MRG Metals has confirmed a straightforward and scalable processing method for its high-grade rare earth mineralisation at the Garies Project, achieving an initial 72% recovery of monazite concentrate with potential for further gains.
- Initial metallurgical testwork confirms simple, scalable processing pathway
- Monazite concentrate recovery at ~72%, with potential to exceed 80%
- Recovered concentrate contains ~60% rare earth oxides including magnet and heavy rare earths
- DrillTarg deposit is first of 23 targets within 275 km² Garies tenement
- Maiden Mineral Resource Estimate and Mining Right Application underway
Processing Breakthrough at DrillTarg
MRG Metals Limited (ASX:MRQ) has announced promising metallurgical test results from its DrillTarg deposit within the Garies Rare Earth Project in South Africa. The company’s recent testwork, conducted on a substantial 350kg composite sample, demonstrates a simple and scalable processing pathway to produce a saleable monazite concentrate. Initial recovery rates stand at approximately 72%, with a clear pathway to exceed 80% through further optimisation.
The processing method relies predominantly on physical separation techniques including magnetic separation, gravity concentration, and flotation. This approach utilises conventional equipment, which bodes well for a low-cost and scalable development of the project.
High-Grade Rare Earths with Valuable Composition
The monazite concentrate produced contains around 60% rare earth oxides (REO), featuring a valuable mix of magnet rare earths such as neodymium and praseodymium (NdPr), which make up over 24% of total rare earth oxides, alongside heavy rare earths including terbium, dysprosium, and yttrium contributing roughly 9%. These elements are critical for high-tech applications, particularly in permanent magnets.
Drilling results from the 2025 reverse circulation campaign underpinning the testwork revealed high-grade intersections, including a standout 6.6 metres at 4.49% total rare earth oxides. DrillTarg is the first of 23 identified rare earth targets across the expansive 275 square kilometre Garies tenement, most of which remain untested.
Advancing Towards Resource Definition and Mining Approval
MRG is progressing a maiden Mineral Resource Estimate for DrillTarg, expected in the second quarter of 2026, alongside preparation of a Mining Right Application. These steps are critical milestones towards project development and eventual production.
Further metallurgical testwork is planned to optimise recovery rates and improve concentrate quality. Additionally, expanded geophysical surveys, including aerial magnetic and radiometric studies, will refine drill targets across the tenement. The company intends to drill test multiple additional prospects, aiming to build scale and value.
Strategic Positioning in Critical Minerals
The Garies Project acquisition in late 2025 marked a strategic pivot for MRG Metals, transforming it into a diversified critical minerals company. Alongside Garies, MRG is advancing the Adriano-Fotinho Rare Earth Project in Mozambique and a titanium dioxide joint venture, providing multiple value streams and reducing reliance on any single asset.
Chairman Andrew van der Zwan highlighted the significance of the metallurgical results, noting the potential for a low-capex development supported by simple processing. The combination of high-grade mineralisation, straightforward metallurgy, and a large pipeline of targets positions MRG well in the competitive rare earths sector.
Bottom Line?
With metallurgical success and resource definition underway, MRG Metals is poised to unlock significant value from its Garies rare earth assets.
Questions in the middle?
- How will further metallurgical optimisation impact project economics and timelines?
- What scale of resource can MRG define across the 23 identified targets at Garies?
- How will the company manage thorium-associated radiation risks in monazite concentrate handling?