Osmond Resources has completed geological logging of its first drill hole at the Orión EU Critical Minerals Project, identifying seven promising mineral layers. A second drill rig is now operational to further test the continuity of these layers.
- Seven prospective mineral layers identified in first drill hole
- Drill hole intersected Pochico Formation to 187.8m depth
- Heavy mineral concentrations include rutile, zircon, and monazite
- Assay results expected within three to four weeks
- Second drill rig commenced drilling to test geological continuity
Geological Logging Reveals Multiple Prospective Layers
Osmond Resources Limited (ASX – OSM) has announced the completion of detailed geological logging for its first drill hole (AV-01) at the Orión EU Critical Minerals Project in southern Spain. The drill hole successfully intersected the Ordovician Pochico Formation, a geological unit known for its enrichment in heavy minerals. Seven distinct prospective layers of weakly laminated quartzite-slate lithologies were identified within the Middle Member of the Pochico Formation, with thicknesses ranging from 0.8 to 5.0 metres.
The drill hole reached a final depth of 187.8 metres, terminating in massive quartzites of the Lower Member of the Pochico Formation. These findings confirm the presence of multiple stratigraphic layers that could potentially host critical minerals, although Osmond has not yet made any representations regarding mineral grades.
Heavy Mineral Potential and Strategic Importance
The Orión Project area has been mapped extensively for heavy mineral concentrations, with previous bulk sampling indicating up to 33% heavy mineral content in certain zones. Key minerals of interest include rutile (titanium), zircon, and monazite, all critical components for various high-tech and industrial applications. The project’s location in the EU aligns with strategic efforts to secure local sources of critical minerals, reducing reliance on imports.
Osmond’s bulk rock channel samples from the Avellanar Zone have shown promising concentrations of titanium dioxide, zirconium oxide, and rare earth oxides, reinforcing the potential value of the mineralised layers identified in drilling.
Next Steps – Assays and Expanded Drilling
Assay results from the AV-01 drill hole are expected within three to four weeks, providing crucial data on the grades and economic viability of the mineralised layers. Meanwhile, a second drill rig has commenced operations, targeting a new hole (AV-01bis) from the same drill pad but at a different angle to test the continuity of the geology observed. Another drill hole (SOR-02) is planned approximately 1.7 kilometres away to further explore the southern extent of the prospective stratigraphy.
Osmond aims to fast-track development activities, including a Mineral Resource Estimate and Scoping Study, targeted for completion in the first half of 2026. These efforts are supported by strong EU regulatory incentives to develop domestic critical mineral supply chains.
Broader Project Context and Environmental Considerations
The Orión Project covers a substantial area in Jaén Province, Andalucía, Spain, with Osmond controlling an 80% interest in most of the tenement. The project area overlaps with a Special Conservation Area, requiring careful balancing of mineral development and environmental preservation. Historical exploration dating back to the mid-20th century focused on uranium and thorium but did not advance due to low grades. Osmond’s modern exploration leverages advanced geological and geophysical techniques to target critical minerals with high strategic value.
Bottom Line?
With assays pending and expanded drilling underway, Osmond’s Orión project is poised to clarify its critical minerals potential amid growing EU supply chain priorities.
Questions in the middle?
- What will the assay results reveal about the grades and economic viability of the identified layers?
- How continuous and extensive are the mineralised layers across the Orión Project area?
- What environmental and regulatory challenges might impact the project’s development timeline?