Exhibit 23.1 The Board of Directors, Zemex Corporation, Dear Sirs: INDEPENDENT AUDITORS' CONSENT We hereby consent to the incorporation by reference in the prospectus constituting part of the Registration Statements on Form S-4 "No. 333-65307", and in the Registration Statements on Form S-8 "Nos. 33-60291 and 333-00561" of Zemex Corporation, of our report dated November 6, 1998 included in this Form 10-K/A-1 of Zemex Corporation for the year ended December 31, 1997, with respect to the consolidated financial statements, as amended. /s/ Deloitte & Touche LLP Deloitte & Touche LLP Chartered Accountants December 9, 1998