Resolution Minerals Eyes Swift JORC Compliance with “Exceptional” Tungsten Discovery
Resolution Minerals (ASX:RML) is signalling a rapid ascent towards JORC-code compliance, following the discovery of “exceptional” high-grade tungsten from initial sampling at its recently acquired Johnson Creek tungsten and antimony mill. The promising results stem from historical stockpiles that have remained untouched since the 1980s, revealing a grade of 1.85% WO₃ that strongly aligns with older, historical production data.
The company’s recent fieldwork, conducted in late 2025, involved comprehensive mapping and the collection of representative samples from stockpiles originating from the historical Golden Gate Tungsten Mine. A significant component of this sampling effort was a 93.6-kilogram mini-bulk composite sample, meticulously assembled from six individual samples. This composite underwent rigorous multi-element geochemical analysis and mineralogical assessment by the independent experts at Metallurgical Operations.
Key Technical Findings Unveiled
The technical analysis has yielded several critical insights:
- Exceptional Tungsten Grade: The samples returned a remarkable grade of 1.85% WO₃.
- Gold Association: Alongside the tungsten, a grade of 0.11g/t gold was also detected.
- Dominant Tungsten Mineral: Scheelite (CaWO₄) has been identified as the primary tungsten ore mineral.
- Low Impurity Levels: Crucially, the analysis indicated minimal presence of deleterious elements. Arsenic was recorded at 97ppm, while both molybdenum and phosphorus levels fell below detection limits.
These findings are particularly noteworthy when compared to global averages. The overall haul “significantly exceeds” the typical underground mining grades for tungsten, which generally range from 0.15% to 0.20% WO₃, according to the U.S. Geological Survey.
A Compelling Opportunity for Swift Development
Aharon Zaetz, Executive Director at Resolution Minerals, described the confirmation of such a high-grade discovery from the Golden Gate stockpile as a “significant milestone.” He elaborated on the compelling potential of these results, highlighting that the combination of strong grade, scheelite-dominant mineralisation, and low impurity levels points towards the feasibility of a straightforward and cost-effective processing pathway.
Mr. Zaetz further emphasised the strategic advantage of the Johnson Creek project’s history. “Given Golden Gate has previously been mined for tungsten, and has supplied the U.S. Government with critical metals for several war efforts during the 20th Century, this presents a compelling opportunity to fast-track the stockpiles should further planned work prove positive,” he stated. This historical context underscores the project’s established track record and potential for rapid advancement.
Favourable Market Conditions and Government Support
The timing of Resolution Minerals’ discovery aligns perfectly with a surge in tungsten prices. Recent global supply constraints have driven the metal’s value to approximately US$2,200 per metric ton. This favourable market dynamic is further enhanced by recent U.S. government policy initiatives. Notably, a US$12 billion program aimed at rebuilding critical mineral supply chains and reducing offshore dependency presents a significant tailwind for companies like Resolution Minerals, which are positioned to contribute to domestic supply security.
Next Steps Towards JORC Compliance and Offtake
Resolution Minerals has outlined a clear path forward to solidify its findings and advance the project:
- Detailed Sub-Surface Sampling: A comprehensive program will be undertaken to gather more granular data from beneath the surface.
- Volumetric Survey: This survey will be crucial for quantifying the total tonnage available within the stockpiles.
- Specific Gravity Analysis: This analysis will provide essential data for accurate resource estimation.
These planned works are designed to facilitate the upgrade of historical and foreign resource estimates to meet JORC-2012 compliance standards. Achieving this compliance is a critical step towards exploring potential near-term offtake agreements, a key objective for the company.
Resolution Minerals’ shares saw a positive market reaction, trading up by 6.2% by lunchtime on Thursday, reflecting investor confidence in the company’s strategic direction and the promising nature of the Johnson Creek discovery.
