A suite of 24 tonsteins from the East Kootenay Coalfields is studied for mineralogical and elemental composition, origin, and the degree of physical and chemical alteration, using x-ray diffraction (XRD), x-ray fluorescence (XRF), instrumental neutron activation analysis (INAA), and inductively coupled plasma (ICP). Concentration of elements greater than the Clarke value is often limited to the litho-philes, i.e., Al. B, Ba, Cr. Co, Cs, Cu, Fe, K, Rb, Mg, Si, Sr, Th, and U, and some chalcophiles, i.e.. As, Sb, Se, and Mo. However, some lithophiles, such as Br, Ca, and CI, are depleted in these samples. The elements Al, Ca, Co, Hf, K, Mg, Na, Th, Se, U, andREEs (rare earth elements) are sensitive indicators of origin and degree of alteration of these tonsteins. Statistical analyses allow indirect observation of the stages of leaching that have affected the tonsteins.