Multiple High-Grade Silver-Indium Intersections Boost Resource Potential
The latest results from drillholes ORR108 to ORR118 have delivered exceptional silver-indium mineralisation, highlighted by hole ORR109 which intercepted 32m @ 161.0 g/t Ag Eq. from 115m including 6m @ 377.1 g/t Ag Eq. from 133m and a remarkable 1m @ 897.8 g/t Ag Eq. (280.1 g/t Ag, 77.7 g/t In, 6.95% Pb & 6.66% Zn) from 145m downhole.
Several other holes returned significant results:
- ORR113: 20m @ 107.2 g/t Ag Eq. from 88m including 11m @ 165.4 g/t Ag Eq.
- ORR114: 8m @ 190.7 g/t Ag Eq. from 104m including 6m @ 236.4 g/t Ag Eq.
- ORR111: Multiple zones including 5m @ 98.8 g/t Ag Eq. and 4m @ 116.2 g/t Ag Eq.
The mineralisation extends beyond the previously defined boundaries, prompting Iltani to expand its drilling program to capture additional resource potential.
Expanding the Resource Footprint
Iltani Managing Director Donald Garner expressed enthusiasm about the results, stating:
"The results are excellent, and the drill bit has delivered more wide intersections in multiple holes. Of note is the intersection in ORR109 which returned 32m @ 161.0 g/t Ag Eq. from 115m downhole, the down-dip extension of the mineralisation intersected in ORR103."
Based on these encouraging findings, Iltani has decided to undertake an additional round of RC drilling at Orient East, consisting of nine holes totaling 2,100 meters. This supplementary program will test the southwest extensions of the Orient East mineralisation, which remains open both down-dip and along strike.
"This additional drilling will delay the Orient East JORC Resource estimate into late September or early October," Garner explained. "The new drilling should add additional tonnes and grade to the Orient East Resource, so it is well worth doing."
Understanding the Silver-Indium Deposit
The Orient East mineralisation exhibits a complex geometry, interpreted as an east-west trending subvertical zone with shallowly south-dipping mineralised zones. The structure comprises a massive sulphide core surrounded by disseminated and veined base metal sulphides, sometimes forming a stockwork pattern.
This configuration creates potential for both open-pit and underground mining scenarios, with the massive sulphide vein systems and associated low-grade stockwork mineralisation commencing at shallow depths.
What Is Silver Equivalent (Ag Eq.)?
Silver equivalent is a standardised way to express the combined value of multiple metals in terms of silver. At Orient East, the calculation includes silver, lead, zinc, and indium using the formula: Ag Eq. = Ag + (Pb × 35.5) + (Zn × 50.2) + (In × 0.47).
This calculation assumes metals will be recovered to either lead or zinc concentrates and is based on current metal prices and expected metallurgical recoveries:
| Metal | Price/Unit | Recovery |
|---|---|---|
| Silver | US$20/oz | 87% |
| Lead | US$1.00/lb | 90% |
| Zinc | US$1.50/lb | 85% |
| Indium | US$300/kg | 85% |
The inclusion of indium, a critical metal used in semiconductors, touchscreens, and solar panels, adds significant value to the silver-indium project Iltani Resources is developing beyond traditional precious and base metals.
Indium: A Critical Element for Modern Technology
Indium is a soft, malleable post-transition metal that is relatively rare in the Earth's crust. It has become increasingly important in modern technology for several key applications:
- Transparent Conductive Coatings: Indium tin oxide (ITO) is used in virtually all flat-panel displays, touchscreens, and some photovoltaic devices
- Semiconductors: Used in special alloys for high-speed transistors and photovoltaic applications
- Solders and Alloys: Low-melting-point alloys that are important in electronics manufacturing
- LED Manufacturing: Used in the production of light-emitting diodes
Global indium production is limited, with most coming as a by-product of zinc processing. The presence of high-grade indium at Orient East provides Iltani with exposure to this critical metal market, potentially enhancing the project's economic value.
Exploration Target Points to Substantial Resource Potential
Iltani previously defined a JORC-compliant Exploration Target for Orient East of 25-35 million tonnes @ 77-95 g/t Ag Equivalent (using a 30 g/t Ag Eq. cutoff), which includes multiple high-grade core zones. The current drilling program is designed to convert a portion of this target into a maiden Mineral Resource Estimate.
The company's strategy focuses initially on the Main Orient East area covering approximately 500m by 400m, with a drill density of 80m by 50m. After completing this phase, Iltani plans to test additional targets at Orient North, Orient South, Deadman Creek, and numerous geophysical anomalies.
Why Investors Should Watch Iltani Resources
Iltani Resources is positioning itself as a key player in Australia's critical minerals sector, with Orient emerging as potentially Australia's most significant silver-indium discovery. The company has strategically built a portfolio of projects targeting base metals and critical minerals essential for the low-emission economy.
The consistent high-grade results from Orient East, the expanding resource footprint, and the presence of indium—a critical metal with limited global supply—make Iltani an attractive prospect for investors interested in the critical minerals space.
With the maiden Mineral Resource Estimate now expected by early October 2025, investors should monitor further drilling results and the final resource calculation, which will provide a clearer picture of the silver-indium project Iltani Resources is developing and its economic potential.
Additional Projects in Iltani's Portfolio
Beyond Orient East, Iltani holds several other promising projects:
- Northern Base Metal Project in Northern Queensland, highly prospective for base metal mineralisation
- Mt Read Volcanics Project in Tasmania, targeting copper and other base metals
- Additional VTEM geophysical anomalies at Orient North, Orient South, and Deadman Creek awaiting testing
These assets provide Iltani with multiple opportunities to expand its resource base and create value for shareholders beyond the flagship Orient East silver-indium project Iltani Resources continues to advance.
Want to Capitalise on Australia's Emerging Silver-Indium Opportunity?
Discover how Iltani Resources is developing what could be Australia's most significant silver-indium discovery with consistent high-grade results and expanding resource potential. For investors seeking exposure to critical minerals essential for modern technology, Iltani presents a compelling opportunity with its flagship Orient East project and diversified portfolio. Visit Iltani Resources' website to learn more about their projects and investment potential ahead of their upcoming maiden Mineral Resource Estimate.
