MRG Metals Uncovers Four Alluvial Rare Earth Deposits at Adriano
MRG Metals has confirmed four distinct alluvial rare earth deposits at its Adriano project in Mozambique, with all samples showing significant heavy mineral concentrate. Laboratory assays are underway to define the rare earth content, potentially advancing the project toward resource development.
- 100% of 37 auger holes and 126 samples contain visible heavy minerals
- Four separate alluvial deposit areas confirmed adjacent to high-grade stream sediment anomalies
- High-grade heavy mineral concentrate layers identified within active river systems
- Pegmatite mapping underway to test primary rare earth source rocks
- Exploration at adjacent Fotinho licence scheduled to start in early November
Exploration Success at Adriano
MRG Metals Limited (ASX – MRQ) has announced a significant milestone in its Adriano Rare Earth Project in Mozambique, confirming four distinct alluvial deposits through 37 completed auger holes and 126 samples. Remarkably, every sample contained visible heavy mineral concentrate (HMC), underscoring the project's strong potential for rare earth element (REE) mineralisation.
The drilling results align closely with previous stream sediment sampling that revealed exceptionally high Total Rare Earth Oxide (TREO) values; up to 32,393 parts per million; highlighting the prospectivity of the area. The presence of thin, high-grade HMC layers within the active river system further supports MRG’s interpretation of a district-scale mineralised catchment encompassing both the Adriano and adjacent Fotinho licences.
Strategic Next Steps and Laboratory Analysis
Alluvial samples are currently en route to Scientific Services in South Africa for detailed heavy mineral and magnetic separation analysis, while pegmatite samples will be analysed by SGS South Africa to determine their REE content. These results, expected between December 2025 and February 2026, will be pivotal in defining the grade and economic potential of the deposits.
In parallel, MRG has commenced mapping and sampling of pegmatite veins near the drilling sites. These pegmatites, typical of granitic intrusions enriched in REE-bearing minerals such as monazite and xenotime, may represent the primary source rocks feeding the alluvial deposits. Confirming this link could open avenues for both hard-rock and alluvial mining strategies within the Adriano–Fotinho corridor.
Broader Project Context and Market Position
The Adriano and Fotinho licences together form a large, continuous drainage catchment with demonstrated rare earth potential. Exploration at Fotinho is set to commence shortly, promising to expand the understanding of this district-scale system. This complements MRG’s ongoing heavy mineral sands joint venture with Sinowin Lithium, which is progressing toward production of 110,000 tonnes per annum of heavy mineral concentrate.
MRG’s leadership remains optimistic. Non-Executive Director Chris Gregory emphasised the dual potential for discovering both alluvial and hard-rock rare earth deposits, while Chairman Andrew Van Der Zwan highlighted the project’s steady progress toward defining a resource capable of delivering long-term shareholder value.
Looking Ahead
With assay results pending and further exploration planned, MRG Metals is poised to refine its understanding of the Adriano Rare Earth Project’s scale and grade. The integration of alluvial and primary source exploration could position the company advantageously within the rare earth sector, particularly given the strategic importance of magnet rare earths for emerging technologies.
Bottom Line?
As assay results approach, MRG Metals stands on the cusp of transforming early-stage exploration into a potentially valuable rare earth resource.
Questions in the middle?
- What will the laboratory assays reveal about the exact rare earth element grades in the heavy mineral concentrates?
- Could the pegmatite veins prove to be economically viable primary sources for rare earth mining alongside alluvial deposits?
- How will exploration outcomes at the adjacent Fotinho licence influence the overall resource potential of the Adriano–Fotinho district?
