Ariana Resources Begins Heap-Leach Operations with 311,000 Ounces Gold Resource
Ariana Resources has commenced heap-leach operations at its Tavşan Mine in Türkiye, marking a significant step toward sustained gold production and enhanced revenue streams.
- Final operational permit secured for Tavşan Heap-leach Project
- Heap-leach ore loading underway with gold production expected this quarter
- Approximately 800,000 tonnes of ore stockpiled and crushing ongoing
- High-grade ore continues to be processed at Kiziltepe CIL plant
- Ariana holds 23.5% stake in Tavşan via Zenit Madencilik partnership
Operational Milestone Achieved
Ariana Resources plc has announced a pivotal development in its Turkish gold operations with the Tavşan Heap-leach Project receiving its final operational permit. This approval enables the company to begin loading ore onto the heap-leach pads, a critical step toward initiating commercial gold production. The commencement of heap-leaching operations is expected to deliver gold output within the current quarter, signaling a new phase of sustained production for Ariana.
Strategic Resource and Production Profile
The Tavşan Mine boasts a robust JORC 2012-compliant resource estimate of 311,000 ounces of gold and 1.1 million ounces of silver, underpinning an anticipated mine life of eight years. Ariana’s 23.5% ownership in Tavşan is held through its partnership in Zenit Madencilik, alongside Proccea Construction Co. and Ozaltin Holding. While lower-grade ore is directed to the heap-leach pads, high-grade ore continues to be trucked to the nearby Kiziltepe CIL processing plant, which offers higher gold recovery rates, complementing the heap-leach operations.
Operational Readiness and Market Timing
With approximately 800,000 tonnes of ore stockpiled and crushing activities ongoing since August, Ariana is well-positioned to ramp up production. Managing Director Dr. Kerim Sener highlighted the fortuitous timing of the heap-leach start-up amid rising gold and silver prices, which could enhance the project’s profitability. The company also acknowledged the efforts of its operational partners in overcoming technical and logistical challenges to reach this milestone.
Looking Ahead
As heap-leach operations commence, Ariana anticipates a steady flow of gold production and a potential renewal of dividend distributions from Zenit in 2026. The company’s focus now turns to operational execution and resource expansion opportunities that could extend the mine’s life and increase output. Investors will be watching closely for production updates and the impact of commodity price movements on the project’s economics.
Bottom Line?
Tavşan’s heap-leach start marks a new chapter for Ariana, but operational execution and market dynamics will dictate its true impact.
Questions in the middle?
- What are the expected gold production volumes and timelines from the heap-leach operation?
- How will rising gold and silver prices influence Tavşan’s profitability and dividend potential?
- Are there plans to expand the resource base or extend the mine life beyond eight years?
