TIDMAAU
RNS Number : 2992U
Ariana Resources PLC
02 December 2021
2 December 2021
AIM: AAU
240% INCREASE IN JORC RESOURCE AT KOKKINOYIA SECTOR
Ariana Resources plc ("Ariana" or "the Company"), the AIM-listed
mineral exploration and development company with interests in gold
mining operations in Europe, is pleased to announce the results of
a review of the Mineral Resource Estimate ("MRE") for the
Kokkinoyia Sector of the Magellan Project. The Project is 100%
owned by Venus Minerals Ltd ("Venus") which is focused on the
exploration and development of copper and gold assets in Cyprus and
is 50% owned by Ariana.
Highlights:
-- JORC 2012 MRE updated internally by Ariana and Venus using new and historical drilling data.
-- Total Indicated and Inferred Resource of c. 12.3 Mt at a
grade of 0.31 to 2.25% Cu and 0.27 to 0.57 g/t Au across multiple
zones of mineralisation at Kokkinoyia*.
-- Gold mineralisation occurs across several distinct zones,
along with zinc and silver in places.
-- Exploration Target for gold established for an additional
tonnage of 3-4Mt at a grade of 0.3-0.4 g/t Au, for an additional
30,000 to 70,000 oz of gold.
-- Joint UK and Cypriot partnership advancing copper mining opportunities in Cyprus.
Dr. Kerim Sener, Managing Director, commented:
"This is an exceptional result and we are very proud of the
Ariana and Venus teams having successfully completed the drilling
programme and in pulling together this new resource estimate for
Kokkinoyia. Not only has the overall tonnage increased by 240% but
we have now successfully brought a significant part of the
resources into the higher confidence Indicated category.
"In addition, as we had predicted, the Kokkinoyia deposit
contains a substantial amount of gold, in association with copper
and zinc. The fact that the deposit contains a substantial tonnage
of mineralised material across several domains beyond what was
already understood from the historical work bodes well for future
exploration and resource drilling. We are already well on track
with not only meeting but also exceeding our management target for
the project and any additional work at this site is likely to yield
further upside .
"Venus will now be looking into the potential to integrate a
part of the Kokkinoyia Sector with the planned Apliki Copper Mine
development project as a means to fast-tracking this deposit into
production."
* Further information about Venus Minerals and its projects is
available on the Company's website, www.venusminerals.co .
* All Mineral Resource figures in the announcement are quoted
gross with respect to Venus, of which 50% is owned by Ariana.
The information contained within this announcement is deemed by
the Company to constitute inside information as stipulated under
the Market Abuse Regulations (EU) No. 596/2014 as it forms part of
UK Domestic Law by virtue of the European Union (Withdrawal) Act
2018 ("UK MAR").
Introduction
Since 2018, the Venus and Ariana teams have worked to understand
the characteristics of the Kokkinoyia Sector and, more importantly,
the distribution of various major metals within the deposit. In
October 2020 (see announcement date 15 Oct 2020), the first modern
MRE was completed at Kokkinoyia, following an extensive review of
all historical logging, assay and structural data available for the
Project. The result of this work led to a detailed understanding of
the style of copper mineralisation, the distribution of High Grade
Copper massive sulphides, and the controls on resource domains due
to structural discontinuities. However, the limited nature of the
assay database only provided enough information to understand
copper and pyrite distribution within the deposit, which at the
time of drilling (1950's-1980s), was the primary focus for the
Project.
M ining records for Kokkinoyia from the 1970s show that the
copper concentrates contained on average 5g/t of gold, suggesting
that gold was a major component of the mineralisation system. In
following up this observation, the Venus team collected a total of
29 grab and composite samples from historic stockpiles to analyse
for gold and other elements. Almost all samples returned anomalous
gold values, with the best results including:
-- 5.16g/t Au + 37.6g/t Ag
-- 3.56g/t Au + 27.8g/t Ag
-- 2.16g/t Au + 9.6g/t Ag
-- 1.55g/t Au + 22.9g/t Ag
-- 1.29g/t Au + 18.0g/t Ag
The average gold content of all 29 grab samples was 0.8g/t Au.
This represented a significant pivot point for the future planning
of exploration activities at Kokkinoyia. It was clear that the next
phase of the Project's development would require a full suite of
multi-element analysis, with a particular emphasis on gold. It was
also necessary for Venus to plan several drill holes to
specifically test significant historic intercepts, as this would be
key to increasing confidence in the existing 41,315 meters of
historic drilling at Kokkinoyia.
On 7 July 2021, the first Venus drilling results for Kokkinoyia
were announced. This was later followed up with further results
announced on 6 October 2021. A combination of angled PQ and HQ
diamond drilling was used to test the eastern and western flanks of
the historic Kokkinoyia open pit, where the holes aimed to test
residual mineralisation beneath and around existing workings,
primarily over the Kokkinoyia West area of the deposit. Further
work on Kokkinoyia East is planned and will be scheduled in the
next phase of drilling at the Project.
Key intercepts from the 2021 diamond drilling include:
-- VMD002 (128m to 146.9m) for 18.9m @ 0.86% Cu + 1.54g/t Au + 0.55% Zn
o Including 138m to 141m for 3m @ 4.40% Cu + 6.24g/t Au + 0.82%
Zn
-- VMD004 (90m to 132.2m) for 42.2m @ 0.55g/t Au + 0.27% Zn
-- VMD002 (77m to 92m) for 15m @ 0.54% Cu + 0.16g/t Au
-- VMD010 (55m to 64m) for 9m @ 0.72% Cu + 0.43g/t Au + 0.29% Zn
o Including 58m to 61m for 3m @ 1.44% Cu + 0.72% Au + 0.38%
Zn
These results from Venus' 2021 work provided confidence to
several major historic intercepts forming the bulk of the
mineralisation volume for Kokkinoyia West, and as a result, a major
proportion of the Kokkinoyia West resources have been upgraded, and
now classified as Indicated.
Closer inspection of historic drilling versus the new 2021
drilling has confirmed that historic grades and intercept widths
are locally overstated, likely a result of the historic drilling
methods (including downhole smearing) and limitations to laboratory
techniques/equipment, and as such until further drilling can be
completed, the majority of the Project's resources expanding beyond
Kokkinoyia West will remain in the Inferred category.
In addition to confirming the copper grades of historic
drilling, the 2021 drilling also identified significant extensions
of new and highly anomalous copper and gold mineralisation where
sections of the historic drilling appear to have not been sampled
(likely due to the low content of visible sulphides), or where
there was a lack of gold assay values, and/or where low copper
grades (0.1-0.2% Cu) may not have been appropriately defined by
historic laboratory equipment.
Portable XRF analysis was systematically undertaken on all the
2021 drill core at 1m intervals, resulting in the identification of
all possible mineralisation zones before the core was cut for
laboratory geochemical analysis. These newly identified zones have
added a significant new understanding and additional mineralisation
volume to the Kokkinoyia deposit. Notable zinc values, ranging from
0.1% to 4.06%, have also been identified within several key
mineralisation intercepts. Like gold, zinc assays within the
historic data are also largely absent, and the new 2021 drilling
results provide insight into the potential distribution of the
metal within the deposit.
A significant new development in the Kokkinoyia geological
modelling for the 2021 MRE is the domaining of sulphur values as a
means for capturing the full extents of the Kokkinoyia system
(Figure 1 and Figure 2). Sulphur is the most abundant assay result
throughout all the historic data, and represents the presence and
concentration of pyrite, which is the most notable sulphide mineral
associated with all (copper, gold and zinc) mineralisation zones
documented at Kokkinoyia.
Previous MREs at Kokkinoyia focused on capturing and domaining
the extents of copper mineralisation only, as no other assay data
was available to correlate sulphur rich zones with zinc or gold,
resulting in a very limited volume for resource estimation. Using
the sulphur assay values to create a much larger mineral system
volume has allowed the latest estimation work to build sub-domains
for the various attributing metals resulting in a more
comprehensive MRE. However, to date, only Kokkinoyia West has
sufficient supporting multi-element data to suitably create metal
subdomains. Further drilling is required to test Kokkinoyia East
and all peripheral areas including the potential resources at
depth.
http://www.rns-pdf.londonstockexchange.com/rns/2992U_1-2021-12-1.pdf
Figure 1: Plan view of the Kokkinoyia Project, showing the 2021
drill collar positions and historical collars. The 2020 MRE
mineralisation domain is highlighted in pink and the new 2021 MRE
1% sulphur domain is outlined in yellow. Copper, gold and zinc
domains were sub-domained within the extents of the sulphur parent
domain.
Resource Estimation
The MRE is based on a detailed review of all available drill
data acquired between 1950s-1980's, as well as nine diamond
drillholes drilled in 2021. This data comprises of wireline, rotary
open hole percussion, Schramm T64 and diamond drill holes for a
total of 42,895 meters of drilling (all historic holes and the 2021
drilling) and covers all major areas of the Kokkinoyia project
(Kokkinoyia West and Kokkinoyia East). The use of modern software
with improved estimation methods and statistical analysis enables
the calculation of a MRE with sufficient confidence to be
classified as Indicated and Inferred. However, the drill hole
spacing for the project is generally appropriate to support higher
classification of resources in some areas, but this will require
more confirmatory drilling to validate and increase confidence in
the historic data. JORC Table 1 (Appendix 1) for Kokkinoyia
provides more detail on sampling techniques and data used in this
estimation.
Estimation Methodology
Ariana completed the geological modelling of all mineralised
zones at Kokkinoyia in Leapfrog Geo 6.0.5 (see JORC Table 1,
Appendix 1). Six mineralisation domains, representing metal zoning
within the deposit, were modelled from sectional interpretations
and associated interpolation, representing the most current
geological data and understanding. The MRE is separated into two
main areas: 1) Kokkinoyia West, and 2) Kokkinoyia East.
Parent Sulphur Domain
In excess of 85% of the Kokkinoyia deposit is identified as
sulphide or sulphide transitional to oxide, with the major
contributing sulphide mineral of the deposit being pyrite.
Therefore, to create a representative volume of the Kokkinoyia
mineralisation extents, the distribution of pyrite was modelled
using composites of sulphur at a 1% modelling cut-off (CoG) across
the Kokkinoyia area as a whole. This parent volume was then used to
create sub-domains of copper, zinc and gold within, where enough
data was available (Figure 2).
Zinc Domain
Zinc shows a generally weak association with copper and appears
to primarily form in association with gold in its own zone at the
upper limits of the deposit, forming an enriched "cap", with only
partial overlap across lower-grade copper mineralisation which
occurs directly below. The 2021 drilling has provided enough data
to construct a zinc domain clipped to within the parent sulphur
domain.
High Grade Copper Domain
High Grade (HG) copper (>1% Cu) in the form of massive
sulphide lenses is well known and documented within the Kokkinoyia
deposit. These are notably clustered within the deposit in two main
areas, Kokkinoyia East and Kokkinoyia West, which are separated by
a SE-NW normal fault, dissecting and compartmentalising the two
areas, without significant offset. Generally, the Kokkinoyia East
area is more structurally complex and contains higher grades of
mineralisation. Kokkinoyia West is estimated to contain more
resource tonnage than Kokkinoyia East. High Grade Copper attributed
as massive sulphides were modelled or sub-domained within the
sulphur parent domain using copper composites at 1% Cu (CoG). It is
important to note that the mass majority of HG copper at Kokkinoyia
has been mined by historic underground extraction, and where tested
by the 2021 drilling, showed minimal remaining mineralisation.
However, voids intersected contained backfill which mostly
contained significantly anomalous zinc, gold and copper (see
announcement dated 6 October 2021).
Low Grade Copper Domain
Low grade (LG) copper (<1% Cu) mostly as disseminated
sulphides within highly altered pillow lavas, were remodelled
within the deposit since the October 2020 MRE was announced. In
this latest iteration, LG copper was modelled using calculated
composites at a 0.1% Cu modelling CoG. This was done to allow
better continuity between the main LG copper domain and isolated
copper zones, but also to ensure suitable filling of the sulphur
parent domain where lower (0.1-0.2%) copper grades were
present.
Confirmed Gold Domain
Gold within Kokkinoyia is noted to exceed 0.1g/t within all
metal zones throughout the system, but particularly in association
with zinc. More interestingly, gold appears to also form in
isolation of the other metals towards the base of the deposit,
where zones of highly silicified host rocks display finely
disseminated sulphides and pyritic veinlets. Further analysis of
all the gold assay results from the 2021 diamond drilling
identified at least two statistical populations of gold, further
supporting multiple relationships or phases of gold mineralisation
within the deposit. Gold in isolation was modelled using calculated
composites at a 0.1g/t modelling CoG.
Extrapolated Gold - Exploration Target
Based on the domaining of gold in isolation, and where
sufficient coverage from the 2021 drilling has demonstrated
mineralisation continuity, it has been noted that gold at
concentrations of 0.1-0.5g/t are associated with sulphur values
averaging 10%. Therefore, any volume within the parent sulphur
domain which has not been occupied by the zinc, copper (HG and LG)
or confirmed gold subdomains and, where filtered using sulphur
concentrations at 10%, would represent a likely gold target
volume.
http://www.rns-pdf.londonstockexchange.com/rns/2992U_1-2021-12-1.pdf
Figure 2: 2021 MRE model domains of all Kokkinoyia
mineralisation areas.
Interpolation and wireframe modelling of the mineralised zones
in Leapfrog EDGE was completed using various metal cut-off grades
(CoG) as stated above. High Grade Copper mineralisation lenses
within the Kokkinoyia Sector were individually and separately
reviewed. As a result, these zones are modelled with their own
mineralisation domains using a 1% Cu modelling CoG. All models were
created based upon interval selections that referenced appropriate
copper, zinc and gold grades, lithological descriptions and
structural interpretation, where appropriate. Where continuity was
not established between sections, the strike extrapolation was
limited both manually (wireframes) and statistically
(interpolations). The continuity of the various structures is
reflected in the MRE classification.
Specific gravity was determined using a regional statistical
study of Cypriot VMS systems, detailing the variation of density
with increasing sulphur content. Using this data, bulk density was
filtered into each block according to its attributed average
sulphur value. Densities ranged from 2.1g/cm(3) where sulphur is
<5%, and up to 3.5g/cm(3) where sulphur exceeded 30%.
Compositing was completed in Leapfrog EDGE as part of a
Quantitative Kriging Neighbourhood Analysis (QKNA), identifying 3m
composites as statistically appropriate for the Kokkinoyia Sector.
Hard domain boundaries were applied to the deposit models, which
forced all samples to be included in one of the composites by
adjusting the composite length, while keeping it as close as
possible to the selected intervals of 3m.
Top-cut analysis was completed by viewing in three-dimensions
the composite distributions according to grade within the various
domains. Generally, high grade samples correlate well with logged
massive sulphide lenses or are distributed in clusters. These were
accordingly modelled as individual high-grade domains. Exceptions
to this included the Kokkinoyia East high-grade domain, where the
upper limits were fixed to 8% Cu. Other modelled domains generally
did not have undue bias at higher-grades and therefore no other
top-cut was applied.
Good variogram model fits were primarily achieved for the Low
Grade Copper domain. Data examined for Kokkinoyia East generally
contained a sufficient sample population for variography analysis,
however, good variography was difficult to achieve, probably due to
structural complexities which require the domain to be further
sub-domained for better variography analysis. Sample populations
for the High Grade Copper, Zinc and Gold domains were generally
low, however, using visual checks and trend surfaces,
representative variography was achieved.
A non-rotated sub-block model was established for the whole of
Kokkinoyia. Block sizes were determined by the completion of a QKNA
study. The optimal parent block sizes were determined to be 15m x
10m x 5m (X, Y, Z), sub-blocked to 5m x 5m x 5m (X, Y, Z).
Sub-blocks received parent block grades during estimation and
grades were estimated using Ordinary Kriging, adopting a multi-pass
methodology.
http://www.rns-pdf.londonstockexchange.com/rns/2992U_1-2021-12-1.pdf
Figure 3: Plan and sectional view of the Kokkinoyia block model
colour coded according to the metal zoning in the deposit (blue =
zinc, orange = LG copper, magenta = HG copper, yellow = gold only
and grey = gold target.
Resource Classification
The MRE is classified in accordance with the JORC Code (2012) as
Indicated and Inferred resources (Tables 1A - 1D). The Kokkinoyia
deposit has sufficient subsurface geological and geochemical data
for the resource to be classified with higher confidence as
Measured or Indicated resources. However, such a classification is
currently limited by the historic nature of the majority of the
drilling database and this data cannot be audited, as no reference
samples have been archived. Further validation will be required for
an upgrade in classification, using twin-holes where necessary.
The MRE for the Project (Table 1) uses a reporting cut-off of
0.2% Cu and 1% Cu for Low Grade and High Grade Copper (massive
sulphide) domains, respectively, and demonstrates that there are
reasonable prospects for eventual economic extraction (Table 1A -
1B). A reporting cut-off of 0.2g/t Au is used for the gold (Table
1C) and zinc (Table 1D) domains. Confidence in the MRE is
sufficient to allow the results to be used in further technical and
economic studies. Additional confidence in the data obtained from
historic drilling is required in order to advance further
understanding of the Project.
Recent drilling provides greater confidence across parts of the
Kokkinoyia Project, and in such areas the resources have been
classified as Indicated. However, all remaining resources have been
classified as Inferred until further drilling work is completed. As
well as significant classification upgrades, there is potential for
an increase in resource tonnage with further drilling.
The styles of mineralisation have been identified, the controls
on mineralisation are sufficiently understood and measurements and
sampling completed to a reasonable degree of confidence for the
mineralisation present.
Depletion of the resource in the High Grade Copper Domains by
means of historical underground production has been calculated
based on government production records for Kokkinoyia for over
470kt ore. The High Grade Copper Domain in the final resource was
then depleted by these assumed underground production figures of
474,500 tonnes. Future studies will aim to determine the true
positioning and extent of UG workings, and calculate a spatially
more accurate depletion for the UG part of the resource.
Table 1: Summary of 2021 Kokkinoyia MRE, in accordance with JORC
2012, based on 210 drill holes (42,895 m) across the Kokkinoyia
Sector (2 December 2021). Each domain is presented separately in
detail in Table 1A-1D, below. Figures in the tables may not sum
precisely due to rounding. The MRE is reported gross to Venus of
which 50% are net attributable to Ariana's 50% ownership of
Venus.
Table Classification Domain Average Value Material Content
---------------- -------- =========== ======== ========== =========================== ====================================
Volume Density Mass Cu Au Zn S Cu Au Zn S
---------------- -------- =========== ======== ========== ===== ===== ===== ====== ======== ======= ====== =========
m(3) g/cm(3) t % g/t % % t oz t t
---------------- -------- ----------- -------- ---------- ----- ----- ----- ------ -------- ------- ------ ---------
HG
A Inf Cu 246,900 3.18 785,800 2.25 n/a n/a 27.70 17,700 n/a n/a 217,700
------- ---------------- -------- ----------- -------- ---------- ----- ----- ----- ------ -------- ------- ------ ---------
LG
B Ind Cu 1,510,000 2.74 4,140,900 0.39 0.27 n/a 11.17 16,200 35,900 n/a 462,500
------- ---------------- -------- ----------- -------- ---------- ----- ----- ----- ------ -------- ------- ------ ---------
B Inf 2,321,400 2.47 5,727,500 0.31 0.27 n/a 7.47 17,500 49,700 n/a 427,600
------- -------------------------- ----------- -------- ---------- ----- ----- ----- ------ -------- ------- ------ ---------
C Inf Au 216,800 2.67 579,800 n/a 0.36 0.10 10.75 n/a 6,800 600 62,300
------- ---------------- -------- ----------- -------- ---------- ----- ----- ----- ------ -------- ------- ------ ---------
D Inf Zn 424,300 2.61 1,109,000 0.33 0.57 0.36 9.89 3,700 20,300 4,000 109,600
------- ---------------- -------- ----------- -------- ---------- ----- ----- ----- ------ -------- ------- ------ ---------
Table 1A : Summary of the High Grade Copper Domain resources
comprised of Massive Sulphide Material. Reporting is based on a 1%
Cu cut-off grade. Gold is likely to be present in this Massive
Sulphide material, but there is not sufficient data at present to
determine this with sufficient confidence. The resource has been
depleted based on historical production figures which state
474,500kt of ore was mined. The MRE is reported gross to Venus of
which 50% are net attributable to Ariana's 50% ownership of
Venus.
Kokkinoyia Average Metal Content
2021 MRE Value
DEPLETED
HG Copper
Domains
============================ ============= =================
Volume Density Mass Cu S Cu S
======== ======== ======== ===== ====== ======= ========
m(3) g/cm(3) t % % t t
-------- -------- -------- ----- ------ ------- --------
High
Inferred Grade 246,900 3.18 785,800 2.25 27.70 17,700 217,700
---------- -------- -------- -------- -------- ----- ------ ------- --------
Table 1B : Summary of the Low Grade Copper Domain resources.
Reporting is based on a 0.2% Cu cut-off grade. The gold grade has
been extrapolated from the Indicated resources onto the Inferred
resources, as not enough data exists in the inferred resource
estimation to calculate gold content. The MRE is reported gross to
Venus of which 50% are net attributable to Ariana's 50% ownership
of Venus.
Kokkinoyia 2021 MRE Average Value Material Content
LG Copper Domain
=========== ======== ========== ==================== ==============================
Volume Density Mass Cu Au S Cu Au S
=========== ======== ========== ===== ===== ====== ======== ======== ==========
m(3) g/cm(3) t % g/t % t oz t
----------- -------- ---------- ----- ----- ------ -------- -------- ----------
Indicated Low Grade 1,510,000 2.74 4,140,900 0.39 0.27 11.17 16,200 35,900 462,500
=========== =========== =========== ======== ========== ===== ===== ====== ======== ======== ==========
Inferred Low Grade 2,321,400 2.47 5,727,500 0.31 0.27 7.47 17,500 49,700 427,600
----------- ----------- ----------- -------- ---------- ----- ----- ------ -------- -------- ----------
Total 3,831,400 2.58 9,868,300 0.34 0.27 9.02 33,800 85,700 890,100
----------------------- ----------- -------- ---------- ----- ----- ------ -------- -------- ----------
Table 1C : Summary of the Gold Domain resources. Reporting is
based on a 0.2g/t Au cut-off grade. The MRE is reported gross to
Venus of which 50% are net attributable to Ariana's 50% ownership
of Venus.
Kokkinoyia Average Value Material Content
2021 MRE
Gold Domain
======== ======== ========= ======================= ===========================
Volume Density Mass Au Zn S Au Zn S
======== ======== ========= ===== ======= ======= ========== ===== ========
m(3) g/cm(3) t g/t % % oz t t
-------- -------- --------- ----- ------- ------- ---------- ----- --------
Inferred 216,800 2.67 579,800 0.36 0.10 10.75 6,800 600 62,300
-------------- -------- -------- --------- ----- ------- ------- ---------- ----- --------
Table 1D : Summary of the Zinc Domain resources. Reporting is
based on a 0.2g/t Au cut-off grade, rather than zinc, so as to
better define the contained gold resources. The MRE is reported
gross to Venus of which 50% are net attributable to Ariana's 50%
ownership of Venus.
Kokkinoyia Average Value Material Content
2021 MRE
Zinc Domain
======== ======== ========== ========================== =================================
Volume Density Mass Cu Au Zn S Cu Au Zn S
======== ======== ========== ===== ===== ===== ===== ====== ======= ====== ========
m(3) g/cm(3) t % g/t % % t t. oz t t
-------- -------- ---------- ----- ----- ----- ----- ------ ------- ------ --------
Inferred 424,300 2.61 1,109,000 0.33 0.57 0.36 9.89 3,700 20,300 4,000 109,600
-------------- -------- -------- ---------- ----- ----- ----- ----- ------ ------- ------ --------
The limited nature of assay data for gold in the database has
significantly limited the extent of the gold domain to the area in
which gold data is available. Data analysis has shown a strong and
reliable correlation of gold with sulphur grades, for which data is
available across the whole deposit. Using this correlation, an
Exploration Target for gold across the Kokkinoyia project has been
defined through modelling of sulphur distribution (Table 2).
Table 2: Exploration Target for Gold at Kokkinoyia, based on
sulphur content of the gold domain defined in this MRE.
Exploration Target for Gold
Tonnage 3 - 6 Mt
============== =================
Grade 0.3 - 0.4 g/t Au
============== =================
Metal content 30 - 70 koz Au
-------------- -----------------
Contacts:
Ariana Resources plc Tel: +44 (0) 20 3476
2080
Michael de Villiers, Chairman
Kerim Sener, Managing Director
Beaumont Cornish Limited Tel: +44 (0) 20 7628
3396
Roland Cornish / Felicity Geidt
Panmure Gordon (UK) Limited Tel: +44 (0) 20 7886
2500
John Prior / Hugh Rich / Atholl Tweedie
Yellow Jersey PR Limited Tel: +44 (0) 20 3004
9512
Dominic Barretto / Henry Wilkinson arianaresources@yellowjerseypr.com
/ Matthew McHale
Editors' Note:
The MRE was prepared by Zack van Coller BSc (Hons), Special
Projects Geologist, Ariana Resources plc. Mr. van Coller is a
Competent Person as defined by the JORC Code, 2012 Edition. The
estimate was reviewed internally by Ruth Bektas BSc (Hons) CGeol
EurGeol, Projects Analyst, Ariana Resources plc. Miss Bektas is a
Competent Person as defined by the JORC Code, 2012 Edition. The
results are reported in accordance with the JORC Code, under the
direction of Dr. Kerim Sener BSc (Hons), MSc, PhD, Managing
Director of Ariana Resources plc, and a Competent Person as defined
by the JORC Code. Mr. van Coller and Dr. Sener have reviewed the
technical and scientific information in this press release relating
to the ME estimates and approve the use of the information
contained herein.
The information in this announcement that relates to exploration
results is based on information compiled by Dr. Kerim Sener BSc
(Hons), MSc, PhD, Managing Director of Ariana Resources plc. Dr.
Sener is a Fellow of The Geological Society of London and a Member
of The Institute of Materials, Minerals and Mining and has
sufficient experience relevant to the styles of mineralisation and
type of deposit under consideration and to the activity that has
been undertaken to qualify as a Competent Person as defined by the
2012 edition of the Australasian Code for the Reporting of
Exploration Results, Mineral Resources and Ore Reserves (JORC Code)
and under the AIM Rules - Note for Mining and Oil & Gas
Companies. Dr. Sener consents to the inclusion in the report of the
matters based on his information in the form and context in which
it appears.
About Ariana Resources:
Ariana is an AIM-listed mineral exploration and development
company with an exceptional track-record of creating value for its
shareholders through its interests in active mining projects and
investments in exploration companies. Its current interests include
gold production in Turkey and copper-gold exploration and
development projects in Cyprus and Kosovo.
The Company holds 23.5% interest in Zenit Madencilik San. ve
Tic. A.S. a joint venture with Ozaltin Holding A.S. and Proccea
Construction Co. in Turkey which contains a depleted total of c.
2.1 million ounces of gold and other metals (as at July 2020). The
joint venture comprises the Kiziltepe Mine and the Tavsan and
Salinbas projects.
The Kiziltepe Gold-Silver Mine is located in western Turkey and
contains a depleted JORC Measured, Indicated and Inferred Resource
of 227,000 ounces gold and 3.7 million ounces silver (as at April
2020). The mine has been in profitable production since 2017 and is
expected to produce at a rate of c.20,000 ounces of gold per annum
to at least the mid-2020s. A Net Smelter Return ("NSR") royalty of
2.5% on production is being paid to Franco-Nevada Corporation.
The Tavsan Gold Project is located in western Turkey and
contains a JORC Measured, Indicated and Inferred Resource of
253,000 ounces gold and 0.7 million ounces silver (as at June
2020). The project is being progressed through permitting and an
Environmental Impact Assessment, with the intention of developing
the site to become the second joint venture gold mining operation.
A NSR royalty of up to 2% on future production is payable to
Sandstorm Gold.
The Salinbas Gold Project is located in north-eastern Turkey and
contains a JORC Measured, Indicated and Inferred Resource of 1.5
million ounces of gold (as at July 2020). It is located within the
multi-million ounce Artvin Goldfield, which contains the "Hot Gold
Corridor" comprising several significant gold-copper projects
including the 4 million ounce Hot Maden project, which lies 16km to
the south of Salinbas. A NSR royalty of up to 2% on future
production is payable to Eldorado Gold Corporation.
Ariana owns 75% of UK-registered Western Tethyan Resources Ltd
("WTR"), which operates across Eastern Europe and is based in
Pristina, Republic of Kosovo. The company is targeting its
exploration on major copper-gold deposits across the
porphyry-epithermal transition.
Ariana owns 50% of UK-registered Venus Minerals Ltd ("Venus")
which is focused on the exploration and development of copper-gold
assets in Cyprus which contain a combined JORC Indicated and
Inferred Resource of 16.6Mt @ 0.45% to 1.10% copper (excluding
additional gold, silver and zinc).
Ariana owns 100% of Australia-registered Asgard Metals Fund
("Asgard"), as part of the Company's proprietary Project Catalyst
Strategy. The Fund will be focused on investments in high-value
potential, discovery-stage mineral exploration companies located
across the Eastern Hemisphere and within easy reach of Ariana's
operational hubs in Australia, Turkey and the UK.
Panmure Gordon (UK) Limited is broker to the Company and
Beaumont Cornish Limited is the Company's Nominated Adviser and
Broker.
For further information on Ariana you are invited to visit the
Company's website at www.arianaresources.com .
Glossary of Technical Terms:
"Ag" chemical symbol for silver;
"Au" chemical symbol for gold;
"CoG" cut off grade;
" Cu " chemical symbol for copper ;
"JORC" the Joint Ore Reserves Committee;
"m" Metres;
"MRE" Mineral Resource Estimate;
"S" chemical symbol for sulphur;
"Zn" chemical symbol for zinc
Ends.
JORC Code, 2012 Edition - Table 1
Kokkinoyia, Cyprus
(data as at Oct 2021, MRE reported Nov 2021)
Section 1 Sampling Techniques and Data
(Criteria in this section apply to all succeeding sections.)
Sampling
techniques * Nature and quality of sampling (e.g. cut channels, * Historic mining operations, photogrammetric surveying,
random chips, or specific specialised industry pXRF outcrop sampling and drilling (42,895m) were
standard measurement tools appropriate to the used to delineate areas of mineralisation.
minerals under investigation, such as down hole gamma
sondes, or handheld XRF instruments, etc.). These
examples should not be taken as limiting the broad * Mineralisation consists of Cu-Au (+Zn and Ag)
meaning of sampling. Volcanic Massive Sulphide (VMS) mineralisation
contained within two widespread volcanic basalt
pillow lava sequences.
* Include reference to measures taken to ensure sample
representativity and the appropriate calibration of
any measurement tools or systems used. * All drilling to date on the project consists of
diamond, wireline, rotary open hole percussion and
Schramm T64 drilling.
* Aspects of the determination of mineralisation that
are Material to the Public Report.
* Percussion chips in mineralised zones were collected
at 1m intervals. Samples were split on the drill site
* In cases where 'industry standard' work has been done using a 2-tier riffle splitter to a sub-sample of
this would be relatively simple (e.g. 'reverse approximately 3-5kg. Duplicates were also split on
circulation drilling was used to obtain 1 m samples site and randomly placed in the sample stream.
from which 3 kg was pulverised to produce a 30 g Samples were transferred to the Mitsero processing
charge for fire assay'). In other cases, more plant, where they were sun- or oven-dried before
explanation may be required, such as where there is being sub-sampled to 250g, then pulverised and then
coarse gold that has inherent sampling problems. sent to the Nicosia Chemical Laboratories, for wet
Unusual commodities or mineralisation types (e.g. chemical analysis for base metals and sulphur, and
submarine nodules) may warrant disclosure of detailed fire assay for gold (but this involved only a few
information. samples).
* Percussion samples were split to form composite
samples ranging from 0.3m to a maximum of 14m.
* No drill core or chips sample archives exist for
historical drilling.
* Diamond drill core was sampled as quarter core.
* Drill samples void of mineralisation were not a
priority for sampling and therefore not all drill
holes/drill runs have been sampled once
mineralisation controls were established.
* Historic drilling and sampling procedures are only
partly available.
============================================================
Drilling Drill type (e.g. core, reverse circulation, open-hole
techniques hammer, rotary air blast, auger, Bangka, * In total 42,894.8 of drilling for 210 drillholes has
sonic, etc.) and details (e.g. core diameter, triple or been completed across the Kokkinoyia Project.
standard tube, depth of diamond tails,
face-sampling bit or other type, whether core is oriented
and if so, by what method, etc.). * Drilling on the project can be summarised as follows:
* 1951-1955 initiation of first exploration and
resource drilling all by Hellenic Mining Company Ltd
(HMC).
* 1960s to 1970s exploration and resource drilling on
north-eastern extents of deposit (HMC).
* 1970s to 1980s final resource and exploration
drilling on known extensions of the deposit (HMC).
* 2021 confirmatory resource diamond drilling with
multi-element assay data.
* Drilling methods used during the HMC work described
above included wireline, rotary open hole percussion
and Schramm T64 drilling.
* HQ diamond drilling was used during the 2021 drilling
programme.
Drill sample
recovery * Method of recording and assessing core and chip * Drill core recoveries for the diamond drilling (9
sample recoveries and results assessed. holes) averaged 95.3%. These were manually calculated
by measuring the total core recovery against the
drilling runs noted by the drilling company.
* Measures taken to maximise sample recovery and ensure
representative nature of the samples.
* Drilling recoveries for historic drilling were not
recorded. However, detailed notes regarding core loss,
* Whether a relationship exists between sample recovery hole collapse and voids were documented on historic
and grade and whether sample bias may have occurred logging sheets.
due to preferential loss/gain of fine/coarse
material.
============================================================
Logging
* Whether core and chip samples have been geologically * All historic percussion drill holes were geologically
and geotechnically logged to a level of detail to logged in the field using rinsed chips returned after
support appropriate MRE, mining studies and every drilled metre. Logs were then drafted post
metallurgical studies. laboratory analysis to produce detailed hardcopy
assay lithological logs.
* Whether logging is qualitative or quantitative in
nature. Core (or costean, channel, etc.) photography. * Diamond drill core processing and logging was
completed at the Mitsero core storage facilities.
* The total length and percentage of the relevant
intersections logged. * Logging intervals are based on lithologies.
* Logging is to a standard suitable to support a MRE.
Sub-sampling
techniques * If core, whether cut or sawn and whether quarter, * Sampling was undertaken across all mineralised zones
and sample half or all core taken. and extended into un-mineralised rock.
preparation
* If non-core, whether riffled, tube sampled, rotary * Some drill-run samples with no mineralisation were
split, etc. and whether sampled wet or dry. not sampled once mineralisation controls were
established.
* For all sample types, the nature, quality and
appropriateness of the sample preparation technique. * Percussion samples were taken at regular 1m intervals,
from the top of the hole to the bottom, however not
all samples that were taken were sent for assay.
* Quality control procedures adopted for all
sub-sampling stages to maximise representativeness of
samples. * For diamond drilling (9 holes): HQ size drill-core
samples were cut by a diamond saw into quarter core.
Quarter core is sent for analysis in batches in line
* Measures taken to ensure that the sampling is with the Company's quality control procedures, whilst
representative of the in situ material collected, one quarter is held back for future metallurgical
including for instance results for field duplicate/ analysis and the remaining half core is archived.
second-half sampling.
* Historic samples were submitted to the Nicosia
* Whether sample sizes are appropriate to the grain Chemical Laboratories, located within the city of
size of the material being sampled. Nicosia (approx. 35km from the project site). Sample
preparation was completed at the Mitsero processing
plant, and included crushing, milling, homogenisation
and sample splitting in accordance with company
standards.
* Typical sampling protocols are presented below.
However, historically not all samples were assayed
for gold.
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============================================================
Quality of
assay data * The nature, quality and appropriateness of the * HMC applied a random quality control (QC) programme
and assaying and laboratory procedures used and whether during its historic drilling campaigns, whereby
laboratory the technique is considered partial or total. standards and blanks were entered into the sample
tests stream erratically and at random.
* For geophysical tools, spectrometers, handheld XRF
instruments, etc., the parameters used in determining * No internal reporting of HMC's QA/QC sampling results
the analysis including instrument make and model, was reviewed. A number of hardcopy assay documents
reading times, calibrations factors applied and their are preserved within the Venus Minerals offices in
derivation, etc. Nicosia, but no obvious records of QA/QC evaluations
were found.
* Nature of quality control procedures adopted (e.g.
standards, blanks, duplicates, external laboratory * The diamond drill core was analysed at ALS Laboratory
checks) and whether acceptable levels of accuracy Services in Ireland ("ALS Ireland") for gold using a
(i.e. lack of bias) and precision have been 50g fire assay (Au-AA23) and ME-ICP41 for copper and
established. other elements.
* For drilling completed in 2021 by Venus, an industry
standard QA/QC programme was employed using;
o CRM gold and copper standards purchased from CDN
Laboratories and Geostats,
o Representative field blanks with pre-programme check
analysis results
o Field duplicates
o Crush duplicates
o Pulp duplicates
* An insertion rate of 14.29%
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Verification
of sampling * The verification of significant intersections by * No drill core or representative drill samples are
and assaying either independent or alternative company personnel. available for the historic holes at the project, and
therefore, it was not possible for the competent
person (Mr. Zack van Coller) to conduct physical
* The use of twinned holes. verification of historical logging or assaying.
* Documentation of primary data, data entry procedures, * Logging procedures are sufficient to meet industry
data verification, data storage (physical and standards. However, it was not possible to
electronic) protocols. comprehensively evaluate historic sampling
procedures.
* Discuss any adjustment to assay data.
* Prior to resource estimation, assay results below
detection limit are replaced with values of zero.
* The 2021 diamond drill core archived at the Mitsero
depot was inspected by Mr. Zack van Coller on 15(th)
November 2021. Zones of significant mineralisation
were verified and compared to copper assay results of
neighbouring historic holes.
* All available historic archives are stored in both
hardcopy and digital formats at Venus' Cyprus offices
in Nicosia.
============================================================
Location of
data points * Accuracy and quality of surveys used to locate drill * Historical collar locations were recorded in local
holes (collar and down-hole surveys), trenches, mine Cassini coordinate system, converted graphically to
workings and other locations used in MREs. UTM European Datum 1950, Zone 36 North. Later data
were collected by a professional surveyor using DGPS
equipment in the local Cypriot coordinate format
* Specification of the grid system used. (CGRS 1993 LTM), and also converted to the ED50 36N
system.
* Quality and adequacy of topographic control.
* No down hole survey of historic holes exists due to
the vertical drilling of these holes.
* A 5.0cm per pixel resolution drone photogrammetry
survey was completed over the entire Kokkinoyia
deposit during 2018, using a DJI Phantom Advanced 3
drone.
* A 3D photogrammetric topographic mesh was constructed
from the DJI drone data using Pix4D software, and was
re-registered using DGPS ground control points for
increased accuracy to within 50cm.
* The 2021 diamond drill holes were surveyed from
surface to end of hole using a DeviShot multi-shot
downhole survey tool. Readings were taken on 25m
intervals.
Data spacing
and * Data spacing for reporting of Exploration Results. * The resource area was typically drilled on a regular
distribution pattern allowing for 15-30m spacing between collars.
* Whether the data spacing and distribution is
sufficient to establish the degree of geological and * The Kokkinoyia Sector is currently split into five
grade continuity appropriate for the MRE and Ore main related mineralisation domains: Kokkinoyia High
Reserve estimation procedure(s) and classifications Grade East, Kokkinoyia High Grade West, Kokkinoyia
applied. Low Grade, Kokkinoyia Gold and Kokkinoyia Zinc
domains. A sulphur domain was created for the
purposes of defining an Exploration Target.
* Whether sample compositing has been applied.
* Average collar spacing within the core of the
Kokkinoyia Sector is 13.7m (based on 18
measurements).
* Average collar spacing on the periphery of the
Kokkinoyia core is 30.25m (based on 30 measurements).
* Samples were composited to 3m prior to estimation
using Leapfrog EDGE software.
* The current data spacing in association with
geological mapping and surface geochemistry is
sufficient to establish geological continuity and
grade continuity. This has been established and
tested by semi-variograms and post-estimation
assessment.
============================================================
Orientation
of data in * Whether the orientation of sampling achieves unbiased * The Kokkinoyia Sector is bound by two main parallel
relation to sampling of possible structures and the extent to NE-SW trending normal faults. The mineralisation has
geological which this is known, considering the deposit type. been separated into five domains. Additional less
structure significant normal faulting has resulted in localised
off-sets within the deposit. This is more apparent
* If the relationship between the drilling orientation within the Kokkinoyia NE zone.
and the orientation of key mineralised structures is
considered to have introduced a sampling bias, this
should be assessed and reported if material. * The Kokkinoyia SW high and low grade zones have a
general trend of 45˚ (UTM azimuth) with a
50˚ dip towards 75˚ (UTM azimuth).
* The NE high and low grade zones are offset and
rotated with a general trend of 50˚ (UTM
azimuth) with a 35˚ dip towards 65˚ (UTM
azimuth).
* The Kokkinoyia mineralisation has been drilled
vertically, with most holes achieving full
intersections.
* True thickness with respect to apparent thickness is
well understood as most intersections are normal to
the mineralisation.
Sample
security * The measures taken to ensure sample security. * Hellenic Mining Company Ltd. (HMC) was responsible
for sample security between the 1950s and 1970s. The
precise procedures are not fully known due to loss of
historic records. However, samples were deemed
appropriately analysed and representative of the
mineralisation to support mining operations between
1954 and 1979.
* Samples were historically processed and analysed at
the Nicosia Chemical Laboratories, which are no
longer operational, with the chain of custody
appropriately controlled.
* Samples from the 2021 drilling programme were
analysed at ALS Laboratory Services in Ireland ("ALS
Ireland") with the chain of custody appropriately
controlled.
============================================================
Audits or
reviews * The results of any audits or reviews of sampling * Venus Minerals has implemented QA/QC programmes based
techniques and data. on international best practice since its initial
exploration and project review work since 2005. The
Company has continued to review and refine the QA/QC
protocols as exploration campaigns have progressed.
* Audits of historic drill samples were not possible.
However, representative ore samples were viewed and
analysed by fire assay and ME-ICP methods from
historic stockpiles, dumps and from spillages at old
ore loading bays.
============= ============================================================ ========================================================================
Section 2 Reporting of Exploration Results
(Criteria listed in the preceding section also apply to this
section.)
Mineral
tenement and * Type, reference name/ number, location and ownership * The Kokkinoyia Sector consists of one prospecting
land tenure including agreements or material issues with third licence owned 100% by Venus Minerals Ltd, through its
status parties such as joint ventures, partnerships, Cypriot subsidiary. There are no royalties associated
overriding royalties, native title interests, with the stated licence.
historical sites, wilderness or national park and
environmental settings.
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* The security of the tenure held at the time of
reporting along with any known impediments to
obtaining a licence to operate in the area. * There are no known impediments to current operations.
================================================================
Exploration A summary of exploration activities at Kokkinoyia:
done by other * Acknowledgment and appraisal of exploration by * 1938 - Anonymous Greek Company of Chemical Products
parties and Manures explored the Kokkinoyia site for gold and
silver, concentrating on an area of outcropping
oxidation, which was partly covered by slag. The gold
and silver ore was extracted in stages, initially by
trenching and pitting or by shallow declines and
adits. Reported grades reached 106g/t Au and 690g/t
Ag.
* 1939 - a series of 61 prospecting pits were excavated
for the discovery of additional resources. This
resulted in open-cut mining at four different levels,
with mining lasting between April and July 1939.
* 1951 - first exploration drilling for copper,
conducted by Hellenic Mining Company.
* 1954 to 1979 - copper mining at Kokkinoyia extracted
474,562 tonnes resulting in concentrates of 285,330
tonnes.
================================================================
Geology
* Deposit type, geological setting and style of * The Kokkinoyia deposit is located approximately 1.5km
mineralisation. west of Mitsero village, within the Lower Pillow Lava
sequence of the Troodos ophiolite close to its
contact with the Upper Pillow Lavas. Signs of
oxidation and copper staining are widely present in
the area, and these attracted the attention of
ancient miners, as indicated by the presence of
localised slag heaps and old shallow adits.
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* The general geology around the deposit consists of
two main NNE dipping sequences of basaltic pillow
lavas, with localised dykes and sheeted flows. The
exposed pillow lavas are partly capped by a sequence
of marls and limestones. The two pillow lava
sequences are defined as the Upper Pillow Lavas and
Lower Pillow Lavas, which host the defined
mineralisation.
* To the south and west of the deposit are widespread
signs of oxidation, representing the root zones of
mineralisation whose upper levels have been removed
by erosion.
* The main direction of faulting which bounds the
sector has a northerly trend.
* Mineralisation within the Kokkinoyia deposit is
classified as Volcanogenic Massive Sulphide (VMS) in
nature and is represented at surface by widespread
moderate to strong oxidation and gossans, resulting
from the weathering of sulphide mineralisation. The
latter is generally concentrated in zoned lenses
which are structurally controlled and, post formation,
offset by later faulting.
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Drillhole
Information * A summary of all information material to the * No new exploration data is included in this report.
understanding of the exploration results including a
tabulation of the following information for all
Material drill holes:
* easting and northing of the drill hole collar
* elevation or RL (Reduced Level - elevation above sea
level in metres) of the drill hole collar
* dip and azimuth of the hole
* down hole length and interception depth
* hole length.
* If the exclusion of this information is justified on
the basis that the information is not Material and
this exclusion does not detract from the
understanding of the report, the Competent Person
should clearly explain why this is the case.
================================================================
Data
aggregation * In reporting Exploration Results, weighting averaging * Metal equivalents are not used in this estimate.
methods techniques, maximum and/ or minimum grade truncations
(e.g. cutting of high grades) and cut-off grades are
usually Material and should be stated. * No aggregation has been applied beyond the standard
1m sampling interval honouring lithological changes
down to 20cm.
* Where aggregate intercepts incorporate short lengths
of high grade results and longer lengths of low grade
results, the procedure used for such aggregation * No metal equivalent has been applied. Metals are
should be stated and some typical examples of such reported individually.
aggregations should be shown in detail.
* The assumptions used for any reporting of metal
equivalent values should be clearly stated.
================================================================
Relationship
between * These relationships are particularly important in the * All drill-holes within the Kokkinoyia Sector were
mineralisation reporting of Exploration Results. historically drilled vertically. Disseminated
widths and mineralisation is defined as shallow dipping
intercept 10-15˚ mineralisation fronts, with higher grade
lengths * If the geometry of the mineralisation with respect to lenses of massive sulphides interpreted to have
the drill hole angle is known, its nature should be formed at the boundary between two pillow basalt
reported. sequences. Therefore, mineralisation at Kokkinoyia is
generally well defined.
* If it is not known and only the down hole lengths are
reported, there should be a clear statement to this * The latest 2021 drilling consisted of nine angled
effect (e.g. 'down hole length, true width not holes designed to test mineralisation continuity
known'). between several significant vertically drilled holes,
and successfully confirmed most mineralisation,
except where they intercepted undocumented historic
workings.
================================================================
Diagrams
* Appropriate maps and sections (with scales) and * Top 20 Copper intercepts from all data pre-historic
tabulations of intercepts should be included for any mining.
significant discovery being reported. These should
include, but not be limited to a plan view of drill
hole collar locations and appropriate sectional
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================================================================
Balanced
reporting * Where comprehensive reporting of all Exploration * Full balanced reporting of exploration results has
Results is not practicable, representative reporting been undertaken and is disclosed within the technical
of both low and high grades and/ or widths should be reporting supporting this latest 2021 review.
practiced to avoid misleading reporting of
Exploration Results.
================================================================
Other
substantive * Other exploration data, if meaningful and material, * Modern prospectors were drawn to the Kokkinoyia site
exploration should be reported including (but not limited to): by a number of slag heaps and ancient portals.
data geological observations; geophysical survey results; Mineralisation was first confirmed by drilling during
geochemical survey results; bulk samples - size and 1951.
method of treatment; metallurgical test results; bulk
density, groundwater, geotechnical and rock
characteristics; potential deleterious or * In 1975, the deposit was investigated in detail by
contaminating substances. Christoforou (1975), in a study which involved
underground mapping and mineralogical investigations.
* Surface geological mapping at 1:5,000 scale was
completed by Dr. Nicos Adamides in the early 1980s.
* Between 2005 and 2015 Venus Minerals (as Eastern
Mediterranean Minerals (EMM)) digitised all acquired
underground and hardcopy drill log data into its
digital systems.
* In 2016 detailed 1:1,000 scale mapping was completed
by Venus Minerals by Dr. Nicos Adamides.
* In 2018, Venus Minerals conducted several
investigations to identify potential within old
historic dumps, as well as taking steps to evaluate
the project for gold potential, which has
historically not been widely tested for.
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Further work
* The nature and scale of planned further work (e.g. * Additional work to be completed at the Kokkinoyia
tests for lateral extensions or depth extensions or Project can be summarised as follows:
large-scale step-out drilling).
o 2,000-4,000 meters of twin hole drilling (10% of total
* Diagrams clearly highlighting the areas of possible database) required to increase confidence
extensions, including the main geological in historic drill data.
interpretations and future drilling areas, provided o Additional drilling and assaying specifically for gold rich
this information is not commercially sensitive. zones, which could potentially
be a significant contributor to the project. Almost no gold
assaying was completed on any
of the primary historic drilling data. Recent drilling and
surface evaluations of old stockpiles
showed significant potential for gold ranging from 0.2g/t Au
to over 5g/t Au.
o Detailed metallurgical test work. Particularly focusing on
zinc and gold as potential credits.
o Further shallow drill testing of historic mining dumps to
evaluate potential.
o Laser scanning of accessible adits as a means of calibrating
current digitised underground
workings.
o Additional translation and digitising of historic records.
=============== ================================================================ =====================================================================
Section 3 Estimation and Reporting of Mineral Resources
(Criteria listed in section 1, and where relevant in section 2,
also apply to this section.)
Database
integrity * Measures taken to ensure that data has not been * The Kokkinoyia resource data as of 2021 is securely
corrupted by, for example, transcription or keying stored and managed externally by gDat Applied
errors, between its initial collection and its use Solutions ('gDat') via its password-protected acQuire
for MRE purposes. database system.
* Data validation procedures used. * Historic data was stored and preserved by multiple MS
Excel spreadsheets and hardcopy data, which have now
been converted to the gDat digital archives.
* Drill data was logged onto field sheets which were
then entered into the data system by data capture
technicians.
* Data was validated on entry into the database, or
uploaded from the earlier MS Access databases, by a
variety of means including the enforcement of coding
standards, constraints and triggers. These are
features built into the data model that ensure data
meets essential standards of validity and
consistency.
* Modern laboratory data has been received in digital
format and uploaded directly to the database.
* Original data sheets and files have been retained and
are used to validate the contents of the database
against the original logging.
* Venus Minerals and previous independent consultants
of Ariana Resources plc, have performed a visual
validation by reviewing drill-holes on section and by
subjecting drill-hole data to data auditing processes
in specialised mining software (e.g., checks for
sample overlaps etc.). This work was repeated and
checked by Mr. Zack van Coller (Ariana Resources
Competent Person), during the resource modelling in
2020.
* Archived reports have been reviewed to identify
potential errors and reliability of historical data.
=============== =================================================================
Site visits
* Comment on any site visits undertaken by the * The Competent Person for this project is Mr. Zack van
Competent Person and the outcome of those visits. Coller BSc, FGS. Mr. van Coller is Ariana Resource's
Special Projects Geologist and Competent Person as
defined by the JORC Code. Mr. van Coller last visited
* If no site visits have been undertaken indicate why the project in November 2021 and has worked on the
this is the case. project as one of the primary exploration and
development geologists since 2017. He has verified
aspects of the data collection and handling for the
project.
* The work has been reviewed by Ruth Bektas BSc CGeol
EurGeol, Ariana Resource's Project Analyst and
Competent Person as defined by the JORC Code.
=============== =================================================================
Geological
interpretation * Confidence in (or conversely, the uncertainty of) the * Geological interpretation used a combination of
geological interpretation of the mineral deposit. surface geological mapping and geochemical boundaries
from the drill-holes across the Kokkinoyia project.
* Nature of the data used and of any assumptions made.
* Interpretation was completed by Mr. Zack van Coller,
creating 3D wireframe models according to geology and
* The effect, if any, of alternative interpretations on mineralisation above a 0.10% Cu modelling cut-off for
Mineral Resource estimation. the low grade domain and 1% Cu for the east and west
high grade domains.
* The use of geology in guiding and controlling Mineral
Resource estimation. * Historic mining volumes were clipped or filtered from
the geological models to accommodate historically
mined ore. This was confirmed by government
* The factors affecting continuity both of grade and production records.
geology.
* Geological domains were interpreted for the deposit
according to the mineralisation grade and structural
mapping as defined by the historic mining records.
* Two main mineralised zones have been defined
(Kokkinoyia West and Kokkinoyia East), which are
offset from each other due to northerly trending
normal faults. Six metal domains have been modelled
within the Kokkinoyia deposit, representing metal
zoning with the Kokkinoyia VMS system.
* The Kokkinoyia disseminated mineralisation is well
understood. However, additional confirmation drilling
is required to establish the true extent of historic
mining galleries and remaining high grade ore.
* Grade continuity analysis within the interpreted
mineralised zones is generally robust.
* The confidence in geological interpretation is
appropriately reflected in the classification of the
Resources.
=============== =================================================================
Dimensions
* The extent and variability of the MRE expressed as * The Kokkinoyia mineralisation follows a NE-SW trend,
length (along strike or otherwise), plan width, and dipping approximately 15˚ to the NE.
depth below surface to the upper and lower limits of
the MRE.
* The mineralisation is partly exposed at surface, and
dips below a rising topography along strike to a
maximum known depth of approximately 300m. There are
obvious breaks in the mineralisation trend, which
likely represent faulting of the mineralisation into
two main modelled zones (east and west).
* The mineralised corridor, encompassing all modelled
resource domains is approximately 900m long and 200m
wide across the NE-SW trend, extending to over 500m
below surface.
* The dimensions of the mineralisation domains are
approximately:
* High Grade Copper East domain: 260m x 100m x 25m
* High Grade Copper West domain: 125m x 125m x 50m
* Low Grade Copper domain: 700m x 150m x 150m
* Gold domain: 275m x 75m x 90m
* Zinc domain: 200m x 100m x 175m
* Sulphur domain (exploration targeting): 900m x 120m x
180m
=============== =================================================================
Estimation and
modelling * The nature and appropriateness of the estimation * Details of the estimation method, parameters and
techniques technique(s) applied and key assumptions, including results are contained in the related Kokkinoyia 2021
treatment of extreme grade values, domaining, MRE Memorandum (Venus Minerals and Ariana Resources
interpolation parameters and maximum distance of Internal Report, 2021).
extrapolation from data points. If a computer
assisted estimation method was chosen include a
description of computer software and parameters used. * The estimate was compared to previous estimates.
* The availability of check estimates, previous * The MRE has been estimated into a block model
estimates and/ or mine production records and whether prepared in Leapfrog EDGE. The block model comprises
the Mineral Resource estimate takes appropriate the following parameters:
account of such data.
http://www.rns-pdf.londonstockexchange.com/rns/2992U_1-2021-12
* The assumptions made regarding recovery of -1.pdf
by-products.
* A set of copper, gold and zinc grade-based wireframe
models were created in Leapfrog EDGE to select the
* Estimation of deleterious elements or other non-grade samples used in the estimation and to constrain the
variables of economic significance (e.g. sulphur for interpolation.
acid mine drainage characterisation).
* Grade estimates were based on 3m composited assay
* In the case of block model interpolation, the block data.
size in relation to the average sample spacing and
the search employed.
* Estimation was carried out using Ordinary Kriging at
the parent block scale using a multi-pass estimation
* Any assumptions behind modelling of selective mining using all available composites.
units.
* Estimation parameters:
* Any assumptions about correlation between variables. http://www.rns-pdf.londonstockexchange.com/rns/2992U_1-2
021-12-1.pdf
* Description of how the geological interpretation was
used to control the resource estimates.
* Discussion of basis for using or not using grade * This resource estimation technique is appropriate for
cutting or capping. the style of mineralisation.
* The process of validation, the checking process used, * The estimation included copper, zinc, gold, sulphur
the comparison of model data to drill hole data, and (across separate domains).
use of reconciliation data if available.
* Zinc assay data is related to the last phases of
drilling completed on the project, and only
represents a small area (the historic open pit) of
the deposit. Therefore, it was inappropriate to
estimate zinc values for the whole deposit, and
instead is limited to a small 'zinc only' domain.
* Gold assay data is related to the last phases of
drilling completed on the project, and only
represents a small area primarily within Kokkinoyia
West. Therefore, it was inappropriate to estimate
gold values for the whole deposit, and instead is
limited to a small 'gold only' domain.
* Sulphur assay data is present for most samples, and
the relationship and correlation between sulphur and
gold and sulphur and zinc has been used to estimate
an exploration target for gold and zinc across the
whole deposit, within the 'sulphur only' domain - a
domain which represents the values of sulphur (>7% S)
found in association with gold and zinc
mineralisation in the smaller gold and zinc only
domains.
* Variable density, ranging from 2.1 to 3.5 grams per
cubic centimetre (g/cm(3) ), was applied to the block
model on the basis of increasing sulphur content,
which was defined from studies completed in
neighbouring VMS deposits within the district.
* Top-cuts were deemed unnecessary for most domains as
the High Grade Copper was modelled as a separate zone,
so there was no smearing of high grade copper values
into the lower grade copper domain. However, an 8% Cu
top-cut was applied to the Kokkinoyia East High Grade
Copper domain, to further constrain erratic high
grades for a better overall estimation.
* Block model validation was completed with visual
inspection on plan and section, as well as by using
swath plot analysis in the X, Y and Z directions.
=============== =================================================================
Moisture
* Whether the tonnages are estimated on a dry basis or * Tonnage is estimated on a dry basis in accordance
with natural moisture, and the method of with the specific gravity determination.
determination of the moisture content.
=============== =================================================================
Cut-off
parameters * The basis of the adopted cut-off grade(s) or quality * Reporting copper at specified cut-off grades was
parameters applied. based upon costs and recoveries established from the
company's internal records. The reporting cut-off
grade varied depending on the characteristics of the
domain for the final classified resource.
* HG Cu east and west domains: 1% Cu
* LG Cu domain: 0.2% Cu
* Au only domain: 0.2g/t Au
* Zn only domain: 0.2g/t Au, not Zn, so as to better
define the contained gold resource.
* S only domain: 7% S
=============== =================================================================
Mining factors
or assumptions * Assumptions made regarding possible mining methods, * No mining factors (i.e. dilution, ore loss,
minimum mining dimensions and internal (or, if recoverable resources at selective mining block size)
applicable, external) mining dilution. It is always have been applied.
necessary as part of the process of determining
reasonable prospects for eventual economic extraction
to consider potential mining methods, but the * The deposit is probably amenable to open pit mining,
assumptions made regarding mining methods and as demonstrated through an open-pit optimisation
parameters when estimating MREs may not always be study in 2019, though the potential for more
rigorous. Where this is the case, this should be selective underground mining remains a possibility .
reported with an explanation of the basis of the
mining assumptions made.
* The width of operating benches is considered to vary
between 5m to 20m with respect to the change in the
thickness and orientation of the ore zone while the
bench heights were 5 metres.
* The project was previously operated as both open-pit
and underground.
=============== =================================================================
Metallurgical
factors or * The basis for assumptions or predictions regarding * Between 1973 and 1979, underground mining commenced
assumptions metallurgical amenability. It is always necessary as at Kokkinoyia with milling and processing by
part of the process of determining reasonable flotation being conducted at the Mitsero Processing
prospects for eventual economic extraction to Plant approximately 3km from the deposit. It is
consider potential metallurgical methods, but the assumed that future extraction of residual resources
assumptions regarding metallurgical treatment will also be conducted by flotation methods.
processes and parameters made when reporting MREs may Additional scoping work is required to determine if
not always be rigorous. Where this is the case, this this will be optimal.
should be reported with an explanation of the basis
of the metallurgical assumptions made.
* Re-assessment of metallurgical attributes is required
and is a primary objective of immediate drilling
plans.
* Historic records have noted copper recoveries in
concentrate to be 82% and zinc 75%.
* Significant potential exists for gold to be recovered
as an additional credit from flotation. However,
further metallurgical scoping work is required to
verify this.
=============== =================================================================
Environmental
factors or * Assumptions made regarding possible waste and process * The Competent Person is not aware of any known
assumptions residue disposal options. It is always necessary as environmental or permitting issues on the project.
part of the process of determining reasonable
prospects for eventual economic extraction to
consider the potential environmental impacts of the
mining and processing operation. While at this stage
the determination of potential environmental impacts,
particularly for a greenfields project, may not
always be well advanced, the status of early
consideration of these potential environmental
impacts should be reported. Where these aspects have
not been considered this should be reported with an
explanation of the environmental assumptions made.
=============== =================================================================
Bulk density
* Whether assumed or determined. If assumed, the basis * Variable density ranging from 2.1 to 3.5 g/cm(3) was
for the assumptions. If determined, the method used, applied to the estimation model based on a coding
whether wet or dry, the frequency of the measurements, calculation in Leapfrog EDGE according to sulphur
the nature, size and representativeness of the percent content.
samples.
* The bulk density for bulk material must have been http://www.rns-pdf.londonstockexchange.com/rns/2992U_1-2021-12
measured by methods that adequately account for void -1.pdf
spaces (vugs, porosity, etc.), moisture and
differences between rock and alteration zones within
the deposit.
* Discuss assumptions for bulk density estimates used
in the evaluation process of the different materials.
=============== =================================================================
Classification
* The basis for the classification of the MRE into * The resource classification at the project considers
varying confidence categories. the following criteria:
* Whether appropriate account has been taken of all o Confidence in the sampling data and geological
relevant factors (i.e. relative confidence in interpretation.
tonnage/ grade estimations, reliability of input data, o The data distribution (based upon graphical analysis and
confidence in continuity of geology and metal values, average distance to informing composites).
quality, quantity and distribution of the data). o Grade continuity analysis.
o The quality of geological interpretation, cross-cutting
relationships geological modelling
* Whether the result appropriately reflects the and data weighting.
Competent Person's view of the deposit. * Categorical classification of the Kokkinoyia
mineralisation has conservatively been restricted to
Indicated and Inferred Resources only. This is
primarily because all historic drilling data to date
cannot be appropriately audited without additional
drilling being completed. With an increase in
confidence in the historical data, the classification
of the Kokkinoyia resource can readily be upgraded to
higher classifications as appropriate.
* An exploration target has been defined for the areas
with good potential, but insufficient confidence to
be classified as a resource at this stage.
=============== =================================================================
Audits or
reviews * The results of any audits or reviews of MRE * An internal peer review of the reporting was
estimates. conducted for this study. No external reviews or
audits have been completed.
=============== =================================================================
Discussion of
relative * Where appropriate a statement of the relative * The resource estimate is deemed appropriately
accuracy/ accuracy and confidence level in the MRE using an accurate globally, based upon the informing data. The
confidence approach or procedure deemed appropriate by the accuracy and global/local basis of the resource
Competent Person. For example, the application of estimate is suitably accounted for in the resource
statistical or geostatistical procedures to quantify classification.
the relative accuracy of the resource within stated
confidence limits, or, if such an approach is not
deemed appropriate, a qualitative discussion of the * Depletion of the resource by means of historical
factors that could affect the relative accuracy and open-pit production has been accounted for in the
confidence of the estimate. original resource figures as a post-mining topography
has been used to limit the extent of the model.
* The statement should specify whether it relates to
global or local estimates, and, if local, state the * Depletion of the resource in the High Grade Copper
relevant tonnages, which should be relevant to Domains by means of historical underground production
technical and economic evaluation. Documentation has been calculated based on government production
should include assumptions made and the procedures records for Kokkinoyia for over 470kt ore. The High
used. Grade Copper Domain in the final resource was then
depleted by these assumed underground production
figures of 474,500 tonnes. Future studies will aim to
* These statements of relative accuracy and confidence determine the true positioning and extent of UG
of the estimate should be compared with production workings, and calculate a spatially more accurate
data, where available. depletion for the UG part of the resource.
=============== ================================================================= ====================================================================
NOTE: Sections 4 and 5 are not relevant to this work as no
reserves are being estimated and there is no estimation or
reporting of diamonds or other gemstones in this project.
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