Lodestar Minerals Discovers Promising Gold-Copper Results in Chilean Projects

Lodestar Reveals Promising Gold-Copper Results at Chilean IOCG Projects

Lodestar Minerals (ASX: LSR) has announced encouraging assay results from its maiden drilling program at the Darwin Project in Chile, uncovering multiple gold and copper intercepts as it advances exploration across its strategically positioned IOCG targets in one of the world's premier copper belts.

Key Highlights from Darwin Drilling Program

Initial results from the 16-hole RC drilling campaign (totaling 2,026 meters) have returned several significant gold and copper intercepts, including:

• 8m @ 0.56 g/t Au from 96m in LDARC009
• 2m @ 0.48 g/t Au & 0.51% Cu from 30m in LDARC007
• 4m @ 0.39 g/t Au from 32m in LDARC014
• 1m @ 0.68 g/t Au from 35m in LDARC010

These results build upon Lodestar's systematic exploration approach at the 5,800-hectare Darwin & Three Saints IOCG/Porphyry project in northern Chile, where the company is targeting Iron Oxide Copper-Gold (IOCG) and porphyry-style deposits.

"Exploration success is driven by work on the ground, and we are pleased with the outcomes of our recent site visit. This visit was focused on refining the targets for our upcoming July field program, following an extensive review of data collected since December," commented Lodestar Head of Exploration Coraline Blaud.

Targeted Exploration Program Takes Shape

Lodestar has completed a reconnaissance field trip with its local geological team in preparation for its July geochemistry and geological mapping program. The company has outlined a strategic approach to upcoming exploration:

1. Aeromagnetic Survey (July) – Covering non-surveyed areas across both Darwin and Three Saints projects
2. Geochemistry and Mapping (July) – Comprehensive soil sampling on outcropping areas and focused geological mapping targeting IOCG-style alteration and mineralisation
3. Assay Results (Early September) – Using XRF for base metals and lab analysis for gold
4. Next Drilling Phase (September) – Targeting newly identified zones from soil sampling and geophysics results

To bolster its technical expertise, Lodestar has appointed Gonzalo J. Henríquez as Technical Adviser. With over 20 years of experience specialising in magmatic-hydrothermal mineral deposits, Henríquez brings valuable knowledge of IOCG/IOA projects in the Chilean Coastal Range and porphyry copper districts throughout the Andean region.

Understanding IOCG Deposits: A Primer for Investors

IOCG (Iron Oxide Copper-Gold) deposits represent some of the world's most valuable mineral systems. Unlike porphyry deposits, IOCGs typically feature:

• Strong association between iron oxides (magnetite/hematite), copper sulfides, and gold
• Broad alteration halos that can extend for kilometres
• Diverse mineralisation styles ranging from breccias to veins and replacement zones
• Often larger tonnage but lower grade than some other deposit types

IOCG deposits can create significant magnetic signatures (detectable through aeromagnetic surveys) and geochemical footprints, making systematic exploration techniques particularly effective for targeting.

The formation of IOCG deposits is generally associated with extensional tectonic settings and deep crustal structures that allow for the circulation of metal-bearing fluids. These deposits often form at moderate depths in the crust (1-5km) and are characterised by extensive alteration zones.

Identifying IOCG deposits typically involves multi-disciplinary exploration approaches including:

• Magnetic and gravity surveys to detect iron oxide-rich zones
• Soil and rock geochemical sampling to identify metal anomalies
• Structural mapping to understand fluid pathways
• Alteration mapping to identify characteristic mineral assemblages

Strategic Position in World-Class Copper Belt

The Darwin & Three Saints Projects are situated in one of the world's largest IOCG belts, which hosts the massive Candelaria Deposit (1.2 billion tonnes @ 0.60% Cu, 0.13 g/t Au, 2.0 g/t Ag). The region features numerous world-class copper deposits and gold-rich IOCG deposits including:

• Carola (10Mt @ 1.8% Cu, 0.5g/t Au)
• Atacama Kozan (50Mt @ 1.6% Cu, 0.35g/t Au)

The association between high-grade copper, gold, and iron at surface in the Darwin Project provides encouraging indicators of the project's potential within this prolific mineral belt.

Upcoming Catalysts and Next Steps

Lodestar's upcoming work program provides several near-term catalysts for investors to monitor:

The company's methodical approach – using low-cost, high-impact exploration techniques to refine targets before drilling – allows for efficient capital allocation while maintaining exploration momentum across its portfolio.

Why Investors Should Watch Lodestar

Lodestar presents an interesting opportunity for investors looking for exposure to copper and gold exploration in a world-class jurisdiction. Key investment considerations include:

1. Strategic Land Position – The Darwin and Three Saints projects are positioned within one of the world's premier IOCG/copper belts with proven multi-million-ounce potential

2. Systematic Exploration Approach – The company's methodical exploration program maximises chances of discovery while managing exploration costs effectively

3. Diversified Asset Portfolio – Beyond Chile, Lodestar maintains 100% ownership of the Earaheedy and Ned's Creek projects in Western Australia, plus exposure to lithium via its 27.5M performance rights in Future Battery Minerals

4. Technical Expertise – The addition of Gonzalo Henríquez as Technical Adviser brings valuable regional expertise and IOCG deposit knowledge

As copper prices remain robust amid growing demand for electrification and renewables, Lodestar's focused exploration of these promising IOCG targets could deliver significant shareholder value through continued exploration success.

Want to Capitalise on Lodestar's Promising Chilean Copper-Gold Exploration?

Discover the full potential of Lodestar Minerals' strategic IOCG projects in Chile's premier copper belt. With encouraging initial drilling results, a systematic exploration approach, and upcoming catalysts including aeromagnetic surveys and expanded soil sampling, LSR represents a compelling opportunity for investors seeking exposure to copper and gold in a world-class jurisdiction. For comprehensive information about Lodestar's projects and investment potential, visit the company's website today.