Menzies Emerald Project
Overview
The Menzies Emerald Project is located in Western Australia, with mining claims MCs 30/1243 and 30/1245 first issued from 1979 to 1982.
Exploration Potential
Multiple mineralized zones, including No.1, No.2, and No.5 shoots, demonstrate significant potential based on historical drilling and costeaning.
Key findings:
No.1 and No.2 shoots showed green beryl at depths of 20–35 meters, with abundant mineralization over narrow sections.
No.5 shoot revealed potential drag folding, possibly impacting ore reserve estimates.
Feasibility Plan
Testing has shown that soaking rocks in tetra-potassium pyrophosphate solution followed by agitation in an autogenous mill effectively reduces material for manual sorting.
Selective mining of high-grade ore is planned to generate early cash flow and establish market recognition.
Mineral Resources
Historical data from bulk samples and drilling confirm the following:
Mica schists and pegmatites host the emerald mineralization, with higher-grade emeralds predominantly occurring in soft phlogopite mica zones.
Ore reserves are estimated at 971,250 tonnes to a depth of 40 meters, based on specific gravity calculations.
Geological Features
The emerald deposits are found within quartz-potassium feldspar pegmatite surrounded by mica schist, with significant potential for further exploration.
The surface area of many shoots has been disturbed but remains accessible for open-pit mining.
2. The Company (About the Operator)
Company Profile
Menzies Emeralds is a historic project supported by geological and experimental studies over several decades, focusing on resource development and value addition.
Competitive Advantages
Technological Advancements: Initial radiometric sorting experiments using Antimony 124 radioisotopes showed promising results for separating green beryl from host rocks.
Operational Expertise: Historical tests and bulk sampling demonstrated the potential for effective resource recovery and economic viability.
Mining Roadmap
Stage 1: Begin production from No.7 shoot with a pilot-scale wet trommel attrition plant.
Stage 2: Establish a large-scale attrition and recovery mill to handle 25 tonnes per hour, aiming for high-grade emerald recovery.
Community and Environmental Commitments
Initial studies have been conducted to reduce environmental impact, and selective mining practices are planned to preserve the surrounding ecosystem.
3. Investment Highlights
Investment Potential
Historical drilling and testing confirm the presence of high-quality emerald mineralization, making the project commercially viable.
The global market for emeralds continues to grow, ensuring strong demand and profitability.
Projected Returns
Historical recovery data suggests significant returns from high-grade emeralds, with an annual production target exceeding 7.5 million carats of facet-grade rough emeralds.
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