Eclipse Metals Targets Rare Earth Growth with Strategic Rubidium and Gallium Finds

Advancing Rare Earth Exploration in Greenland

Eclipse Metals Ltd (ASX, EPM) is preparing to commence a diamond drilling campaign at its Grønnedal Rare Earth Project in Greenland this September, pending final regulatory approvals. This program aims to expand and upgrade the company’s recently reported inferred mineral resource of 89 million tonnes grading 6,363 parts per million total rare earth oxides (TREO), which already ranks among the largest rare earth deposits in the North Atlantic region.

The drilling will target deeper zones within the carbonatite complex and priority anomalies identified through earlier geophysical and mineralogical studies. By focusing on these extensions, Eclipse hopes to increase the resource base and enhance the project’s economic potential.

Critical By-Products Emerge at Ivigtut

Alongside Grønnedal’s development, Eclipse has confirmed significant concentrations of rubidium and gallium in mineralised stockpiles at its Ivigtut site, also in Greenland. Assays from bulk samples and archival drill core reveal rubidium grades averaging 421 ppm, with peaks up to 1,335 ppm, and gallium averaging 39 ppm. Both elements are listed as critical minerals by the US government due to their essential roles in emerging technologies such as quantum computing, atomic clocks, and advanced semiconductors.

This discovery positions Ivigtut as a potential multi-critical mineral project, complementing the rare earth focus at Grønnedal. The presence of these by-products could open new revenue streams and enhance the overall project value.

Strategic Positioning in a Shifting Global Supply Chain

Eclipse Metals’ Greenland projects benefit from strategic advantages including port access at Ivigtut and proximity to European markets. The company’s alignment with the EU Critical Raw Materials Act and the US Critical Minerals strategy underscores its potential to become a reliable supplier outside of China’s dominant rare earths market.

Guided by experienced US legal and policy advisors, Eclipse is navigating the complex geopolitical landscape to position itself as a key player in the North Atlantic supply chain. This approach aims to attract partnerships with downstream users seeking secure, large-scale sources of rare earths and critical by-products.

Next Steps and Outlook

Looking ahead, Eclipse plans to commence drilling at Grønnedal in September 2025, with oversight from board geologist Alfred Gillman. Concurrent mineralogical studies will refine understanding of rubidium and gallium host minerals, while assessments of by-product recovery pathways are underway. Ongoing engagement with Greenlandic authorities and communities will support sustainable project development.

These initiatives collectively aim to unlock further value from Eclipse’s Greenland assets, positioning the company to capitalize on accelerating demand for critical minerals in high-tech and defence sectors.