972,361 13,351,649
Income Tax, Policy [Policy Text Block]	Income Taxes The Company follows the asset and liability method of accounting for income taxes whereby the deferred tax assets and liabilities are recognized for the future tax consequences of differences between the financial statement carrying amounts of existing assets and liabilities and their respective tax basis. If it is determined that the realization of a future tax benefit is not more likely than not, the Company establishes a valuation allowance.
Share-based Compensation, Option and Incentive Plans Policy [Policy Text Block]	Stock Option Plan 1,070,000 750,000
Compensation Related Costs, Policy [Policy Text Block]	Stock-based Compensation Compensation costs are charged to the consolidated statements of income (loss) and comprehensive income (loss). Compensation costs for employees are amortized over the period from the grant date to the date the options vest. Compensation expense for non-employees is recognized immediately for past services and pro-rata for future services over the service provision period. We account for stock-based compensation awards granted to non-employees in accordance with FASB ASC Topic 505-50, Equity-Based Payments to Non-Employees, or The Company uses the Black-Scholes option valuation model to calculate the fair value of stock options at the date of grant. Option pricing models require the input of highly subjective assumptions, including the expected price volatility. Changes in these assumptions can materially affect the fair value estimate.
Derivatives, Policy [Policy Text Block]	The Company reviews the terms of its equity instruments and other financing arrangements to determine whether or not there are embedded derivative instruments that are required to be accounted for separately as a derivative financial instrument. Also, in connection with the issuance of financing instruments, the Company may issue freestanding options or warrants that may, depending on their terms, be accounted for as derivative instrument liabilities, rather than as equity. The Company may also issue options or warrants to non-employees in connection with consulting or other services. Derivative financial instruments are measured at their fair value. For derivative financial instruments that are accounted for as liabilities, the derivative instrument is initially recorded at its fair value and is then re-valued at each reporting date, with changes in the fair value reported as charges or credits to profit or loss. For warrant-based derivative financial instruments, the Company uses the Black-Scholes option pricing model to estimate fair value of the derivative instruments. For more complex derivative financial instruments, the Company uses acceptable pricing models to estimate fair value of the derivative instrument. The classification of derivative instruments, including whether or not such instruments should be recorded as liabilities or as equity, is reassessed at the end of each reporting period. If reclassification is required, the fair value of the derivative instrument, as of the determination date, is reclassified. Any previous charges or credits to income for changes in the fair value of the derivative instrument are not reversed. Derivative instrument liabilities are classified in the balance sheet as current or non-current based on whether net-cash settlement of the derivative instrument could be required within 12 months of the balance sheet date.
Non-Controlling Interest [Policy Text Block]	Non-Controlling Interest Non-controlling interests in temporary equity represent the estimated portion of non-controlling interest that could potentially be convertible through either a conversion of the non-controlling interest into a net smelter royalty obligation of GQM LLC or a buy-out of the non-controlling interest at fair value by the Company. The convertible portion of non-controlling interest recorded in temporary equity is initially recorded at the carrying value and then adjusted for net income or loss and distributions attributable to the temporary equity. The non-controlling interest in permanent equity represents the portion of the non-controlling interest that is not convertible. Please refer to Note 8(vii) of the audited consolidated annual financial statements for complete details of how the transaction has been accounted for.
New Accounting Pronouncements, Policy [Policy Text Block]	(i) Effective August 2014, FASB issued Accounting Standards update (“ASU”) 2014-15, Presentation of Financial Statements – Going Concern (Subtopic 205-40 –Disclosure of Uncertainties about an Entity’s Ability to Continue as a Going Concern. The update essentially requires management of all entities, for annual and interim periods, to evaluate whether there are conditions or events, considered in the aggregate, that raise substantial doubt about the entity’s ability to continue as a going concern within one year after the date the financial statements are issued. If conditions or events raise substantial doubt about an entity’s ability to continue as a going concern, but the substantial doubt is alleviated as a result of consideration of management’s plans, the entity should disclose information that enables users of the financial statements to understand all of the following: 1. Principal conditions or events that raised substantial doubt about the entity’s ability to continue as a going concern (before consideration of management’s plans). 2. Management’s evaluation of the significance of those conditions or events in relation to the entity’s ability to meet its obligations. 3. Management’s plans that alleviated substantial doubt about the entity’s ability to continue as a going concern. If conditions or events raise substantial doubt about an entity’s ability to continue as a going concern, and substantial doubt is not alleviated after consideration of management’s plans, an entity should include a statement in the footnotes indicating that there is substantial doubt about the entity’s ability to continue as a going concern 1. Principal conditions or events that raise substantial doubt about the entity’s ability to continue as a going concern. 2. Management’s evaluation of the significance of those conditions or events in relation to the entity’s ability to meet its obligations. 3. Management’s plans that are intended to mitigate the conditions or events that raise substantial doubt about the entity’s ability to continue as a going concern. This update will come into effect for the annual period ending after December 15, 2016, and for annual periods and interim periods thereafter. The Company is assessing the impact of this standard. (ii) In February, 2015, the FASB issued ASU 2015-02, Consolidation (Topic 810) – Amendments to the Consolidation Analysis ⋅ Placing more emphasis on risk of loss when determining a controlling financial interest. A reporting organization may no longer have to consolidate a legal entity in certain circumstances based solely on its fee arrangement, when certain criteria are met. ⋅ Reducing the frequency of the application of related-party guidance when determining a controlling financial interest in a variable interest entity (VIE). ⋅ Changing consolidation conclusions for public and private companies in several industries that typically make use of limited partnerships or VIEs. The ASU will be effective for periods beginning after December 15, 2015, for public companies. Early adoption is permitted, including adoption in an interim period. The Company will adopt the ASU effective January 1, 2016. (iii) In April, 2015, FASB issued ASU 2015-03, Interest – Imputation of Interest (Subtopic 835-30) which focuses on simplifying the presentation of debt issuance costs, the amendments in this update require that debt issuance costs related to a recognized debt liability be presented in the balance sheet as a direct deduction from the carrying amount of that debt liability, consistent with debt discounts. The recognition and measurement guidance for debt issuance costs are not affected by the amendments in this update. The ASU will be effective for periods beginning after December 15, 2015, for public companies. Early adoption is permitted, including adoption in an interim period. The Company has adopted the ASU for the December 31, 2015 year-end (iv) In July 2015, FASB issued ASU 2015-11, Inventory – Simplifying the Measurement of Inventory (Topic 330) which focuses on simplifying the guidance on subsequent measurement of inventory. Currently, the guidance requires an entity to measure inventory at the lower of cost or market. Market could be replacement cost, net realizable value, or net realizable value less an approximately normal profit margin. The ASU now updated the measurement to lower of cost and net realizable value. Net realizable value is the estimated selling prices in the ordinary course of business, less reasonably predictable costs of completion, disposal, and transportation. The ASU will be effective for periods beginning after December 15, 2016, for public companies. Early adoption is permitted, including adoption in an interim period. The Company assessed the impact of this new standard and adopted the new standard effective October 1, 2015. As the Company had a small inventory balance, the impact of the adoption of the new standard was immaterial. (v) In November 2015, FASB issued ASU 2015-17, Income taxes – Balance sheet classification of deferred taxes (Topic 740), which simplifies the requirement to classify deferred tax assets and liabilities as non-current and current on the statement of financial position to only having to classify the deferred tax assets and liabilities as non-current. This update will come into effect for the annual period ending after December 15, 2016, and for annual periods and interim periods thereafter. Early adoption is permitted as of the beginning of an interim or annual reporting period. The Company has assessed the impact of the new standard and has adopted the standard for the December 31, 2015 year end (vi) In January 2016, FASB issued ASU 2016-01, Financial Instruments – Recognition and measurement of financial assets and financial liabilities (Subtopic 825-10) which updates several aspects of recognition, measurement, presentation and disclosure of financial instruments. The amendments are as follows: 1. Require equity investments (except those accounted for under the equity method of accounting or those that result in consolidation of the investee) to be measured at fair value with changes in fair value recognized in net income. However, an entity may choose to measure equity investments that do not have readily determinable fair values at cost minus impairment, if any, plus or minus changes resulting from observable price changes in orderly transactions for the identical or a similar investment of the same issuer. 2. Simplify the impairment assessment of equity investments without readily determinable fair values by requiring a qualitative assessment to identify impairment. When a qualitative assessment indicates that impairment exists, an entity is required to measure the investment at fair value 3. Eliminate the requirement to disclose the fair value of financial instruments measured at amortized cost for entities that are not public business entities. 4. Eliminate the requirement for public business entities to disclose the method(s) and significant assumptions used to estimate the fair value that is required to be disclosed for financial instruments measured at amortized cost on the balance sheet. 5. Require public business entities to use the exit price notion when measuring the fair value of financial instruments for disclosure purposes. 6. Require an entity to present separately in other comprehensive income the portion of the total change in the fair value of a liability resulting from a change in the instrument-specific credit risk when the entity has elected to measure the liability at fair value in accordance with the fair value option for financial instruments. 7. Require separate presentation of financial assets and financial liabilities by measurement category and form of financial asset (that is, securities or loans and receivables) on the balance sheet or the accompanying notes to the financial statements. 8. Clarify that an entity should evaluate the need for a valuation allowance on a deferred tax asset related to available-for-sale securities in combination with the entity’s other deferred tax assets . The ASU will be effective for periods beginning after December 15, 2017, for public companies. The Company is assessing the impact of this standard.

Business Description and Acco25

Business Description and Accounting Policies (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015
Accounting Policies [Abstract]
Property Plant And Equipment Useful Lives [Table Text Block]	Depreciation is provided by the straight-line method over the estimated service lives of the respective assets, which range from 0 to 30 years, and using the units-of-production method as follows: Land Not depreciated Mineral property interests and claims Units-of-production Mine development Units-of-production Mine equipment 5 – 10 years Buildings 12 – 30 years Leasehold improvements 30 years Vehicles 5 – 10 years Computer equipment and software 3 years Asset retirements costs Units-of-production Capitalized interest Units-of-production

Inventory and Ore on Heap Lea26

Inventory and Ore on Heap Leach Pad (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015
Inventory, Net [Abstract]
Schedule of Inventory, Current [Table Text Block]	December 31, 2015 December 31, 2014 Stockpile inventory $ 1,259,669 $ - Supplies and spare parts 592,690 - $ 1,852,359 $ - Ore on heap leach pad: Current $ 83,240 -

Property, Plant, Equipment an27

Property, Plant, Equipment and Mineral Interests (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015
Property, Plant and Equipment [Abstract]
Property, Plant and Equipment [Table Text Block]	December 31, 2015 December 31, 2014 Land $ 109,600 $ 109,600 Mineral property interests and claims 4,458,744 3,299,319 Mine development 86,038,407 29,609,116 Mining equipment 25,425,661 1,167,872 Buildings 5,691,335 378,260 Leasehold improvements 51,030 46,402 Computer equipment and software 218,822 72,509 Vehicles 978,573 204,640 Asset retirement costs 626,878 272,567 Capitalized interest 5,174,846 2,412,015 Less: Accumulated depreciation, depletion and Amortization expensed (211,324) (182,699) $ 128,562,572 $ 37,389,601

Income Taxes (Tables)

Income Taxes (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015
Income Tax Disclosure [Abstract]
Schedule of Deferred Tax Assets and Liabilities [Table Text Block]	2015 2014 Deferred Tax Assets / (Liabilities): Net operating and capital losses $ 10,944,000 $ 12,051,000 Un-deducted interest 823,000 - Other items 124,000 569,000 Reorganization costs 47,000 - Foreign exchange (gain) loss (127,000) (186,000) Financing costs 444,000 - Investment in GQM LLC (12,922,000) (12,922,000) Valuation allowance (12,255,000) (12,434,000) Deferred tax liabilities $ (12,922,000) $ (12,922,000)
Schedule of Components of Income Tax Expense (Benefit) [Table Text Block]	December December 31, 2014 December 31, 2015 (Restated) 31, 2013 Income tax (benefit) provision at Canadian statutory rate $ (1,733,000) $ (2,567,000) $ 509,000 Foreign income taxes at other than Canadian statutory rate (841,000) (638,000) (125,000) Change in fair value of derivative liability (867,000) (288,000) (1,271,000) Non-deductible accretion and other 839,000 80,000 204,000 Non-deductible stock-based compensation 41,000 67,000 119,000 Non-taxable effect on foreign exchange 407,000 175,000 (17,000) Permanent differences, other 50,000 1,458,000 - Non-controlling Interest 838,000 561,000 - Change in statutory rate - (322,000) (64,000) Adjustment due to change in estimates 1,265,000 - 72,000 Increase (decrease) in valuation allowance 1,000 1,474,000 573,000 Tax (benefit) provision $ - $ - $ -
Net Operating Loss Carryforwards Available To Reduce Taxable Income [Table Text Block]	Country Amount Expiration Dates United States – Federal $ 23,618,000 2018 - 2034 Canada (C$) $ 5,863,000 2026 - 2034

Share Capital (Tables)

Share Capital (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Schedule of Share-based Compensation, Stock Options, Activity [Table Text Block]	The following is a summary of stock option activity during the years ended December 31, 2015, 2014 and 2013: Weighted Average Exercise Shares Price per Share Options outstanding, December 31, 2012 1,800,000 $ 0.24 Options issued 800,000 $ 1.28 Options exercised (1,220,000) $ 0.21 Options outstanding, December 31, 2013 1,380,000 $ 0.87 Options exercisable, December 31, 2013 880,000 $ 0.68 Options outstanding, December 31, 2013 1,380,000 $ 0.87 Options exercised (530,000) $ 0.21 Options forfeited (100,000) $ 1.16 Options outstanding, December 31, 2014 750,000 $ 1.29 Options exercisable, December 31, 2014 750,000 $ 1.29 Options outstanding, December 31, 2014 750,000 $ 1.29 Options issued 570,000 $ 0.58 Options expired (250,000) $ 1.18 Options outstanding, December 31, 2015 1,070,000 $ 0.94 Options exercisable, December 31, 2015 976,667 $ 0.97
Schedule of Share-based Compensation, Shares Authorized under Stock Option Plans, by Exercise Price Range [Table Text Block]	The fair value of stock options granted as above is calculated using the following weighted average assumptions: 2015 2014 2013 Expected life years 5.00 - 5.00 Interest rate 0.75 % - 1.78 % Volatility 76.83 % - 98.25 % Dividend yield 0.00 % - 0.00 %
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Vested and Expected to Vest, Outstanding and Exercisable [Table Text Block]	The following table summarizes information about stock options outstanding and exercisable at December 31, 2015: Remaining Expiry Number Number Contractual Life Exercise Date Outstanding Exercisable (Years) Price June 3, 2018 50,000 50,000 2.42 $ 1.16 September 3, 2018 150,000 150,000 2.68 $ 1.59 September 18, 2018 300,000 300,000 2.72 $ 1.26 September 8, 2020 570,000 476,667 4.69 $ 0.58 Balance, December 31, 2015 1,070,000 976,667 3.75

Asset Retirement Obligations 30

Asset Retirement Obligations and Financial Reclamation Assurance (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015
Asset Retirement Obligation Disclosure [Abstract]
Schedule of Change in Asset Retirement Obligation [Table Text Block]	December 31, 2015 December 31, 2014 Balance, beginning of the year $ 624,142 $ 552,250 Changes in cash flow estimates 354,311 71,892 Balance, end of the year $ 978,453 $ 624,142

Related Party Transactions (Tab

Related Party Transactions (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015
Debt Conversion [Line Items]
Schedule of Debt [Table Text Block]	As such, as of December 31, 2015, no accrual has been made for the potential costs related to the registration rights. December 31, 2015 December 31, 2014 Balance, beginning of the period $ 13,881,305 $ - Fair value at inception, notes payable 33,497,277 22,500,000 Repayment of loans (2,500,000) (7,500,000) Accretion of financing and legal fees 967,156 - Accretion of discount on the June Loan 1,374,228 - Extinguishment of the December 2014 Loan (12,500,000) - Loss on extinguishment of debt 151,539 - Interest payable transferred to principal balance of the June 2015 Loan 1,181,507 - Capitalized financing fee and legal fees - (1,118,695) Balance, end of the period 36,053,012 $ 13,881,305
Schedule Of Amortization Of Discounts And Interest On Loans And Convertible Debentures [Table Text Block]	The following table summarizes the amortization of discounts and interest on loans and convertible debentures: Year Ended Year Ended Year Ended Interest expense related to the convertible debentures $ 94,907 $ 181,479 $ - Interest expense related to the January 2014 Loan - 1,000,000 - Interest expense related to the December 2014 Loan 547,945 - - Interest expense related to the June 2015 Loan 2,151,152 - - Interest expense related to Komatsu Financial loans 281,958 3,352 - Accretion of debt discount on the convertible debentures 1,852,754 2,510,611 888,026 Interest on Gauss advance - 209,607 Accretion of the December 2014 Loan financing fees 967,155 - Accretion of the June 2015 Loan discount 1,374,228 - Accretion of discount and interest on loan and convertible debentures $ 7,270,099 $ 3,905,049 $ 888,026
Schedule Of Amortization Of Discount And Interest Expense [Table Text Block]	The Company capitalizes a portion of the interest expense as it related to funds borrowed to complete development activities at the Project site. Year Ended Year Ended Year Ended Accretion of discounts and interest on loan, advance and convertible debenture $ 7,270,099 $ 3,905,049 $ 888,026 Less: Interest costs capitalized (2,762,831) (2,412,015) - Accretion of discounts and interest expensed $ 4,507,268 $ 1,493,034 $ 888,026
Schedule of Variable Interest Entities [Table Text Block]	The net assets of GQM LLC as of December 31, 2015 and December 31, 2014 are as follows: December 31, 2015 December 31, 2014 Assets, GQM LLC $ 158,209,916 $ 118,937,371 Liabilities, GQM LLC (22,591,211) (4,769,144) Net assets, GQM LLC $ 135,618,705 $ 114,168,227
Consolidation, Less than Wholly Owned Subsidiary, Parent Ownership Interest, Effects of Changes, Net [Table Text Block]	The remaining 60 September 15, 2014 Net assets, GQM LLC before Joint Venture Transaction $ 16,973,184 Investment by Gauss 110,000,000 Net assets, GQM LLC after Joint Venture Transaction 126,973,184 Gauss’ ownership percentage 50 % Net assets of GQM LLC attributable to Gauss $ 63,486,592 Allocation of non-controlling interest between permanent equity and temporary equity: Permanent non-controlling interest (60% of total non-controlling interest) $ 38,091,955 Temporary non-controlling interest (40% of total non-controlling interest) $ 25,394,637
Schedule of Comprehensive Income Net of Tax Attributable To Noncontrolling Interest [Table Text Block]	December 31, 2015 December 31, 2014 Net and comprehensive loss in GQM LLC $ (3,549,522) $ (2,804,957) Non-controlling interest percentage 50 % 50 % Net and comprehensive loss attributable to non-controlling interest (1,774,761) (1,402,479) Net and comprehensive loss attributable to permanent non-controlling interest $ (1,064,857) $ (841,487) Net and comprehensive loss attributable to temporary non-controlling interest $ (709,904) $ (560,992)
Schedule Of Non-controlling Interest [Table Text Block]	Permanent Non- Temporary Non- Controlling Interest Controlling Interest Carrying value of non-controlling interest, September 15, 2014 $ 38,091,955 $ 25,394,637 Distributions to non-controlling interest (3,000,000) (2,000,000) Net and comprehensive loss for the period (841,487) (560,992) Carrying value of non-controlling interest , December 31, 2014 $ 34,250,468 $ 22,833,645 Permanent Non- Temporary Non- Carrying value of non-controlling interest, December 31, 2014 $ 34,250,468 $ 22,833,645 Capital contribution 7,500,000 5,000,000 Net and comprehensive loss for the period (1,064,857) (709,904) Carrying value of non-controlling interest , December 31 2015 $ 40,685,611 $ 27,123,741
Schedule Of Dilution Of Interest In Subsidiary [Table Text Block]	However, since the transaction was with a related party and the Company retained control, the excess has not been recognized in net income but rather has been recorded in equity as an increase to APIC based on guidance provided in ASC 810-10-55-4D and -4E. September 15, 2014 Investment by Gauss $ 110,000,000 Less: Initial carrying value of permanent equity (38,091,955) Initial carrying value of temporary equity (25,394,637) Deferred tax liability resulting from dilution gain (Notes 4 and 15) (12,922,000) Effect of dilution of subsidiary recorded to APIC $ 33,591,408
Share Purchase Warrants [Member]
Debt Conversion [Line Items]
Fair Value Measurements, Recurring and Nonrecurring, Valuation Techniques [Table Text Block]	2015 2014 Risk-free interest rate 0.73% - 1.02 % - Expected life of derivative liability 4.44 - 5 years - Expected volatility 72.29% - 76.11 % - Dividend rate 0.00 % -
Schedule of Derivative Liabilities at Fair Value [Table Text Block]	The change in the derivative share purchase warrants is as follows: December 31, 2015 December 31, 2014 Balance, beginning of the period $ - $ - Fair value at inception 4,002,723 - Change in fair value (1,504,454) - Balance, end of the period $ 2,498,269 $ -
Convertible Debentures [Member]
Debt Conversion [Line Items]
Fair Value Measurements, Recurring and Nonrecurring, Valuation Techniques [Table Text Block]	During 2015 and 2014 the derivative liability was calculated using an acceptable option pricing valuation model with the following assumptions: 2015 2014 Risk-free interest rate 0.49% - 0.50 % 1.00% - 1.09 % Expected life of derivative liability 0.07 - 0.32 years 0.57 - 1.32 years Expected volatility 49.36% - 77.00 % 73.03% - 98.21 % Dividend rate 0.00 % 0.00 %
Schedule of Derivative Liabilities at Fair Value [Table Text Block]	The changes in the derivative liability related to the conversion feature are as follows: December 31, 2015 December 31, 2014 Balance, beginning of the period $ 1,829,770 $ 2,833,987 Change in fair value of derivative liability including foreign exchange (1,829,770) (1,004,217) Balance, end of the period $ - $ 1,829,770
Convertible Debt [Table Text Block]	The change in the convertible debentures is as follows: December 31, 2015 December 31, 2014 Balance, beginning of the period $ 6,649,967 $ 4,642,620 Amortization of discount 1,852,754 2,510,611 Foreign exchange (827,721) (503,264) Repayment of convertible debenture (7,675,000) - Balance, end of the period $ - $ 6,649,967

Supplementary Disclosures of 32

Supplementary Disclosures of Cash Flow Information (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015
Supplemental Cash Flow Elements [Abstract]
Schedule of Cash Flow, Supplemental Disclosures [Table Text Block]	December 31, 2015 December 31, 2014 Cash paid during year for: Interest $ 1,214,255 $ 1,145,786 Income taxes $ - $ - Non-cash financing and investing activities: Common shares issued for mineral property $ - $ 24,480 Financing fee and legal fees related to short term debt capitalized $ - $ 1,118,695 Asset retirement costs charged to mineral property interests $ 354,311 $ 71,892 Mobile equipment acquired through issuance of debt $ 19,367,240 $ 926,540 Property, plant, equipment and mineral interests expenditures included in accounts payable $ 2,857,646 $ 3,097,053 Non-cash interest cost capitalized to mineral property interests $ 2,762,831 $ 2,412,015 Non-cash amortization of discount and interest expense $ 4,225,311 $ 1,493,034 Interest payable converted to principal balance on notes $ 1,181,507 $ -

Financial Instruments (Tables)

Financial Instruments (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015
Fair Value Disclosures [Abstract]
Fair Value, by Balance Sheet Grouping [Table Text Block]	The three levels of the fair value hierarchy are as follows: Level 1 Unadjusted quoted prices in active markets that are accessible at the measurement date for identical, unrestricted assets or liabilities; Level 2 Quoted prices in markets that are not active, or inputs that are observable, either directly or indirectly, for substantially the full term of the asset or liability; Level 3 Prices or valuation techniques that require inputs that are both significant to the fair value measurement and unobservable (supported by little or no market activity). December 31, 2015 Total Level 1 Level 2 Level 3 Liabilities: Share purchase warrants (Note 8) $ 2,498,269 $ - $ 2,498,269 $ - $ 2,498,269 $ - $ 2,498,269 $ - December 31. 2014 Total Level 1 Level 2 Level 3 Liabilities: Derivative liability (Note 8) $ 1,829,770 $ - $ 1,829,770 $ - $ 1,829,770 $ - $ 1,829,770 $ -

Earnings (Loss) Per Share (Tabl

Earnings (Loss) Per Share (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015
Earnings Per Share [Abstract]
Schedule of Earnings Per Share, Basic and Diluted [Table Text Block]	Year Ended Year Ended Year Ended Numerator: Net income (loss) – numerator for basic EPS $ (5,461,205) $ (8,469,204) $ 1,978,014 Amortization of discount - - 888,026 Change in derivative liability – Convertible debentures - - (2,907,533) Change in derivative – Stock options - - (767,419) Numerator for diluted EPS $ (5,461,205) $ (8,469,204) $ (808,912) Year Ended Year Ended Year Ended Denominator: Denominator for basic EPS 99,893,341 99,611,278 98,390,561 Effect of dilutive securities: Employee stock options - - 132,800 Convertible debenture - - 4,214,232 Denominator for diluted EPS 99,893,341 99,611,278 102,737,593 Basic earnings(loss) per share (0.05) $ (0.09) $ 0.02 Diluted loss per share (0.05) $ (0.09) $ (0.01)

Loan Payable (Tables)

Loan Payable (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015
Debt Disclosure [Abstract]
Schedule Of Loans Payable [Table Text Block]	As at December 31, 2015 and December 31, 2014, the finance agreement balances are as follows: December 31, 2015 December 31, 2014 Balance, beginning of year $ 913,132 $ - Additions 23,155,510 1,106,521 Down payments, taxes and principal repayments (5,695,819) (193,389) Balance, end of year $ 18,372,823 $ 913,132
Schedule of Long-term Debt Instruments [Table Text Block]	The terms of the financing agreements are as follows: December 31, 2015 December 31, 2014 Total acquisition costs $ 24,262,031 $ 1,106,521 Interest rates 0.00% - 4.40% 1.80% - 2.99% Monthly payments $4,669 - $33,906 $5,268 - $15,109 Average remaining life (Years) 3.46 3.89 Short-term portion 4,942,716 222,839 Long-term portion $ 13,430,107 $ 690,293
Schedule of Maturities of Long-term Debt [Table Text Block]	The following table outlines the principal payments to be made for each of the remaining years: Year Principal Payments 2016 $ 4,942,716 2017 $ 5,126,206 2018 $ 5,248,707 2019 $ 3,055,194 Total $ 18,372,823

Prior Periods Financial Resta36

Prior Periods Financial Restatements (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015
Accounting Changes and Error Corrections [Abstract]
Schedule of Error Corrections and Prior Period Adjustments [Table Text Block]	Impact for the year ended December 31, 2014 As Previously Reported As Restated Liabilities: Deferred tax liability $ - $ 12,922,000 Total liabilities $ 27,778,513 $ 40,700,513 Shareholders’ Equity: Additional paid-in capital $ 56,390,510 $ 43,468,510 Total shareholders’ equity attributable to GQM Ltd. $ 44,654,709 $ 31,732,709 Total shareholders’ equity $ 78,905,177 $ 65,983,177 Impact on the first three quarters of 2015 and third quarter of 2014(Unaudited) September 30, 2014 March 31, 2015 As Previously Reported As Restated As Previously Reported As Restated Liabilities: Deferred tax liability $ - $ 12,922,000 $ - $ 12,922,000 Total liabilities $ 23,138,376 $ 36,060,376 $ 31,358,690 $ 44,280,690 Shareholders’ Equity: Additional paid-in capital $ 56,436,755 $ 43,514,755 $ 56,390,510 $ 43,468,510 Total shareholders’ equity attributable to GQM Ltd. $ 43,157,822 $ 30,235,822 $ 43,369,950 $ 30,447,950 Total shareholders’ equity $ 77,553,630 $ 64,631,630 $ 77,448,394 $ 64,526,394 June 30, 2015 September 30, 2015 As Previously Reported As Restated As Previously Reported As Restated Liabilities: Deferred tax liability $ - $ 12,922,000 $ - $ 12,922,000 Total liabilities $ 59,791,117 $ 72,713,117 $ 57,891,299 $ 70,813,299 Shareholders’ Equity: Additional paid-in capital $ 56,390,510 $ 43,468,510 $ 56,545,713 $ 43,623,713 Total shareholders’ equity attributable to GQM Ltd. $ 41,990,686 $ 29,068,686 $ 40,221,722 $ 27,299,722 Total shareholders’ equity $ 83,141,709 $ 70,219,709 $ 81,205,389 $ 68,283,389

GQM Ltd. Non-Consolidated Inf37

GQM Ltd. Non-Consolidated Information (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015
Condensed Financial Information of Parent Company Only Disclosure [Abstract]
Condensed Balance Sheet [Table Text Block]	(i) Non-Consolidated Balance Sheets December 31, December 31, 2015 2014 Assets Current assets: Cash $ 5,002,974 $ 4,973,955 Receivables 54,803 129,965 Prepaid expenses and other current assets 43,499 56,122 Total current assets 5,101,276 5,160,042 Mineral interests 5,129,582 2,366,751 Investment in subsidiaries 28,162,449 32,661,592 Due from subsidiaries 27,777,387 14,651,807 Total Assets $ 66,170,694 $ 54,840,192 Liabilities and Shareholders’ Equity Liabilities: Accounts payable and accrued liabilities $ 67,835 $ 175,720 Interest payable 969,645 320,721 Financing fee payable - 250,000 Notes payable 36,053,012 13,881,305 Derivative liability - Warrants 2,498,269 - Derivative liability–Convertible debentures - 1,829,770 Convertible debenture - 6,649,967 Total Liabilities 39,588,761 23,107,483 Shareholders’ Equity Common shares, no par value, unlimited shares authorized (2014 -unlimited); 99,928,683 (2014 – 99,778,683) shares issued and outstanding 62,860,443 62,709,015 Additional paid-in capital 43,627,511 43,468,510 Deficit accumulated (79,906,021) (74,444,816) Total Shareholders’ Equity 26,581,933 31,732,709 Total Liabilities and Shareholders’ Equity $ 66,170,694 $ 54,840,192
Condensed Statement of Comprehensive Income [Table Text Block]	ii) Non-Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income (Loss) Year Ended Year Ended Year Ended General and administrative expenses $ (596,583) $ (2,998,824) $ (2,002,240) Change in fair value of derivative liability including change in foreign exchange 3,334,224 1,004,217 5,385,660 2,737,641 (1,994,607) 3,383,420 Other income (expenses) Interest expense (4,225,311) (1,325,339) (888,026) Loss on extinguishment of debt (151,539) - - Financing fee (1,500,000) - - Commitment fee - (2,250,000) - Interest income 2,177,147 1,458,932 448,058 Net income (loss) before equity in earnings (losses) of subsidiaries (962,062) (4,111,014) 2,943,452 Equity in earnings (losses) of subsidiaries (4,499,143) (4,358,190) (965,438) Net and comprehensive income (loss) for the year $ (5,461,205) $ (8,469,204) $ 1,978,014
Condensed Cash Flow Statement [Table Text Block]	(iii) Non-Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows Year Ended Year Ended Year Ended Operating activities: Net income (loss) for the year $ (5,461,205) $ (8,469,204) $ 1,978,014 Adjustments to reconcile net income (loss) to cash used in operating activities: Equity in losses (earnings) of subsidiaries 4,499,143 4,358,190 965,438 Amortization of debt discount and interest accrual 4,225,311 1,534,946 888,026 Change in fair value of derivative liabilities including change in foreign exchange (3,334,224) (1,004,217) (5,385,660) Stock-based compensation 159,001 233,672 475,263 Non-cash consulting expense 151,428 - - Financing fee related to long-term debt 1,500,000 - - Loss on extinguishment of debt 151,539 - - Foreign exchange (839,849) (504,539) (137,790) Changes in assets and liabilities: Receivables 75,162 (116,178) 3,184 Prepaid expenses and other current assets 12,623 (27,165) 26,311 Accounts payable and accrued liabilities (107,885) (177,278) 239,341 Interest payable (951,445) (1,145,786) - Cash used in operating activities 79,599 (5,317,559) (947,873) Investment activities: Investment in subsidiaries - - (2,418,217) Advances to subsidiaries (13,125,580) (8,936,581) (5,668,178) Cash used in investing activities (13,125,580) (8,936,581) (8,086,395) Financing activities: Proceeds from convertible debt - - 9,710,603 Borrowing under long-term debt 25,000,000 32,500,000 - Repayment of short-term debt (2,500,000) (17,500,000) - Financing fees related to short-term debt (1,500,000) (868,695) - Repayment of convertible debentures (7,675,000) - - Financing fees related to short-term debt capitalized to the loan (250,000) - - Issuance of common shares upon exercise of stock options - 111,421 307,363 Cash provided by financing activities 13,075,000 14,242,726 10,017,966 Net change in cash 29,019 (11,414) 983,698 Cash, Beginning balance 4,973,955 4,985,369 4,001,671 Cash, Ending balance $ 5,002,974 $ 4,973,955 $ 4,985,369

Business Description and Acco38

Business Description and Accounting Policies (Details)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015
Land [Member]
Property, Plant and Equipment, Depreciation Methods	Not depreciated
Mineral Property Interests And Claims [Member]
Property, Plant and Equipment, Depreciation Methods	Units-of-production
Mine development [Member]
Property, Plant and Equipment, Depreciation Methods	Units-of-production
Mine equipment [Member] | Minimum [Member]
Property, Plant and Equipment, Useful Life	5 years
Mine equipment [Member] | Maximum [Member]
Property, Plant and Equipment, Useful Life	10 years
Building [Member] | Minimum [Member]
Property, Plant and Equipment, Useful Life	12 years
Building [Member] | Maximum [Member]
Property, Plant and Equipment, Useful Life	30 years
Leasehold Improvements [Member]
Property, Plant and Equipment, Useful Life	30 years
Vehicles [Member] | Minimum [Member]
Property, Plant and Equipment, Useful Life	5 years
Vehicles [Member] | Maximum [Member]
Property, Plant and Equipment, Useful Life	10 years
Computer Software, Intangible Asset [Member]
Property, Plant and Equipment, Useful Life	3 years
Asset Retirement Obligation Costs [Member]
Property, Plant and Equipment, Depreciation Methods	Units-of-production
Capitalized Interest [Member]
Property, Plant and Equipment, Depreciation Methods	Units-of-production

Business Description and Acco39

Business Description and Accounting Policies (Details Textual)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015USD ($)shares	Dec. 31, 2014USD ($)shares	Dec. 31, 2013shares	Sep. 15, 2014	Dec. 31, 2012shares
Average Rate Of Foreign Exchange Rate Translation	1.28	1.10	1.06
Noncontrolling Interest, Ownership Percentage by Parent				50.00%
Property, Plant and Equipment, Other, Gross | $	$ 3,000
Foreign Currency Exchange Rate, Translation	1.38	1.16	1.06
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Outstanding, Number, Beginning Balance | shares	1,070,000
Convertible Debt, Fair Value Disclosures | $	$ 0	$ 7,972,993
Notes Payable, Fair Value Disclosure | $	$ 32,972,361	$ 13,351,649
Employee Stock Option [Member]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Outstanding, Number, Beginning Balance | shares	1,070,000	750,000	1,380,000		1,800,000
Stock Compensation Plan [Member]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Outstanding, Number, Beginning Balance | shares	7,200,000
Golden Queen Mining Holdings, Inc [Member]
Noncontrolling Interest, Ownership Percentage by Parent				50.00%
Gauss LLC [Member]
Noncontrolling Interest, Ownership Percentage by Parent	50.00%	50.00%		50.00%

Basis of Presentation and Abi40

Basis of Presentation and Ability to Continue as a Going Concern (Details Textual) - USD ($)	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014
Organization Consolidation And Presentation Of Financial Statements [Line Items]
Working Capital	$ 7,743,109	$ 65,110,327
Retained Earnings (Accumulated Deficit), Total	(79,906,021)	$ (74,444,816)
Other Loans Payable, Long-term, Noncurrent	$ 38,681,507

Inventory and Ore on Heap Lea41

Inventory and Ore on Heap Leach Pad (Details) - USD ($)	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014
Inventory [Line Items]
Stockpile inventory	$ 1,259,669	$ 0
Supplies and spare parts	592,690	0
Inventory, Net	1,852,359	0
Ore on heap leach pad: Current	$ 83,240	$ 0

Property, Plant, Equipment an42

Property, Plant, Equipment and Mineral Interests (Details) - USD ($)	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014
Capitalized Costs Relating to Oil and Gas Producing Activities, by Geographic Area [Line Items]
Land	$ 109,600	$ 109,600
Mineral property interests and claims	4,458,744	3,299,319
Mine development	86,038,407	29,609,116
Mining equipment	25,425,661	1,167,872
Buildings	5,691,335	378,260
Leasehold improvements	51,030	46,402
Computer equipment and software	218,822	72,509
Vehicles	978,573	204,640
Asset retirement costs	626,878	272,567
Capitalized interest	5,174,846	2,412,015
Less:
Accumulated depreciation, depletion and Amortization expensed	(211,324)	(182,699)
Property Plant Equipment and Mineral Properties Net	$ 128,562,572	$ 37,389,601

Property, Plant, Equipment an43

Property, Plant, Equipment and Mineral Interests (Details Textual) - USD ($)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2004
Capitalized Costs Relating to Oil and Gas Producing Activities, by Geographic Area [Line Items]
Depreciation, Total	$ 2,255,056	$ 126,631

Income Taxes (Details)

Income Taxes (Details) - USD ($)	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014
Deferred Tax Assets / (Liabilities):
Net operating and capital losses	$ 10,944,000	$ 12,051,000
Un-deducted interest	823,000	0
Other items	124,000	569,000
Reorganization costs	47,000	0
Foreign exchange (gain) loss	(127,000)	(186,000)
Financing costs	444,000	0
Investment in GQM LLC	(12,922,000)	(12,922,000)
Valuation allowance	(12,255,000)	(12,434,000)
Deferred tax liabilities	$ (12,922,000)	$ (12,922,000)

Income Taxes (Details 1)

Income Taxes (Details 1) - USD ($)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
Income Taxes [Line Items]
Income tax (benefit) provision at Canadian statutory rate	$ (1,733,000)	$ (2,567,000)	$ 509,000
Foreign income taxes at other than Canadian statutory rate	(841,000)	(638,000)	(125,000)
Change in fair value of derivative liability	(867,000)	(288,000)	(1,271,000)
Non-deductible accretion and other	839,000	80,000	204,000
Non-deductible stock-based compensation	41,000	67,000	119,000
Non-taxable effect on foreign exchange	407,000	175,000	$ (17,000)
Permanent differences, other	50,000	1,458,000
Non-controlling Interest	838,000	561,000
Change in statutory rate	0	(322,000)	$ (64,000)
Adjustment due to change in estimates	1,265,000	0	72,000
Increase (decrease) in valuation allowance	1,000	1,474,000	573,000
Tax (benefit) provision	$ 0	$ 0	$ 0

Income Taxes (Details 2)

Income Taxes (Details 2)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015USD ($)
UNITED STATES
Operating Loss Carryforwards [Line Items]
Operating Loss Carryforwards	$ 23,618,000
Operating Loss Carryforwards, Limitations on Use	2018 - 2034
CANADA
Operating Loss Carryforwards [Line Items]
Operating Loss Carryforwards	$ 5,863,000
Operating Loss Carryforwards, Limitations on Use	2026 - 2034

Share Capital (Details)

Share Capital (Details) - $ / shares	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Options outstanding,	1,070,000
Options exercisable	976,667
Employee Stock Option [Member]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Options outstanding,	750,000	1,380,000	1,800,000
Options issued	570,000		800,000
Options exercised		(530,000)	(1,220,000)
Options forfeited		(100,000)
Options expired	(250,000)
Options outstanding,	1,070,000	750,000	1,380,000
Options exercisable	976,667	750,000	880,000
Weighted Average Exercise Price Per Share, Options outstanding	$ 1.29	$ 0.87	$ 0.24
Weighted Average Exercise Price Per Share, Options issued	0.58		1.28
Weighted Average Exercise Price Per Share, Options exercised		0.21	0.21
Weighted Average Exercise Price Per Share, Options forfeited		1.16
Weighted Average Exercise Price Per Share, Options expired	1.18
Weighted Average Exercise Price Per Share, Options outstanding	0.94	1.29	0.87
Weighted Average Exercise Price Per Share, Options exercisable	$ 0.97	$ 1.29	$ 0.68

Share Capital (Details 1)

Share Capital (Details 1)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Expected life years	5 years	0 years	5 years
Interest rate	0.75%	0.00%	1.78%
Volatility	76.83%	0.00%	98.25%
Dividend yield	0.00%	0.00%	0.00%

Share Capital (Details 2)

Share Capital (Details 2)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015$ / sharesshares
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Number Outstanding	1,070,000
Number Exercisable	976,667
Remaining Contractual Life (Years)	3 years 9 months
June 3, 2018 [Member]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Number Outstanding	50,000
Number Exercisable	50,000
Remaining Contractual Life (Years)	2 years 5 months 1 day
Exercise Price | $ / shares	$ 1.16
September 3, 2018 [Member]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Number Outstanding	150,000
Number Exercisable	150,000
Remaining Contractual Life (Years)	2 years 8 months 5 days
Exercise Price | $ / shares	$ 1.59
September 18, 2018 [Member]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Number Outstanding	300,000
Number Exercisable	300,000
Remaining Contractual Life (Years)	2 years 8 months 19 days
Exercise Price | $ / shares	$ 1.26
September 8, 2020 [Member]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Number Outstanding	570,000
Number Exercisable	476,667
Remaining Contractual Life (Years)	4 years 8 months 8 days
Exercise Price | $ / shares	$ 0.58

Share Capital (Details Textual)

Share Capital (Details Textual)	1 Months Ended																		12 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2015USD ($)shares	May. 31, 2014USD ($)$ / sharesshares	Apr. 30, 2014USD ($)$ / sharesshares	Feb. 28, 2014USD ($)$ / sharesshares	Nov. 30, 2013USD ($)$ / sharesshares	Nov. 30, 2013CADshares	Oct. 31, 2013USD ($)$ / sharesshares	Oct. 31, 2013CADshares	Oct. 31, 2013USD ($)$ / sharesshares	Oct. 31, 2013CADshares	Sep. 30, 2013USD ($)$ / sharesshares	Sep. 30, 2013CADshares	May. 31, 2013USD ($)$ / sharesshares	May. 31, 2013CADshares	Apr. 30, 2013USD ($)$ / sharesshares	Apr. 30, 2013CADshares	Mar. 31, 2013USD ($)shares	Mar. 31, 2013CADshares	Dec. 31, 2015USD ($)shares	Dec. 31, 2014USD ($)shares	Dec. 31, 2013USD ($)shares	Dec. 31, 2004shares
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Stock Issued During Period, Value, Issued for Services																			$ 151,428
Stock Issued During Period, Value, Purchase of Assets																				$ 24,480	$ 22,568
Stock Issued During Period, Value, Stock Options Exercised																				111,421	307,363
Share-based Compensation, Total																			159,001	233,672	475,263
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Vested and Expected to Vest, Exercisable, Aggregate Intrinsic Value																			$ 0	$ 0	$ 325,995
Common Stock [Member]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Stock Issued During Period, Shares, Issued for Services | shares																			150,000
Stock Issued During Period, Value, Issued for Services																			$ 151,428
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Exercises in Period | shares		300,000	170,000	60,000	100,000	100,000	300,000	300,000	500,000	500,000	20,000	20,000	100,000	100,000	200,000	200,000				530,000	1,220,000
Shares Issued, Price Per Share | $ / shares		$ 0.21	$ 0.21	$ 0.21	$ 0.26		$ 0.26		$ 0.26		$ 0.26		$ 0.26		$ 0.26
Stock Issued During Period, Shares, Purchase of Assets | shares				15,300													15,000	15,000		15,300	15,000
Stock Issued During Period, Value, Purchase of Assets				$ 24,480													$ 22,568	CAD 23,250		$ 24,480	$ 22,568
Stock Issued During Period, Value, Stock Options Exercised		$ 63,000	$ 35,700	12,721	$ 24,900	CAD 26,000	$ 74,677	CAD 78,000	$ 126,373	CAD 130,000	$ 5,017	CAD 5,200	$ 25,722	CAD 26,000	$ 50,674	CAD 52,000				395,133	307,363
Additional Paid-in Capital [Member]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Stock Issued During Period, Value, Issued for Services																			$ 0
Stock Issued During Period, Value, Purchase of Assets																				0	0
Stock Issued During Period, Value, Stock Options Exercised		$ 160,592	$ 91,002	$ 32,118	$ 68,849		$ 238,623		$ 355,351		$ 24,724		$ 90,496		$ 132,011					(283,712)	0
Forfeited Sock Options [Member]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Share-based Compensation, Total																				46,245	$ 0
Employee Stock Option [Member]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Exercises in Period | shares		300,000	170,000	60,000	100,000	100,000	300,000	300,000	500,000	500,000	20,000	20,000	100,000	100,000	200,000	200,000					1,220,000	530,000
Stock Issued During Period, Value, Stock Options Exercised																				$ 754,513	$ 325,158
President [Member]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Stock Issued During Period, Shares, Issued for Services | shares	150,000
Stock Issued During Period, Value, Issued for Services	$ 151,428

Asset Retirement Obligations 51

Asset Retirement Obligations and Financial Reclamation Assurance (Details) - USD ($)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014
Asset Retirement Obligations [Line Items]
Balance, beginning of the year	$ 624,142	$ 552,250
Changes in cash flow estimates	354,311	71,892
Balance, end of the year	$ 978,453	$ 624,142

Asset Retirement Obligations 52

Asset Retirement Obligations and Financial Reclamation Assurance (Details Textual) - USD ($)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
Asset Retirement Obligations [Line Items]
Asset Retirement Obligation	$ 978,453	$ 624,142	$ 552,250
Asset Retirement Obligation, Period Increase (Decrease), Total	354,311	71,892
Bureau of Land Management [Member]
Asset Retirement Obligations [Line Items]
Security Deposit	624,142	553,329
Regional Board [Member]
Asset Retirement Obligations [Line Items]
Security Deposit	$ 278,240	$ 0

Commitments and Contingencies (

Commitments and Contingencies (Details Textual) - USD ($)	Aug. 10, 2015	Jan. 31, 2016	May. 31, 2015	Mar. 27, 2015	May. 31, 2010	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2004
Advance Minimum Royalty Payments						$ 134,417	$ 67,513
Issuance Of Bonus Shares Upon Completion Of Milestone									300,000
Issuance Of Bonus Shares					300,000				150,000
Issuance Of Bonus Shares Additional					300,000				150,000
Bonus Shares Value Per Share					$ 1
Bonus Shares Value Per Share Additional					$ 1.50
Other Commitment, Total						47,600,000
Outstanding Commitment Amount						$ 4,400,000
Shares To Be Issued Result of Termination	150,000
Subsequent Event [Member]
Advance Minimum Royalty Payments		$ 2,500
Common Stock [Member]
Issuance Of Bonus Shares				150,000
Stock Issued During Period Value Issued For Management Agreement				$ 151,428
Finder Fee [Member]
Stock Issued During Period, Shares, Acquisitions						100,000
President [Member]
Officers' Compensation			$ 438,000
Chief Financial Officer [Member]
Officers' Compensation								$ 300,000
Interim Chief Executive Officer [Member]
Officers' Compensation						$ 100,000

Related Party Transactions (Det

Related Party Transactions (Details) - Convertible Debentures [Member]	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014
Dividend rate	0.00%	0.00%
Maximum [Member]
Risk-free interest rate	0.50%	1.09%
Expected life of derivative liability	3 months 25 days	1 year 3 months 25 days
Expected volatility	77.00%	98.21%
Minimum [Member]
Risk-free interest rate	0.49%	1.00%
Expected life of derivative liability	25 days	6 months 25 days
Expected volatility	49.36%	73.03%

Related Party Transactions (D55

Related Party Transactions (Details 1) - USD ($)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014
Balance, beginning of the period	$ 1,829,770
Balance, end of the period	0	$ 1,829,770
Convertible Debentures [Member]
Balance, beginning of the period	1,829,770	2,833,987
Change in fair value of derivative liability including foreign exchange	(1,829,770)	(1,004,217)
Balance, end of the period	$ 0	$ 1,829,770

Related Party Transactions (D56

Related Party Transactions (Details 2) - USD ($)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
Balance, beginning of the period	$ 6,649,967	$ 4,642,620
Amortization of discount	1,852,754	2,510,611
Foreign exchange	(827,721)	(503,264)
Repayment of convertible debenture	(7,675,000)	0	$ 0
Balance, end of the period	$ 0	$ 6,649,967	$ 4,642,620

Related Party Transactions (D57

Related Party Transactions (Details 3) - USD ($)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Balance, beginning of the period	$ 13,881,305	$ 0
Fair value at inception, notes payable	33,497,277	22,500,000
Repayment of loans	(2,500,000)	(7,500,000)
Accretion of financing and legal fees	967,156	0
Accretion of discount on the June Loan	1,374,228	0
Extinguishment of the December 2014 Loan	(12,500,000)	0
Loss on extinguishment of debt	151,539	0	$ 0
Interest payable transferred to principal balance of the June 2015 Loan	1,181,507	0
Capitalized financing fee and legal fees	0	(1,118,695)
Balance, end of the period	$ 36,053,012	$ 13,881,305	$ 0

Related Party Transactions (D58

Related Party Transactions (Details 4) - Share Purchase Warrants [Member]	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014
Fair Value Measurements, Recurring and Nonrecurring, Valuation Techniques [Line Items]
Risk-free interest rate		0.00%
Expected life of derivative liability		0 years
Expected volatility		0.00%
Dividend rate	0.00%	0.00%
Maximum [Member]
Fair Value Measurements, Recurring and Nonrecurring, Valuation Techniques [Line Items]
Risk-free interest rate	1.02%
Expected life of derivative liability	5 years
Expected volatility	76.11%
Minimum [Member]
Fair Value Measurements, Recurring and Nonrecurring, Valuation Techniques [Line Items]
Risk-free interest rate	0.73%
Expected life of derivative liability	4 years 5 months 8 days
Expected volatility	72.29%

Related Party Transactions (D59

Related Party Transactions (Details 5) - Share Purchase Warrants [Member] - USD ($)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014
Derivative [Line Items]
Balance, beginning of the period	$ 0	$ 0
Fair value at inception	4,002,723	0
Change in fair value	(1,504,454)	0
Balance, end of the period	$ 2,498,269	$ 0

Related Party Transactions (D60

Related Party Transactions (Details 6) - USD ($)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
Amortization of Discounts and Interest on Loans and Convertible Debentures [Line Items]
Interest expense related to the convertible debentures	$ 94,907	$ 181,479	$ 0
Interest expense related to the January 2014 Loan	0	1,000,000	0
Interest expense related to the December 2014 Loan	547,945	0	0
Interest expense related to the June 2015 Loan	2,151,152	0	0
Interest expense related to Komatsu Financial loans	281,958	3,352	0
Accretion of debt discount on the convertible debentures	1,852,754	2,510,611	$ 888,026
Interest in Gauss advance	0	209,607
Accretion of the December 2014 Loan financing fees	967,155	0
Accretion of the June 2015 Loan discount	1,374,228	0
Accretion of discount and interest on loan and convertible debentures	$ 7,270,099	$ 3,905,049	$ 888,026

Related Party Transactions (D61

Related Party Transactions (Details 7) - USD ($)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
Amortization Of Discount And Interest Expense [Line Items]
Accretion of discounts and interest on loan, advance and convertible debenture	$ 7,270,099	$ 3,905,049	$ 888,026
Less: Interest costs capitalized	(2,762,831)	(2,412,015)	0
Accretion of discounts and interest expensed	$ 4,507,268	$ 1,493,034	$ 888,026

Related Party Transactions (D62

Related Party Transactions (Details 8) - USD ($)	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014
Variable Interest Entity [Line Items]
Assets, GQM LLC	$ 158,209,916	$ 118,937,371
Liabilities, GQM LLC	(22,591,211)	(4,769,144)
Net assets, GQM LLC	$ 135,618,705	$ 114,168,227

Related Party Transactions (D63

Related Party Transactions (Details 9) - USD ($)	1 Months Ended
	Sep. 15, 2014	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014
Consolidation, Less than Wholly Owned Subsidiary, Parent Ownership Interest, Effects of Changes, Net [Line Items]
Net assets, GQM LLC after Joint Venture Transaction	$ 126,973,184
Gauss' ownership percentage	50.00%
Allocation of non-controlling interest between permanent equity and temporary equity:
Temporary non-controlling interest (40% of total non-controlling interest)		$ 27,123,741	$ 22,833,645
Gauss LLC [Member]
Consolidation, Less than Wholly Owned Subsidiary, Parent Ownership Interest, Effects of Changes, Net [Line Items]
Investment by Gauss	$ 110,000,000
Net assets, GQM LLC after Joint Venture Transaction	$ 63,486,592
Gauss' ownership percentage	50.00%	50.00%	50.00%
Allocation of non-controlling interest between permanent equity and temporary equity:
Permanent non-controlling interest (60% of total non-controlling interest)	$ 38,091,955
Temporary non-controlling interest (40% of total non-controlling interest)	25,394,637
Subsidiaries [Member]
Consolidation, Less than Wholly Owned Subsidiary, Parent Ownership Interest, Effects of Changes, Net [Line Items]
Net assets, GQM LLC before Joint Venture Transaction	$ 16,973,184
Gauss' ownership percentage	50.00%

Related Party Transactions (D64

Related Party Transactions (Details 10) - USD ($)	4 Months Ended	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014	Sep. 15, 2014
Non-controlling interest percentage				50.00%
Subsidiaries [Member]
Net and comprehensive loss		$ (3,549,522)	$ (2,804,957)
Non-controlling interest percentage				50.00%
Gauss LLC [Member]
Net and comprehensive loss		$ (1,774,761)	$ (1,402,479)
Non-controlling interest percentage	50.00%	50.00%	50.00%	50.00%
Permanent Non-controlling Interest [Member]
Net and comprehensive loss		$ (1,064,857)
Permanent Non-controlling Interest [Member] | Gauss LLC [Member]
Net and comprehensive loss	$ (841,487)	(1,064,857)	$ (841,487)
Temporary Non-controlling Interest [Member]
Net and comprehensive loss		(709,904)
Temporary Non-controlling Interest [Member] | Gauss LLC [Member]
Net and comprehensive loss	$ (560,992)	$ (709,904)	$ (560,992)

Related Party Transactions (D65

Related Party Transactions (Details 11) - USD ($)	4 Months Ended	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014
Noncontrolling Interest [Line Items]
Carrying value of non-controlling interest		$ 34,250,468
Capital contribution		7,500,000
Distributions to non-controlling interest			$ (3,000,000)
Carrying value of non-controlling interest	$ 34,250,468	40,685,611	34,250,468
Permanent Non-controlling Interest [Member]
Noncontrolling Interest [Line Items]
Carrying value of non-controlling interest		34,250,468
Capital contribution		7,500,000
Net and comprehensive loss for the period		(1,064,857)
Carrying value of non-controlling interest	34,250,468	40,685,611	34,250,468
Temporary Non-controlling Interest [Member]
Noncontrolling Interest [Line Items]
Carrying value of non-controlling interest		22,833,645
Capital contribution		5,000,000
Net and comprehensive loss for the period		(709,904)
Carrying value of non-controlling interest	22,833,645	27,123,741	22,833,645
Gauss LLC [Member]
Noncontrolling Interest [Line Items]
Net and comprehensive loss for the period		(1,774,761)	(1,402,479)
Gauss LLC [Member] | Permanent Non-controlling Interest [Member]
Noncontrolling Interest [Line Items]
Carrying value of non-controlling interest	38,091,955	34,250,468
Distributions to non-controlling interest	(3,000,000)
Net and comprehensive loss for the period	(841,487)	(1,064,857)	(841,487)
Carrying value of non-controlling interest	34,250,468		34,250,468
Gauss LLC [Member] | Temporary Non-controlling Interest [Member]
Noncontrolling Interest [Line Items]
Carrying value of non-controlling interest	25,394,637	22,833,645
Distributions to non-controlling interest	(2,000,000)
Net and comprehensive loss for the period	(560,992)	$ (709,904)	(560,992)
Carrying value of non-controlling interest	$ 22,833,645		$ 22,833,645

Related Party Transactions (D66

Related Party Transactions (Details 12) - USD ($)	1 Months Ended
	Sep. 15, 2014	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014
Noncontrolling Interest [Line Items]
Deferred tax liability resulting from dilution gain (Notes 4 and 15)	$ (12,922,000)	$ (12,922,000)	$ (12,922,000)
Stockholders' Equity Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest		40,685,611	34,250,468
Permanent Non-controlling Interest [Member]
Noncontrolling Interest [Line Items]
Stockholders' Equity Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest		40,685,611	34,250,468
Temporary Non-controlling Interest [Member]
Noncontrolling Interest [Line Items]
Stockholders' Equity Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest		$ 27,123,741	22,833,645
Gauss LLC [Member]
Noncontrolling Interest [Line Items]
Investment by Gauss	110,000,000
Gauss LLC [Member] | Permanent Non-controlling Interest [Member]
Noncontrolling Interest [Line Items]
Stockholders' Equity Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest	38,091,955		34,250,468
Gauss LLC [Member] | Temporary Non-controlling Interest [Member]
Noncontrolling Interest [Line Items]
Stockholders' Equity Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest	25,394,637		$ 22,833,645
Gauss LLC [Member] | Additional Paid-in Capital [Member]
Noncontrolling Interest [Line Items]
Stockholders' Equity Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest	$ 33,591,408

Related Party Transactions (D67

Related Party Transactions (Details Textual)	Jun. 08, 2015USD ($)$ / sharesshares	Jan. 05, 2015USD ($)	Jan. 02, 2014USD ($)shares	Sep. 15, 2015USD ($)	Jul. 24, 2015USD ($)	Jul. 24, 2015CAD	Jun. 15, 2015USD ($)	Sep. 15, 2014USD ($)	Jul. 26, 2013USD ($)	Jul. 26, 2013CADCAD / shares	Dec. 31, 2015USD ($)$ / sharesshares	Dec. 31, 2014USD ($)	Dec. 31, 2013USD ($)	Jul. 31, 2014USD ($)
Consulting Fees											$ 151,428	$ 0	$ 0
Noninterest Expense Directors Fees											107,327	150,199	35,484
Proceeds from Convertible Debt											0	0	9,710,603
Amortization of Financing Costs and Discounts, Total											4,225,311	1,489,682	$ 888,026
Interest Paid, Total											1,214,255	$ 1,145,786
Debt Instrument, Maturity Date	Dec. 8, 2016
Debt Issuance Cost											1,500,000
Payments of Debt Issuance Costs											$ 1,500,000	$ 868,695	$ 0
Class of Warrant or Right, Number of Securities Called by Warrants or Rights | shares	10,000,000
Class of Warrant or Right, Exercise Price of Warrants or Rights | $ / shares	$ 0.95
Warrant Expiration Date	Jun. 8, 2020
Warrant Expiration Term											5 Years
Convertible Debt [Member]
Derivative Liability, Fair Value, Gross Liability											$ 0	1,829,770
Interest Expense, Related Party											94,907	181,479
Amortization of Financing Costs and Discounts, Total											1,947,661	2,692,090
Interest Payable											0	70,721
Interest Paid, Total					$ 153,500	CAD 200,000
Proceeds from (Repayments of) Debt, Total					$ 7,700,000	CAD 10,000,000
January 2014 Loan [Member]
Interest Expense, Related Party											$ 500,000
Additional Charge Percentage											5.00%
Additional Charge Paid		$ 125,000									$ 500,000	375,000
Repayments of Lines of Credit		2,500,000										7,500,000
Interest Paid, Total		125,000										375,000
December 2014 Loan [Member]
Legal Fees											118,695	90,916
Debt Issuance Cost												1,000,000
Payments of Debt Issuance Costs		$ 250,000										750,000
June 2015 Loan [Member]
Legal Fees	$ 46,408
Interest Payable											969,645	250,000
Additional Charge Paid											125,000	125,000
Debt Issuance Cost	$ 1,500,000
Class of Warrant or Right, Number of Securities Called by Warrants or Rights | shares	10,000,000
Class of Warrant or Right, Exercise Price of Warrants or Rights | $ / shares	$ 0.95
Warrant Expiration Date	Jun. 8, 2020
July 2014 Advance [Member]
Debt Instrument, Interest Rate, Stated Percentage														10.00%
Repayments of Lines of Credit								$ 10,000,000
Interest Paid, Total								209,607
Short-term Debt														$ 10,000,000
Proceeds from Divestiture of Interest in Joint Venture								110,000,000
Interest Paid, Capitalized											$ 45,264
July 2014 Advance [Member] | Leucadia [Member]
Short-term Debt														6,500,000
Majority Shareholder [Member] | Convertible Debt [Member]
Proceeds from Convertible Debt									$ 9,710,603	CAD 10,000,000
Debt Instrument, Interest Rate, Stated Percentage										2.00%	2.00%
Debt Instrument, Convertible, Conversion Price | CAD / shares										CAD 1.03
Debt Instrument, Convertible, Terms of Conversion Feature									If the notes had not been converted by the holder prior to the maturity date, then the Company could have converted them at the lower of C$1.03 or the market price as at the maturity date.	If the notes had not been converted by the holder prior to the maturity date, then the Company could have converted them at the lower of C$1.03 or the market price as at the maturity date.
Mr. H. Lutz Klingmann [Member]
Stock Issued During Period, Shares, New Issues | shares											150,000
Thomas M. Clay [Member] | January 2014 Loan [Member]
Debt Instrument, Interest Rate, Stated Percentage			5.00%
Common Stock, Shares Subscribed but Unissued | shares			7,500,000
Maximum [Member]
Noncontrolling Interest, Ownership Percentage by Noncontrolling Owners											20.00%
Maximum [Member] | June 2015 Loan [Member]
Notes and Loans Payable, Total	$ 37,500,000
Minimum [Member] | June 2015 Loan [Member]
Notes and Loans Payable, Total	$ 12,500,000
Auvergne [Member] | July 2014 Advance [Member]
Interest Paid, Total								$ 73,632
Auvergne [Member] | Thomas M. Clay [Member] | July 2014 Advance [Member]
Short-term Debt														$ 3,500,000
President [Member] | Mr. H. Lutz Klingmann [Member]
Payments for Fees											$ 201,312	163,465	192,431
Due to Officers or Stockholders, Current											0	$ 0	$ 47,467
Director [Member] | Thomas M. Clay [Member] | Convertible Debt [Member]
Legal Fees									$ 10,049
Common Stock, Value, Subscriptions | CAD										CAD 7,500,000
Director [Member] | Thomas M. Clay [Member] | January 2014 Loan [Member]
Debt Instrument, Interest Rate, Stated Percentage			5.00%
Notes and Loans Payable, Total			$ 10,000,000
Debt Instrument, Term			12 months
Director [Member] | Thomas M. Clay [Member] | December 2014 Loan [Member]
Debt Instrument, Interest Rate, Stated Percentage												10.00%
Debt Instrument, Maturity Date												Jul. 1, 2015
Short-term Debt												$ 12,500,000
Backstop Agreement [Member]
Rights Offering Maximum Amount											45,000,000
Standby Guarantee Fee											$ 2,250,000
Backstop Agreement [Member] | Maximum [Member]
Sale of Stock, Price Per Share | $ / shares											$ 1.10
Backstop Agreement [Member] | Auvergne [Member]
Standby Guarantee Fee											$ 731,250
Joint Venture Transaction [Member]
Equity Method Investment, Ownership Percentage								50.00%
Related Party, Joint Venture Transaction Description											Gauss is a funding vehicle owned by entities controlled by Leucadia National Corporation (NYSE: LUK) (“Leucadia”) and certain members of the Clay family, a shareholder group which collectively owned approximately 27% of the issued and outstanding shares of Golden Queen (the “Clay Group”) at the time of the transaction. Gauss is owned 70.51% by Gauss Holdings LLC (“Gauss Holdings”, Leucadia’s investment entity) and 29.49% by Auvergne LLC (“Auvergne”, the Clay Group’s investment entity). Pursuant to the transaction, Leucadia was paid a transaction fee of $2,000,000 and $275,000 was paid to Auvergne through GQM LLC in 2014. The Company has adopted an accounting policy of expensing these transaction costs.
Joint Venture Transaction [Member] | Cash [Member]
Restricted Cash and Cash Equivalents											$ 31,531,853	83,282,403
Share Purchase Warants [Member]
Derivative Liability											$ 2,498,269	$ 0
Gauss LLC [Member] | Temporary Non-controlling Interest [Member]
Noncontrolling Interest, Ownership Percentage by Noncontrolling Owners											40.00%
Gauss LLC [Member] | Permanent Non-controlling Interest [Member]
Noncontrolling Interest, Ownership Percentage by Noncontrolling Owners											60.00%
GQ Holdings [Member]
Joint Venture Interest Percentage											50.00%
Payments to Acquire Interest in Joint Venture							$ 12,500,000
Equity Method Investment, Ownership Percentage								50.00%
GQM LLC [Member]
Maximum Percentage of Management Agreement											25.00%
GQM LLC [Member] | December 2014 Loan [Member]
Equity Method Investment, Ownership Percentage												50.00%
GQM LLC [Member] | Maximum [Member]
Noncontrolling Interest, Ownership Percentage by Noncontrolling Owners											20.00%
GQM LLC [Member] | Minimum [Member]
Noncontrolling Interest, Ownership Percentage by Noncontrolling Owners											0.00%
GQM LLC [Member] | Joint Venture Transaction [Member]
Noncontrolling Interest, Ownership Percentage by Noncontrolling Owners											100.00%
GQM LLC [Member] | Joint Venture Transaction [Member] | Maximum [Member]
Percentage of Dilution of Interest in Subsidiary											100.00%
GQM LLC [Member] | Joint Venture Transaction [Member] | Minimum [Member]
Percentage of Dilution of Interest in Subsidiary											50.00%
GQM LLC [Member] | Net Smelter Royalty [Member] | Maximum [Member]
Noncontrolling Interest, Ownership Percentage by Noncontrolling Owners											5.00%
GQM LLC [Member] | Net Smelter Royalty [Member] | Minimum [Member]
Noncontrolling Interest, Ownership Percentage by Noncontrolling Owners											0.00%
Gauss Holdings LLC [Member] | Joint Venture Transaction [Member]
Noncontrolling Interest, Ownership Percentage by Noncontrolling Owners											50.00%
Equity Method Investment, Ownership Percentage								50.00%
Proceeds from Issuance or Sale of Equity, Total				$ 110,000,000

Supplementary Disclosures of 68

Supplementary Disclosures of Cash Flow Information (Details) - USD ($)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014
Cash paid during year for:
Interest	$ 1,214,255	$ 1,145,786
Income taxes	0	0
Non-cash financing and investing activities:
Financing fee and legal fees related to short term debt capitalized	0	1,118,695
Mobile equipment acquired through issuance of debt	19,367,240	926,540
Non-cash amortization of discount and interest expense	1,852,754	2,510,611
Interest payable converted to principal balance on notes payable	1,181,507	0
Mining Properties and Mineral Rights [Member]
Non-cash financing and investing activities:
Common shares issued for mineral property	0	24,480
Asset retirement costs charged to mineral property interests	354,311	71,892
Property, plant, equipment and mineral interests expenditures included in accounts payable	2,857,646	3,097,053
Non-cash interest cost capitalized to mineral property interests	2,762,831	2,412,015
Non-cash amortization of discount and interest expense	$ 4,225,311	$ 1,493,034

Financial Instruments (Details)

Financial Instruments (Details) - USD ($)	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014
Fair Value, Balance Sheet Grouping, Financial Statement Captions [Line Items]
Financial Liabilities Fair Value Disclosure	$ 2,498,269	$ 1,829,770
Fair Value, Inputs, Level 1 [Member]
Fair Value, Balance Sheet Grouping, Financial Statement Captions [Line Items]
Financial Liabilities Fair Value Disclosure	0	0
Fair Value, Inputs, Level 2 [Member]
Fair Value, Balance Sheet Grouping, Financial Statement Captions [Line Items]
Financial Liabilities Fair Value Disclosure	2,498,269	1,829,770
Fair Value, Inputs, Level 3 [Member]
Fair Value, Balance Sheet Grouping, Financial Statement Captions [Line Items]
Financial Liabilities Fair Value Disclosure	0	0
Derivative Liability [Member]
Fair Value, Balance Sheet Grouping, Financial Statement Captions [Line Items]
Financial Liabilities Fair Value Disclosure		1,829,770
Derivative Liability [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 1 [Member]
Fair Value, Balance Sheet Grouping, Financial Statement Captions [Line Items]
Financial Liabilities Fair Value Disclosure		0
Derivative Liability [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 2 [Member]
Fair Value, Balance Sheet Grouping, Financial Statement Captions [Line Items]
Financial Liabilities Fair Value Disclosure		1,829,770
Derivative Liability [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 3 [Member]
Fair Value, Balance Sheet Grouping, Financial Statement Captions [Line Items]
Financial Liabilities Fair Value Disclosure		$ 0
Share Purchase Warrants [Member]
Fair Value, Balance Sheet Grouping, Financial Statement Captions [Line Items]
Financial Liabilities Fair Value Disclosure	2,498,269
Share Purchase Warrants [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 1 [Member]
Fair Value, Balance Sheet Grouping, Financial Statement Captions [Line Items]
Financial Liabilities Fair Value Disclosure	0
Share Purchase Warrants [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 2 [Member]
Fair Value, Balance Sheet Grouping, Financial Statement Captions [Line Items]
Financial Liabilities Fair Value Disclosure	2,498,269
Share Purchase Warrants [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 3 [Member]
Fair Value, Balance Sheet Grouping, Financial Statement Captions [Line Items]
Financial Liabilities Fair Value Disclosure	$ 0

Financial Instruments (Details

Financial Instruments (Details Textual)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015USD ($)	Dec. 31, 2015CAD	Dec. 31, 2014USD ($)
Fair Value, Balance Sheet Grouping, Financial Statement Captions [Line Items]
Cash	$ 37,587,311		$ 91,407,644
Description of Interest Rate Risk Exposure	The Company holds 63% of its cash in bank deposit accounts with a single major financial institution. The interest rates received on these balances may fluctuate with changes in economic conditions. Based on the average cash balances during the year ended December 31, 2015, a 1% decrease in interest rates would have reduced the interest income for 2015 to a trivial amount.
Financial Instruments Disclosure 5	63.00%
Financial Instruments Disclosure 6	1.00%
Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation [Member]
Fair Value, Balance Sheet Grouping, Financial Statement Captions [Line Items]
Cash, FDIC Insured Amount	$ 250,000
Canada Deposit Insurance Corporation [Member]
Fair Value, Balance Sheet Grouping, Financial Statement Captions [Line Items]
Deposits, Total | CAD		CAD 100,000

Earnings (Loss) Per Share (Deta

Earnings (Loss) Per Share (Details) - USD ($)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
Numerator:
Net income (loss) - numerator for basic EPS	$ (5,461,205)	$ (8,469,204)	$ 1,978,014
Amortization of discount	0	0	888,026
Change in derivative liability - Convertible debentures	0	0	(2,907,533)
Change in derivative - Stock options	0	0	(767,419)
Numerator for diluted EPS	$ (5,461,205)	$ (8,469,204)	$ (808,912)
Denominator:
Denominator for basic EPS (in shares)	99,893,341	99,611,278	98,390,561
Effect of dilutive securities:
Employee stock options (in shares)	0	0	132,800
Convertible debenture (in shares)	0	0	4,214,232
Denominator for diluted EPS (in shares)	99,893,341	99,611,278	102,737,593
Basic earnings (loss) per share (in dollars per share)	$ (0.05)	$ (0.09)	$ 0.02
Diluted loss per share (in dollars per share)	$ (0.05)	$ (0.09)	$ (0.01)

Earnings (Loss) Per Share (De72

Earnings (Loss) Per Share (Details Textual) - shares	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
Employee Stock Option [Member]
Antidilutive Securities Excluded from Computation of Earnings Per Share, Amount	1,070,000	750,000	850,000
Warrant [Member]
Antidilutive Securities Excluded from Computation of Earnings Per Share, Amount	10,000,000	0	0

Loan Payable (Details)

Loan Payable (Details) - Mining Equipment [Member] - USD ($)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014
Balance, beginning of year	$ 913,132	$ 0
Additions	23,155,510	1,106,521
Down payments, taxes and principal repayments	(5,695,819)	(193,389)
Balance, end of year	$ 18,372,823	$ 913,132

Loan Payable (Details 1)

Loan Payable (Details 1) - USD ($)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014
Short-term portion	$ 4,942,716	$ 222,839
Long-term portion	13,430,107	690,293
Komatsu financing agreements [Member] | Loans Payable [Member]
Total acquisition costs	$ 24,262,031	$ 1,106,521
Average remaining life (Years)	3 years 5 months 16 days	3 years 10 months 20 days
Short-term portion	$ 4,942,716	$ 222,839
Long-term portion	$ 13,430,107	$ 690,293
Komatsu Mobile Mining Equipment [Member] | Loans Payable [Member] | Minimum [Member]
Interest rates	0.00%	1.80%
Monthly payments	$ 4,669	$ 5,268
Komatsu Mobile Mining Equipment [Member] | Loans Payable [Member] | Maximum [Member]
Interest rates	4.40%	2.99%
Monthly payments	$ 33,906	$ 15,109

Loan Payable (Details 2)

Loan Payable (Details 2) - Loans Payable [Member]	Dec. 31, 2015USD ($)
2,016	$ 4,942,716
2,017	5,126,206
2,018	5,248,707
2,019	3,055,194
Total	$ 18,372,823

Loan Payable (Details Textual)

Loan Payable (Details Textual)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015USD ($)	Dec. 31, 2014USD ($)
Komatsu Mobile Mining Equipment [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Payments to Acquire Productive Assets, Total	$ 3,788,070	$ 179,981
Number Of Equipments Acquired	19	2
Percentage Of Pretax Purchase Price	10.00%
Komatsu Mobile Mining Equipment [Member] | Loans Payable [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Debt Instrument, Term	4 years
Mining Drill Loan [Member] | Loans Payable [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Debt Instrument, Term	3 years

Subsequent Events (Details Text

Subsequent Events (Details Textual) - Subsequent Event [Member]	1 Months Ended
	Jan. 31, 2016USD ($)
Restricted Cash and Cash Equivalents	$ 2,100,000
June 2015 Loan [Member]
Debt Instrument, Increase (Decrease), Net, Total	974,986
Long-term Debt, Gross	$ 39,656,493
Crane [Member]
Percentage Of Down Payment Paid	10.00%
Property, Plant and Equipment, Additions	$ 400,000
Payments to Acquire Productive Assets, Total	60,000
Due to Related Parties, Noncurrent	$ 300,000
Related Party Transaction, Rate	3.90%

Prior Periods Financial Resta78

Prior Periods Financial Restatements (Details) - USD ($)	Dec. 31, 2015	Sep. 30, 2015	Jun. 30, 2015	Mar. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014	Sep. 30, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
Liabilities:
Deferred tax liability		$ 12,922,000	$ 12,922,000	$ 12,922,000	$ 12,922,000	$ 12,922,000
Total liabilities	$ 75,052,894	70,813,299	72,713,117	44,280,690	40,700,513	36,060,376
Shareholders’ Equity:
Additional paid-in capital	43,627,511	43,623,713	43,468,510	43,468,510	43,468,510	43,514,755
Total shareholders’ equity attributable to GQM Ltd.	26,581,933	27,299,722	29,068,686	30,447,950	31,732,709	30,235,822
Total shareholders’ equity	$ 67,267,544	68,283,389	70,219,709	64,526,394	65,983,177	64,631,630	$ 6,240,932	$ 2,413,780
Scenario, Previously Reported [Member]
Liabilities:
Deferred tax liability		0	0	0	0	0
Total liabilities		57,891,299	59,791,117	31,358,690	27,778,513	23,138,376
Shareholders’ Equity:
Additional paid-in capital		56,545,713	56,390,510	56,390,510	56,390,510	56,436,755
Total shareholders’ equity attributable to GQM Ltd.		40,221,722	41,990,686	43,369,950	44,654,709	43,157,822
Total shareholders’ equity		$ 81,205,389	$ 83,141,709	$ 77,448,394	$ 78,905,177	$ 77,553,630

GQM Ltd. Non-Consolidated Inf79

GQM Ltd. Non-Consolidated Information (Details) - USD ($)	Dec. 31, 2015	Sep. 30, 2015	Jun. 30, 2015	Mar. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014	Sep. 30, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
Current assets:
Cash	$ 37,587,311				$ 91,407,644		$ 5,030,522	$ 4,031,403
Receivables	23,962				52,136
Prepaid expenses and other current assets	432,353				114,625
Total current assets	39,979,225				91,574,405
Total Assets	169,444,179				129,517,335
Liabilities:
Accounts payable and accrued liabilities	3,258,692				3,309,476
Interest payable	969,645				320,721
Financing fee payable	0				250,000
Notes payable	36,053,012				13,881,305		0
Derivative liability - Warrants	2,498,269				0
Derivative liability-Convertible debentures	0				1,829,770
Convertible debenture	0				6,649,967		4,642,620
Total current liabilities	47,722,334				26,464,078
Shareholders' Equity
Common shares, no par value, unlimited shares authorized (2014 -unlimited); 99,928,683 (2014 - 99,778,683) shares issued and outstanding	62,860,443				62,709,015
Additional paid-in capital	43,627,511	$ 43,623,713	$ 43,468,510	$ 43,468,510	43,468,510	$ 43,514,755
Deficit accumulated	(79,906,021)				(74,444,816)
Total Shareholders' Equity	67,267,544	$ 68,283,389	$ 70,219,709	$ 64,526,394	65,983,177	$ 64,631,630	6,240,932	2,413,780
Total Liabilities and Shareholders’ Equity	169,444,179				129,517,335
Consolidated Entities [Member]
Current assets:
Cash	5,002,974				4,973,955		$ 4,985,369	$ 4,001,671
Receivables	54,803				129,965
Prepaid expenses and other current assets	43,499				56,122
Total current assets	5,101,276				5,160,042
Mineral interests	5,129,582				2,366,751
Investment in subsidiaries	28,162,449				32,661,592
Due from subsidiaries	27,777,387				14,651,807
Total Assets	66,170,694				54,840,192
Liabilities:
Accounts payable and accrued liabilities	67,835				175,720
Interest payable	969,645				320,721
Financing fee payable	0				250,000
Notes payable	36,053,012				13,881,305
Derivative liability - Warrants	2,498,269				0
Derivative liability-Convertible debentures	0				1,829,770
Convertible debenture	0				6,649,967
Total current liabilities	39,588,761				23,107,483
Shareholders' Equity
Common shares, no par value, unlimited shares authorized (2014 -unlimited); 99,928,683 (2014 - 99,778,683) shares issued and outstanding	62,860,443				62,709,015
Additional paid-in capital	43,627,511				43,468,510
Deficit accumulated	(79,906,021)				(74,444,816)
Total Shareholders' Equity	26,581,933				31,732,709
Total Liabilities and Shareholders’ Equity	$ 66,170,694				$ 54,840,192

GQM Ltd. Non-Consolidated Inf80

GQM Ltd. Non-Consolidated Information (Parenthetical) (Details) - $ / shares	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014
Common Stock, No Par Value	$ 0	$ 0
Common Stock, Shares Authorized, Unlimited	Unlimited	Unlimited
Common Stock, Shares, Issued	99,928,683	99,778,683
Common Stock, Shares, Outstanding	99,928,683	99,778,683
Consolidated Entities [Member]
Common Stock, No Par Value	$ 0	$ 0
Common Stock, Shares Authorized, Unlimited	Unlimited	Unlimited
Common Stock, Shares, Issued	99,928,683	99,778,683
Common Stock, Shares, Outstanding	99,928,683	99,778,683

GQM Ltd. Non-Consolidated Inf81

GQM Ltd. Non-Consolidated Information (Details 1) - USD ($)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
General and administrative expenses	$ (4,615,532)	$ (4,984,750)	$ (2,532,279)
Change in fair value of derivative liability including change in foreign exchange	3,334,224	1,004,217	5,385,660
Operating Expenses, Total	1,281,308	3,980,533	(2,850,859)
Other income (expenses)
Interest expense	(4,507,268)	(1,493,034)	(888,026)
Loss on extinguishment of debt	151,539	$ 0	$ 0
Financing fee	(1,500,000)
Commitment fee	0	$ (2,250,000)	$ 0
Interest income	204,149	126,884	15,181
Net income (loss) before equity in earnings (losses) of subsidiaries	$ (7,235,966)	$ (9,871,683)	$ 1,978,014
Net and comprehensive income (loss) for the year	$ (0.05)	$ (0.09)	$ 0.02
Consolidated Entities [Member]
General and administrative expenses	$ (596,583)	$ (2,998,824)	$ (2,002,240)
Change in fair value of derivative liability including change in foreign exchange	3,334,224	1,004,217	5,385,660
Operating Expenses, Total	2,737,641	(1,994,607)	3,383,420
Other income (expenses)
Interest expense	(4,225,311)	(1,325,339)	(888,026)
Loss on extinguishment of debt	(151,539)	0	0
Financing fee	(1,500,000)	0	0
Commitment fee	0	(2,250,000)	0
Interest income	2,177,147	1,458,932	448,058
Net income (loss) before equity in earnings (losses) of subsidiaries	(962,062)	(4,111,014)	2,943,452
Equity in earnings (losses) of subsidiaries	$ (4,499,143)	$ (4,358,190)	$ (965,438)
Net and comprehensive income (loss) for the year	$ (5,461,205)	$ (8,469,204)	$ 1,978,014

GQM Ltd. Non-Consolidated Inf82

GQM Ltd. Non-Consolidated Information (Details 2) - USD ($)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
Operating activities:
Net income (loss) for the year	$ (7,235,966)	$ (9,871,683)	$ 1,978,014
Adjustments to reconcile net income (loss) to cash used in operating activities:
Amortization of debt discount and interest accrual	4,225,311	1,489,682	888,026
Change in fair value of derivative liabilities including change in foreign exchange	(3,334,224)	(1,004,217)	(5,385,660)
Stock-based compensation	159,001	$ 233,672	$ 475,263
Financing fee related to long-term debt	1,500,000
Loss on extinguishment of debt	151,539	$ 0	$ 0
Foreign exchange	(839,849)	(504,539)	(137,790)
Changes in assets and liabilities:
Receivables	28,174	(38,350)	3,186
Accounts payable and accrued liabilities	188,623	(329,523)	386,666
Interest payable	(951,445)	(1,145,786)	0
Cash used in operating activities	(8,182,110)	(11,153,251)	(1,761,188)
Investment activities:
Cash used in investing activities	(69,305,674)	(21,698,945)	(7,257,659)
Financing activities:
Proceeds from convertible debt	0	0	9,710,603
Borrowing under long-term debt	25,000,000	32,500,000	0
Repayment of short-term debt	(2,500,000)	(17,500,000)	0
Financing fees related to short-term debt	(1,500,000)	(868,695)	0
Repayment of convertible debentures	(7,675,000)	0	0
Issuance of common shares upon exercise of stock options	0	111,421	307,363
Cash provided by financing activities	23,667,451	119,229,318	10,017,966
Net change in cash	(53,820,333)	86,377,122	999,119
Cash, Beginning balance	91,407,644	5,030,522	4,031,403
Cash, Ending balance	37,587,311	91,407,644	5,030,522
Consolidated Entities [Member]
Operating activities:
Net income (loss) for the year	(962,062)	(4,111,014)	2,943,452
Adjustments to reconcile net income (loss) to cash used in operating activities:
Equity in losses (earnings) of subsidiaries	(4,499,143)	(4,358,190)	(965,438)
Amortization of debt discount and interest accrual	4,225,311	1,534,946	888,026
Change in fair value of derivative liabilities including change in foreign exchange	(3,334,224)	(1,004,217)	(5,385,660)
Stock-based compensation	159,001	233,672	475,263
Non-cash consulting expense	151,428	0	0
Financing fee related to long-term debt	1,500,000	0	0
Loss on extinguishment of debt	(151,539)	0	0
Foreign exchange	(839,849)	(504,539)	(137,790)
Changes in assets and liabilities:
Receivables	75,162	(116,178)	3,184
Prepaid expenses and other current assets	12,623	(27,165)	26,311
Accounts payable and accrued liabilities	(107,885)	(177,278)	239,341
Interest payable	(951,445)	(1,145,786)	0
Cash used in operating activities	79,599	(5,317,559)	(947,873)
Investment activities:
Investment in subsidiaries	0	0	(2,418,217)
Advances to subsidiaries	(13,125,580)	(8,936,581)	(5,668,178)
Cash used in investing activities	(13,125,580)	(8,936,581)	(8,086,395)
Financing activities:
Proceeds from convertible debt	0	0	9,710,603
Borrowing under long-term debt	25,000,000	32,500,000	0
Repayment of short-term debt	(2,500,000)	(17,500,000)	0
Financing fees related to short-term debt	(1,500,000)	(868,695)	0
Repayment of convertible debentures	(7,675,000)	0	0
Financing fees related to short-term debt capitalized to the loan	(250,000)	0	0
Issuance of common shares upon exercise of stock options	0	111,421	307,363
Cash provided by financing activities	13,075,000	14,242,726	10,017,966
Net change in cash	29,019	(11,414)	983,698
Cash, Beginning balance	4,973,955	4,985,369	4,001,671
Cash, Ending balance	$ 5,002,974	$ 4,973,955	$ 4,985,369

Income Taxes (Details Textual)

Income Taxes (Details Textual) - USD ($)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
Income Tax Holiday [Line Items]
Valuation Allowance Deferred Tax Asset Increase Decrease Due To Expiration Of Operating Loss Carryforwards	$ 180,000	$ 705,000	$ 2,045,000