Richland Resources (LON:RLD) has started commercial production of sapphires from its Capricorn mine in Queensland.
Mining of the first open pit is underway with material going through an alluvial processing plant and then sorted at the nearby town of Emerald. Sapphire recovery will be conducted as part of the 'no touch' mining process currently being developed.
Capricorn is capable of treating up to 200 loose cubic metres (LCM) per hour a staggered ramp up to full-scale production will occur over the next few months.
Mining is taking place within an area of one acre where infill drilling was carried out recently.
Richland expects its first sapphire sales in late June to coincide with the Hong Kong Jewellery & Gem Fair.
Bernard Olivier, chief executive, said: "I am very pleased to report that commercial production of sapphires has commenced following 10 months of intensive mine construction and development work.
“The success of the mine start at Capricorn Sapphire demonstrates Richland's ability to apply all its expertise and experience to new coloured gemstone operations outside of Tanzania.”