An adsorbent composition comprising particles consisting of a core which is at least partially coated with an adsorbent material is disclosed. The core is selected so that it has at least one of: (i) wear resistance; (ii) resistance to corrosive conditions; (iii) at least one thermoplastic material; and (iv) a low porosity. A suitable core material is polystyrene. Adsorbent materials suitable for the coating include activated carbon and metal oxides such as silica and alumina. The adsorbent composition may be used for the adsorption of metals and metal ions in ore processing, for instance for the separation of precious metals such as gold.