Osmond Resources has successfully intersected a highly prospective mineralized layer in its first drill hole at the Orión EU Critical Minerals Project, advancing its critical minerals exploration in Spain. Assay results are expected by the end of October, with further drilling underway.
- First drill hole AV-01 intersects targeted Ordovician Pochico Formation
- 3.4m thick mineralized layer fast-tracked for assaying
- High concentrations of rutile, zircon, monazite, and rare earth elements identified
- Second drilling rig en route to accelerate 15-hole program
- Mineral Resource Estimate and Scoping Study targeted for first half of 2026
Initial Drilling Success at Orión
Osmond Resources Ltd (ASX, OSM) has reported a promising start to its maiden drilling campaign at the Orión EU Critical Minerals Project in southern Spain. The first drill hole, AV-01, successfully intersected the targeted Ordovician Pochico Formation, a geological layer known for its enrichment in heavy minerals critical to the EU supply chain.
The intersected zone includes a 3.4-metre thick sequence of sandstone and siltstone that has been fast-tracked for assay testing, with results anticipated by the end of October 2025. This early success validates the company’s geological model and supports the continuity of mineralized layers previously identified through surface sampling.
Strategic Mineral Potential
The Orión Project hosts multiple layers enriched in critical minerals such as rutile (titanium), zircon, monazite, hafnium, and a suite of rare earth elements. Bulk sampling in the area has revealed heavy mineral concentrations reaching up to 33%, underscoring the project's potential to supply materials essential for high-tech and clean energy applications.
These findings come amid growing EU regulatory support aimed at securing domestic sources of critical minerals, reducing reliance on imports, and fostering supply chain resilience. Osmond’s focus on fast-tracking development activities, including a Mineral Resource Estimate and Scoping Study planned for completion by mid-2026, aligns with this strategic imperative.
Expanding Exploration Efforts
Following the encouraging results from AV-01, Osmond is accelerating its drilling program with a second rig en route to the project site. The company plans to complete a total of 15 drill holes to delineate the extent and grade of the mineralized zones across the Orión permit area.
The project area, located in the Central Iberian Zone of the Iberian Massif, benefits from a well-understood geological framework. The Pochico Formation, up to 200 metres thick, comprises multiple sedimentary members that have demonstrated consistent heavy mineral enrichment, providing a robust foundation for resource estimation.
Environmental and Regulatory Context
Osmond’s exploration activities are conducted within a Special Conservation Area, necessitating careful environmental management to balance resource development with natural preservation. The company has secured the necessary investigation permits and is progressing applications for adjacent areas to explore lateral extensions of the mineralized stratigraphy.
Historical exploration in the region, including uranium and thorium surveys in the mid-20th century, provides additional geological context, although Osmond’s focus remains on critical minerals with strong market demand.
Bottom Line?
As Osmond advances its drilling and awaits assay results, the Orión Project stands poised to become a key European source of critical minerals amid shifting global supply dynamics.
Questions in the middle?
- Will assay results confirm economically viable grades across the mineralized layers?
- How will Osmond balance environmental conservation with project development in the Special Conservation Area?
- What are the implications of further drilling results on the scale and timeline of resource development?