Ariana Resources plc’s (LON:AAU) drilling at the southern end of its planned open pit at Kiziltepe in Turkey has identified potential new reserves and possible vein extension.
Seven holes were drilled to test the Arzu South vein at the southern end of the Kiziltepe mine and recently discovered Arzu South Parallel (ASP) vein trend.
Kerim Sener, Ariana’s managing director, said the continuity of high-grade and near-surface mineralisation at the very end of the Arzu South vein was encouraging.
“The current in-pit resource does not encompass this mineralisation, suggesting that the pit will capture additional ounces which have the potential to form part of the final reserve.“
In addition, this drilling has confirmed the continuity of the ASP vein trend right through to the southern end of Arzu South and perhaps a further 200m to the east, he said.
“This section of the vein system, referred to as Arzu Far South, remains completely untested by drilling and will now form part of the Phase Two programme."
First gold is expected at Kiziltepe in the final quarter of the year.