Exploration Risks Loom as Terra Targets High-Grade Silver Zones at Mole River
Terra Critical Minerals (ASX – T92) has revealed extensive high-grade silver mineralisation across its 100% owned Mole River project in NSW, highlighting significant polymetallic potential and setting the stage for a major exploration push.
- 25 samples exceed 100 g/t silver, peak at 552 g/t
- Notable grades of indium (310 g/t), antimony, lead, and gold also identified
- Project area adjacent to Rapid Critical Metals and First Tin projects
- Historical data validated under JORC 2012 standards
- Comprehensive exploration program planned over next two years
A Rich Silver Discovery in NSW
Terra Critical Minerals Limited (ASX – T92) has announced a significant breakthrough at its Mole River project in New South Wales, identifying widespread high-grade silver mineralisation across a broad 93-kilometre project area. The company reported 25 surface samples exceeding 100 grams per tonne (g/t) silver, with the highest assay reaching an impressive 552 g/t silver at the Mosman Prospect. This discovery not only reinforces the project's potential but also highlights the presence of other valuable metals including indium, antimony, lead, and gold.
Polymetallic Potential Around the Mole Granite
The Mole River project is strategically located adjacent to other critical metals ventures such as Rapid Critical Metals and First Tin’s Taronga project, all clustered around the geologically significant Mole Granite unit. This granite intrusion appears to be a key driver of the polymetallic vein mineralisation observed, with high-grade veins trending predominantly north-northeast. The presence of antimony grades up to 1,765 g/t and lead concentrations reaching 7.3% at various prospects within the project area underscores the complex and rich mineral assemblage.
Historical Data Validation and Exploration Outlook
Terra has meticulously reviewed and validated historical exploration data dating back several decades, confirming its compliance with the JORC 2012 reporting standards. This rigorous approach lends credibility to the surface sampling results and provides a solid foundation for future work. The company plans to undertake a comprehensive exploration program over the next two years, focusing on infill drilling to delineate higher-grade zones and testing for extensions at depth. Additional geophysical surveys and remote sensing studies are also anticipated to refine targeting.
Broader Portfolio Synergies
The Mole River project complements Terra’s broader critical metals portfolio in the New England region, which includes the Ottery Tin Mine, Castle Rag Silver deposit, and Glen Eden tungsten deposit. The polymetallic nature of the Mole River mineralisation aligns well with the company’s strategic focus on metals critical to emerging technologies and clean energy applications, potentially enhancing its appeal to investors seeking exposure to diversified critical metal assets.
Looking Ahead
While the current results are derived from surface rock chip and float samples without drilling data yet, the high grades and polymetallic signatures present a compelling case for advancing the project. The next phase of exploration will be crucial in defining the scale and economic viability of the mineralisation, potentially positioning Terra Critical Minerals as a key player in the NSW critical metals landscape.
Bottom Line?
Terra’s Mole River project is poised for a transformative exploration phase that could reshape its resource profile and market standing.
Questions in the middle?
- How will upcoming drilling programs refine the understanding of mineralisation continuity and grade?
- What are the potential metallurgical challenges given the polymetallic nature of the deposits?
- Could partnerships or joint ventures accelerate development given adjacent projects by Rapid Critical Metals and First Tin?