Latest news with #mineral
Yahoo
7 hours ago
- Business
- Yahoo
Kirkland Lake Discoveries Intersects Intrusion-Related Polymetallic System at KL West Property
Toronto, Ontario--(Newsfile Corp. - August 12, 2025) - Kirkland Lake Discoveries (TSXV: KLDC) (OTCID: KLKLF) ("KLDC" or the "Company") is pleased to announce it has intersected a polymetallic mineral system in its first drill hole, KLD25-28, at the Winnie showing on the KL West property. KLDC intersects significant massive, semi-massive and disseminated sulphides. This drilling confirms the system is intrusion-related, unlocking 17 km of highly prospective intrusion contact potential, with geophysics and geochemistry pointing to the most promising targets. More drilling will be done at the Winnie showing after assays and analysis are complete - regional test drill holes are being conducted currently to test additional intrusion contacts for similar rocks, alteration and mineralization. "The geological characteristics we've encountered in our very first drill hole have exceeded our expectations and fundamentally validate our interpretation of the Winnie system," said CEO Stefan Sklepowicz. "We've encountered the complete intrusion-related deposit fingerprint — intense silicification, magnetite alteration, and multiple styles of sulphide mineralization spanning over 12 meters of core. This geological evidence confirms we're dealing with a large-scale hydrothermal system, not an isolated occurrence. The fact that we intersected this mineralization in proximity to a 17-kilometer intrusive contact provides compelling geological support for our thesis of a district-scale mineralizing system. While we await assays to quantify the grades, the rock textures and alteration assemblages we're seeing are consistent with the deposit models that have created some of the Abitibi's most significant discoveries." Visual inspection of the drill core shows characteristics of intrusion-related mineralization consisting of disseminated, semi-massive and massive sulphides associated with strong silicification. Mineralization includes chalcopyrite, sphalerite, pyrite and magnetite. The alteration and sulphide mineralization styles appear consistent with an intrusion-related VMS or skarnoid-type polymetallic system. Further geological and geochemical analysis as well as additional drilling will be conducted to better understand the mineralizing system. Highlights of Drill Hole KLD25-28: The drill hole intersected a system featuring the key geological markers of a large-scale, intrusion-related deposit: A classic alteration "fingerprint": The core exhibits intense alteration signatures directly associated with this deposit model, including strong silicification and magnetite, indicators of a large, hot, and fertile hydrothermal system (see Figure 1). Multiple Zones of Massive and Disseminated Sulphides: 4.42m of semi-massive to massive sulphides from 23.00m. (Figure 2) 1.14m of massive sulphides from 39.25m. (Figures 3 & 4) An 8.00m zone of disseminated pyrite and chalcopyrite within strongly silicified basalt from 15.00m. Proximity of Winnie Stock: Polymetallic intrusion-related deposits are typically associated with felsic intrusive bodies, where hydrothermal and magmatic contact with surrounding rocks concentrates polymetallic minerals. The Winnie Stock has an untested 17-km perimeter. (Figure 5) Figure 1: Disseminated pyrite and chalcopyrite associated with coarse sphalerite (red-brown) in an intensely silicified basalt (KLD25-28, 20.90m downhole).1 To view an enhanced version of this graphic, please visit: Figure 2: Massive band of chalcopyrite within massive pyrite-chalcopyrite (KLD25-28, 25.5m downhole).1 To view an enhanced version of this graphic, please visit: Figure 3: Massive pyrite with chalcopyrite (KLD25-28, 39.5m downhole).1 To view an enhanced version of this graphic, please visit: Figure 4: Semi-massive to massive pyrite with chalcopyrite (KLD25-28, 40.5m downhole).1 To view an enhanced version of this graphic, please visit: Figure 5: Magnetic survey map (1VD) outlining the approximate 17-km perimeter of the Winnie Intrusion, showing the location of the Winnie Shaft and proposed drill holes. Magnetic highs (red/purple) correspond to areas of interest along the intrusion contact, where gold, copper (intrusion-related) and polymetallic VMS occurrences are documented. Anomalous soil results further highlight high-priority targets along the intrusion margin. KLD25-28 is proximal to the Winnie Shaft. To view an enhanced version of this graphic, please visit: Geological Significance The intersection of intrusion-related polymetallic mineralization at Winnie Lake is a significant breakthrough for the Kirkland Lake camp and the Company's landholdings. The 17-km perimeter of the Winnie Stock, combined with the deposit model, presents strong potential for additional discoveries of this nature. Encountering a system with this combination of intrusive rocks, alteration, and mineralization in the Company's first drill hole is a major technical success and a meaningful step forward in exploration of the area. Within the Blake River Group of rocks, intrusion-related deposits display similar mineralization and alteration as to what has been observed in KLD25-28. Some of the most significant production centers and recent discoveries in the Abitibi are found within the Blake River Group including La Ronde, Horne and Upper Beaver. Samples from drill hole KLD25-28 have been securely transported to the laboratory for analysis. Results are pending and will be released once they are received and verified. Video Footage The latest episode of KLDC's Treasure Hunters YouTube series features video of the core and discussions with Senior Geologist Drake Hyden and CEO Stefan Sklepowicz. QP Statement The technical information contained in this news release has been approved by Mike Kilbourne, Senior geologist and independent contractor, who is a Qualified Person as defined in National Instrument 43-101, Standards of Disclosure for Mineral Projects. About Kirkland Lake Discoveries Corp. Kirkland Lake Discoveries Corp. (TSXV: KLDC) has assembled a 400-km2 exploration portfolio in the Kirkland Lake region of Ontario's Abitibi Greenstone Belt—one of the most prolific mining districts in the world. The Company's properties span key fault zones, geophysical anomalies, and volcanic-sedimentary contacts within the Blake River Group—a highly prospective assemblage known to host both gold and polymetallic VMS deposits. With multiple anomalous soil trends, historical showings, and structural intersections now permitted for exploration, KLDC is advancing a pipeline of drill-ready targets across its KL East and KL West project areas. The team combines strong technical experience with a focus on smart, efficient exploration designed to deliver results. For additional information, please contact: Stefan SklepowiczChief Executive 226 979 3515stefan@ Neither TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release. Forward-Looking Statements Mineralization hosted on adjacent and/or nearby properties is not necessarily indicative of mineralization hosted on the Company's property. This news release contains certain "forward-looking information" and "forward-looking statements" (collectively "forward-looking statements") within the meaning of applicable securities legislation. All statements, other than statements of historical fact, included herein, without limitation, statements relating the future operations and activities of Kirkland Lake Discoveries, are forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements are frequently, but not always, identified by words such as "expects", "anticipates", "believes", "intends", "estimates", "potential", "possible", and similar expressions, or statements that events, conditions, or results "will", "may", "could", or "should" occur or be achieved. Forward-looking statements in this news release relate to, among other things, the Company's drill program, the results thereof, and any impact therefrom. There can be no assurance that such statements will prove to be accurate, and actual results and future events could differ materially from those anticipated in such statements. Forward-looking statements reflect the beliefs, opinions and projections on the date the statements are made and are based upon a number of assumptions and estimates that, while considered reasonable by Kirkland Lake Discoveries, are inherently subject to significant business, economic, competitive, political and social uncertainties and contingencies. Many factors, both known and unknown, could cause actual results, performance or achievements to be materially different from the results, performance or achievements that are or may be expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements and the parties have made assumptions and estimates based on or related to many of these factors. Such factors include, without limitation, the ability to complete proposed exploration work, the results of exploration, continued availability of capital, changes in general economic, market and business conditions, and the ability to obtain any requisite approvals. Readers should not place undue reliance on the forward-looking statements and information contained in this news release concerning these items. Kirkland Lake Discoveries does not assume any obligation to update the forward-looking statements of beliefs, opinions, projections, or other factors, should they change, except as required by applicable securities laws. 1Examples of drill core photos are included to show the different styles of lithology, alteration, and mineralization, and are not necessarily representative of the entire length of specific intervals discussed within this release. To view the source version of this press release, please visit Error in retrieving data Sign in to access your portfolio Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data
Yahoo
3 days ago
- Business
- Yahoo
Some mineral prospecting paused as licences are relinquished
Five of seven mineral prospecting licences (MPLs) granted in Northern Ireland earlier this year have been relinquished, meaning prospecting under those licences will be paused for at least three months. An MPL grants the holder permission to carry out activities like surveys and test drilling in a specific area. It covers minerals like copper and zinc, but not gold and silver as these belong to the Crown Estate. The seven licences were granted to four companies, including Dalradian Gold, in May. The four companies cover areas in at least three counties – Fermanagh, Tyrone and Armagh. The announcement from the Department for the Economy (DfE) comes as a deadline to lodge papers for any legal challenge is set to expire. A statement from the Department added that it had been instructed by Minister Caoimhe Archibald to write to the court to confirm it would not oppose the granting of leave for a judicial review if papers were lodged. And she has also instructed "to advise the objectors and the court that it will write in support of any application to quash the remaining two licences". The applications may be resubmitted, followed by a 12-week consultation period. While the seven licences were granted in May, a public notice of the intention to grant them was not published in the Belfast Gazette, as required by law. The Belfast Gazette is an official journal of record where statutory notices are published, as well as the King's honours lists. DfE previously said the notices were passed to the Gazette but were not published. The four companies – Dalradian Gold, Conroy Gold, Karelian Diamond Resources, and Flintridge Resources – were then asked to relinquish the licences, which they agreed to do. DfE is awaiting confirmation from the holder for the remaining two licences. The licences would allow holders to prospect for minerals, excluding gold and silver. It could lead to full-time mining operations at a later date. 'Back to square one' as gold mine inquiry is suspended
Gizmodo
5 days ago
- Science
- Gizmodo
Scientists Think They Have Found a Brand-New Mineral on Mars
Scientists have a fairly good idea of what Mars' surface looks like. But exactly what that surface is made up of is more of a mystery. Now, scientists believe they have discovered an entirely new mineral on Mars from an unusual layer of iron sulfate with a distinct spectral signature. In a Nature Communications paper published on August 5, astrobiologists led by Janice Bishop at the SETI Institute describe the discovery of an unusual ferric hydroxysulfate compound around Valles Marineris, a vast chasm that sits along Mars' equator. It's an area that researchers suspect once flowed with water, and the new mineral's discovery could offer tantalizing clues as to how and what natural forces sculpted the planet's surface—and whether life once thrived on Mars. Sulfur, an element common to both Mars and Earth, often combines with other elements to form minerals in the form of sulfates. These minerals dissolve easily in water, but unlike Earth, Mars has persistently dry weather, meaning that sulfates may have remained on the surface since the planet lost its water. Studying these minerals, therefore, would uncover important information about Mars' early history. The researchers investigated sulfate-rich areas near Valles Marineris, paying special attention to regions that 'included mysterious spectral bands seen from orbital data, as well as layered sulfates and intriguing geology,' explained Bishop in a statement. In one area, they found layered deposits of polyhydrated sulfates, with monohydrated and ferric hydroxysulfates underneath. They tried to recreate these in the lab, finding that the ferric hydroxysulfate seen on Mars could only have formed in the presence of oxygen and that the reaction needed to produce the compound produces water. Further, this could only have happened at high temperatures, the researchers said, suggesting the sulfates formed from volcanic activity. What's more, its structure and thermal properties suggest it is a totally new mineral. 'The material formed in these lab experiments is likely a new mineral due to its unique crystal structure and thermal stability,' Bishop said. 'However, scientists must also find it on Earth to officially recognize it as a new mineral.'
The Australian
05-07-2025
- Business
- The Australian
NVA puts pedal to critical metal
Antimony prices have jumped from US$12,000/t early last year to more than US$60,000/t, with forecasts above US$100,000/t caused by severe supply constraints At its Estelle Project in Alaska Nova Minerals is drilling aggressively following early high-grade results Nova is targeting military-grade antimony production by 2026 with the ultimate aim of establishing a secure, US-based antimony supply Special Report: As the US Government starts to ramp up support for domestic antimony supply, Nova Minerals' Estelle Project in Alaska is shaping up as a strategic solution and with potential to fast-track production. While a lot of commentary about antimony since the Chinese export ban has focused on its defence uses, another sector has stressed just how critical the mineral is for everyday life. US-based Responsible Battery Coalition executive director Steve Christensen said just ahead of America's summer driving season that the industry group considered its current supply squeeze a 'national emergency'. Christensen said American companies were increasingly having to procure their supply from an emerging "grey market", where sellers that had stocked up on the material were charging extremely high prices. The main applications of antimony are in lead-acid batteries used to start vehicles, as well as the military's explosive formulations - flares, night vision goggles and infrared sensors. Prices for the critical mineral have skyrocketed more than 500 per cent since dominant supplier China restricted imports into the US last September, then followed that up with a complete ban in December. From US$12,000/t at the beginning of 2024 antimony is now US$60,100/t, with some analysts forecasting prices to reach at least US$100,000. One of the key drivers of demand - US defence spending – is set to hit US$1.1 trillion for 2026, a 13 per cent increase on the previous year. In Europe defence budgets rose 17% year-over-year to $693 billion in 2024. And that was before the 5 per cent of GDP target agreed to during last month's NATO meeting of the 32 alliance leaders. Despite this, there are currently no viable domestic antimony mining operations in the US. Demand pull, supply push The Trump administration has recently made a start to rev up American production, seeing the erosion of American supply chains - and the mining industry that supports them - as a major national security concern. As part of that push, US-based company Perpetua Resources was awarded US$59.2 million in Defense Production Act Title III (DPA) funding to advance its Stibnite antimony project in Idaho. Also in May this year it received up to US$6.9 million from the US Army for Stibnite. The Department of Defense (DoD) has invested more than US$870 million over the past four years through DPA grants to bolster the supply of minerals critical to America's economy and defence, and this is expected to accelerate under the current administration. But even with its jump-start cash, Stibnite is estimated to meet only 35 per cent of US antimony demand from its initial six years of production - and that won't begin for at least three years. Nova in a pole position RFC Ambrian said earlier this year that as the antimony market faced 'severe stress', it could identify only nine projects globally that had the potential for near-term antimony production. One of these is Australian explorer and developer Nova Minerals' (ASX:NVA) Estelle Project in Alaska's prolific Tintina belt. While Nova is aiming to upgrade the JORC resource of 9.9Moz gold to the 10Moz milestone, it's also well into a 3000m diamond drill program at Estelle's Stibium prospect. The goal at Stibium is to deliver a maiden mineral resource estimate (MRE) for gold and antimony this year. The first drill hole was designed to test a potential high-grade gold-antimony zone, which was delineated through extensive surface sampling. This confirmed a significant mineralised footprint of about 800 metres by 400 metres. Standout results included 12 rock samples of at least 30 per cent antimony with a high of 60.5 per cent, and 16 samples of more than 5 grams per tonne (g/t) gold with a standout of 141 g/t. Nova is making the most of the near 24-hour daylight during Alaska's summer with round-the-clock drilling on a rotational basis, seven days a week. In other efforts to be a frontrunner in the antimony race, the company has applied for its own DoD funding which is now well advanced through the approvals process. Nova believes that, pending its successful application, it could fast track its assets through to initial production of antimony for military-grade applications by 2026. This would form a key part of its strategy to create a fully secure and integrated US domestic antimony supply chain based in Alaska. Drilling at the Styx prospect is also on this northern summer's schedule after results including up to 54.1% antimony and other high-grade intercepts. Nova CEO Mr Christopher Gerteisen said the campaign's focus was on initiating a maiden resource at the Stibium prospect for both gold and antimony, while also advancing the RPM and Korbel gold deposits toward feasibility and permitting. 'With both antimony and gold trading near historic highs, the strategic significance and potential economic return of these near-surface assets underscore Nova's strong growth trajectory and long-term value proposition.' 'Nova is well advanced in identifying a potential US-based metallurgical refining site and, with potential DoD funding, has the ability to rapidly expand drilling at the site. 'Through our Estelle Project and potential partnerships with other regional sources, we believe Nova is well placed to help re-establish Alaska as a strategic supplier of antimony to the US. This would reinforce supply chain resilience and national security.' This article was developed in collaboration with Nova Minerals, a Stockhead advertiser at the time of publishing. This article does not constitute financial product advice. You should consider obtaining independent advice before making any financial decisions.
News.com.au
13-05-2025
- Business
- News.com.au
Why Andromeda is all fired up about its Great White kaolin project
Once overlooked, kaolin is now attracting serious market interest Andromeda's near-production Great White project is well positioned to address anticipated supply shortfalls once operational. We caught up with Miguel Galindo, an independent non-excutive director at Andromeda, to get his market outlook With demand climbing across global manufacturing hubs for luxury surfaces like sintered stone, ceramics and premium tableware, kaolin – a soft, naturally occurring industrial mineral – is quietly becoming a highly sought after commodity. Global kaolin production in 2023 was around 40–45 million tonnes, but only a small portion, under 5%, qualifies for use in high-performance ceramic applications. While demand for lower-grade kaolin remains stable, the momentum is in high-purity, high-brightness kaolin in key markets like Asia and Europe where advanced ceramics and engineered materials are on the rise thanks to growing consumer trends towards large-format tiles and countertops. Yet, declining reserves and rising geopolitical tensions are limiting the availability of high-quality supply, driving up prices and prompting manufacturers to become more selective in sourcing. Australia isn't typically considered a leading player in the kaolin market but with Andromeda Metals' (ASX:ADN) near-production Great White deposit, that could soon change. The company's project is backed by 15.1Mt in high-grade ore reserves and has customers lined up with 100% of the planned capacity for Stage1A+ by four binding off-take agreements. Lab work using kaolin from the project has also demonstrated the technical feasibility of producing HPA, validating the company's flow sheet design. More recently, investors demonstrated their confidence in Great White by backing a $5m share placement to help fund early works, advance plant design and engineering along with technical, financial and legal activities to support the funding process at the project. Stockhead sat down with Andromeda's independent non-executive director Miguel Galindo to get his take on the Great White project, the wider kaolin market and Andromeda's potential to reposition Australia on the global stage. What makes Andromeda's Great White project unique in terms of its characteristics when compared to others around the world? 'The Great White Project is one of the few kaolin deposits globally capable of producing ultra-high purity kaolin with extremely low levels of iron and titanium – key traits for top-tier ceramic applications. 'Its outstanding whiteness and firing consistency make it ideally suited for premium porcelain tiles, ceramic wall tiles, sintered stone and fine tableware. 'Importantly, the deposit contains halloysite, a rare tubular form of kaolin, that adds distinct value in the high-end tableware segment by enhancing the manufacturing process and final finish of products.' The company is currently working towards final approvals and FID for Stage 1A+; what is your expected construction and production timeline? 'The Great White Project is development-ready, with all key approvals received to commence construction. 'To support a Final Investment Decision being made, a project funding process is currently underway. In April, Andromeda entered exclusive negotiations with Merricks Capital for a debt-financing facility of up to $75 million. 'Subject to a positive Final Investment Decision, we expect to commence construction in the second half of this year, with a construction period of 12 months until commissioning of the first stage producing 55,000 tonnes of annual production, and a further three months for commissioning for an additional 45,000 tonnes. 'This positions us to initiate production and first deliveries by mid-to-late next year. Our development approach through Stage 1A+ is modular and market-driven, allowing flexibility in scaling production to align with market demand.' Andromeda has offtake agreements lined up with Traxys, IberoClays, Plantan Yamada and Foashan Goaming – but what will the company's kaolin primarily be used for? 'Our kaolin is targeted at high-performance ceramic applications, including porcelain and ceramic wall tiles, sintered stone and tableware. 'These markets require very high brightness, whiteness, and consistency, and our product delivers precisely that – the halloysite component is particularly prized in fine tableware manufacturing due to its contribution to improved forming during manufacture and the final finish of the product. 'Our goal is to serve ceramic producers who demand the highest standards – many of whom are based in or influenced by Europe. 'For example, IberoClays is based in Spain and formulates mixtures for companies that create high-end ceramics tiles and countertops. While Plantan Yamada is a Japanese manufacturer and exporter of high-quality porcelain tableware products.' Who are the major global producers of kaolin (by country) and where does Europe factor into it? 'Leading producers include the United States, Brazil, China, the UK and Ukraine. 'Each country serves different markets and offers varying grades – the US is dominant in production of kaolin used in industrial processes and for making paper, while kaolin from Brazil and China is used to serve ceramics manufacturers. Ukraine has historically been a significant supplier of high-grade ceramic kaolin to Europe. 'Europe, particularly Spain and Italy, plays a central role not only as a consumer of high-quality kaolin, but also as a global trendsetter in the ceramics industry. 'These countries are home to some of the most advanced ceramic manufacturers and equipment producers, whose standards and innovations influence product design and production technologies worldwide. 'Securing a presence in the European tile market is therefore strategic – not just for sales, but for visibility, credibility and long-term growth in the premium ceramics sector.' Are there supply gaps in the market given a large part of Ukraine's resources has fallen under Russian occupation? 'Yes – Ukraine has long been a critical supplier of kaolin for European ceramics. 'The ongoing conflict has compromised both the physical supply and logistical routes, resulting in almost all of its production being removed from the market. 'This is creating supply gaps that have forced manufacturers to seek new, reliable alternatives – particularly those outside the conflict zone and with similar quality specifications. How can Andromeda help plug those supply gaps? 'Andromeda offers a stable, transparent, and ESG-compliant alternative source of high-grade kaolin. 'Located in South Australia, the Great White Project provides a long-term, scalable supply that meets the purity and consistency standards sought by European and Asian ceramic producers. 'Our existing partnerships and distribution agreements are already aligning us with the supply needs of ceramic leaders looking to de-risk their sourcing strategies.'
