Magnetic Anomaly at Spur South Points to Promising Porphyry-Skarn Potential
Resolution Minerals (ASX: RML) has identified a compelling exploration target at its newly acquired Spur South Gold-Copper Project in New South Wales, where a 3.25km long magnetic anomaly coincides with faulted Ordovician volcanics in one of Australia's most prolific mining regions.
The project sits within the Lachlan Transverse Zone – a structural corridor that hosts world-class deposits including Newcrest Mining's Cadia Valley Operations (>50Moz Au, 9.5Mt Cu) – positioning Resolution in premium exploration territory with similar geological characteristics to nearby multi-billion-dollar mines.
Strategic Position in Australia's Gold-Copper Heartland
The Spur South Project (EL9720) is strategically located on the western margin of the Molong Volcanic Belt within the Lachlan Transverse Zone, just 15km southwest of Newcrest's massive Cadia Valley Operations and 7km west of the Cargo mines.
This location is significant as the Lachlan Transverse Zone represents a structural corridor that has influenced the distribution of copper-gold deposits throughout the region since at least the Middle Ordovician period. The zone creates favourable conditions for mineral formation through the interaction of:
- Igneous intrusions
- Hot mineralising fluids
- Deep structural pathways
- Favourable host rocks
"The identification of a discrete magnetic target that possesses the local geology favourable for porphyry and/or skarn related gold and copper mineralisation is very positive," said Aharon Zaetz, Executive Director of Resolution Minerals. "Notwithstanding the requirement to better define the 3.25km long target, the anomaly constitutes a high priority drill target."
Understanding the Magnetic Target
The most compelling feature at Spur South is a discrete 3.25km long magnetic high anomaly identified through geophysical imaging. This magnetic signature:
- Parallels a faulted NW-SE contact between the Fairbridge Volcanics and Millambri Formation
- Coincides with the intersection of NW-SE and NE-SW fault systems
- Cannot be explained by surface geology alone
- Bears similarities to magnetic signatures at nearby Cadia and Golden Clad/Ironclad deposits
| Geological Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Host Rocks | Ordovician-aged Fairbridge Volcanics (porphyritic basalt) and Millambri Formation (volcaniclastic sandstones) |
| Key Structures | NW-SE trending Manildra and Belubula faults |
| Anomaly Size | 3.25km long magnetic high |
| Target Style | Porphyry-skarn gold-copper system |
What is a Porphyry-Skarn System?
Porphyry-skarn mineral systems represent some of the world's largest and most valuable copper and gold deposits. These systems form when hot, mineral-rich fluids from cooling magma bodies interact with surrounding rocks:
Porphyry deposits typically form within or adjacent to intrusive igneous rocks with a distinctive porphyritic texture (large crystals in a fine-grained matrix). They're characterised by:
- Large volumes of lower-grade mineralisation
- Extensive alteration zones
- Potential for billions of tonnes of ore
Skarn deposits develop when these same mineralising fluids interact with carbonate rocks (limestone/dolomite) to create mineral-rich reaction zones. They're known for:
- Higher grades than adjacent porphyry systems
- Complex mineralogy with valuable by-products
- Often smaller but richer zones adjacent to porphyries
The Cadia district, near Resolution's project, demonstrates how these systems can create substantial value, with Cadia Valley Operations containing over 50 million ounces of gold and 9.5 million tonnes of copper in measured and indicated resources.
Next Steps for Resolution
Resolution has outlined a systematic approach to advance the Spur South project:
- Reprocessing existing geophysical data to further define the magnetic anomaly
- Field reconnaissance mapping and sampling to understand surface expressions
- Targeted geophysical surveys including close-spaced ground/drone magnetic surveys and/or Induced Polarisation
- Reconnaissance drilling program to test the priority target
The company reports it has sufficient funds to conduct these work programs at both Spur South and its Drake East Gold-Antimony Project, where land access processes are also advancing.
Why This Matters for Investors
Resolution's Spur South project represents a compelling exploration opportunity for several key reasons:
- Prime location in one of Australia's most productive gold-copper districts
- Similar geological setting to nearby world-class deposits like Cadia
- Clear exploration target with a defined 3.25km magnetic anomaly
- Multiple potential mineralisation styles (porphyry-skarn) known to produce large deposits
- Systematic exploration approach with a defined pathway to drill testing
While still in early stages, the project's location within a proven mineral district containing multiple billion-dollar operations gives Resolution a significant advantage in targeting the next potential discovery in this prolific region.
The company's focus on antimony, gold and copper positions it well in both traditional precious metals and critical minerals that face supply challenges in coming years, potentially creating a favourable tailwind for successful explorers in these commodities.
Ready to Explore Resolution's Gold-Copper Potential?
Discover how Resolution Minerals is strategically positioned to capitalise on a significant 3.25km magnetic anomaly in Australia's premier gold-copper region. With geological similarities to Newcrest's 50Moz Cadia Valley Operations and a systematic exploration approach, Resolution offers investors exposure to both precious metals and critical minerals. To learn more about their promising Spur South Project and investment opportunity, visit Resolution Minerals' website today.
