Aya Gold & Silver Bolsters Exploration Efforts in Tijirit Gold Deposit in Mauritania
Canadian mining company Aya Gold & Silver has today announced the completion of an intensive series of drilling operations in the Tijirit gold deposit located in Mauritania. The efforts, covering an impressive distance of 25,176 meters, mark a significant milestone in Aya Gold’s ongoing endeavors to explore and harness the gold potential of this region.
The drilling operations in Tijirit were executed with meticulous technical precision, employing a combination of two distinct drilling methods to acquire accurate and comprehensive data. A total of 22,067 meters of reverse circulation (RC) drill holes were undertaken, alongside 3,109 meters of diamond drilling holes (DDH). This diversified approach has yielded an in-depth insight into the geological and mineralogical characteristics of the deposit, paving the way for a enhanced understanding of its gold potential.
Reverse circulation (RC) drilling is a widely used technique in mining exploration. It involves the use of a down-the-hole hammer to pulverize the rock into small fragments, which are then brought to the surface via a circulating fluid. This method yields high-quality rock samples, offering detailed insights into the geological composition of the subsurface.
On the other hand, diamond drilling holes (DDH) represent an even more precise and intricate method. In this technique, a diamond-tipped drill bit is used to bore deep holes into the rock. The samples obtained from these holes provide detailed information on the rock’s structure, mineralization, and precious metal content.
Preliminary results from these drilling operations show promise, according to a statement by Benoit La Salle, President and CEO of the Canadian company. “These results are significant in the context of resource updates and the completion of our feasibility study in the months ahead. These drilling outcomes support the potential for an open-pit mine and are complemented by our preliminary metallurgical work, indicating recovery rates exceeding 94%,” he added.
The company plans to conduct in-depth analysis of the collected samples to evaluate the gold potential of the deposit and define the best approach for future exploitation.
“These drilling results align with our expectations and confirm Tijirit’s potential as we eagerly await the project’s future development,” commented Thierry Vergnol, CEO of Tijirit Exploitation SA, the Mauritanian subsidiary holding the Tijirit permit.
As a reminder, AYA GOLD holds 75% of the Tijirit deposit, with 15% allocated to the Mauritanian government and 10% to the Mauritanian company Wafa Mining.