Pan Asia Metals has reported promising early findings from its Rosario copper project in Chile, with numerous soil and rock-chip samples exhibiting strong green malachite copper mineralization. These results bolster historic exploration data from the site.
The exploration program commenced last week, coinciding with geophysical induced-polarization (IP) surveys. Led by chief geologist David Hobby, the initiative aims to validate previous exploration results and assess the potential size of the Rosario East Trend (RET). This area is notable for housing the historic Salvadora and Royal Mines, where numerous rock-chip samples have demonstrated significant copper grades tied to extensive economic oxide mineralization. Initial efforts also aim to identify signs of “Manto-style” copper mineralization ahead of planned drilling.
Manto-style mineralization refers to copper-silver deposits that form in blanket-like bodies between bedding planes, similar to the 170 million tonnes at 1.6% Mantos Blancos copper deposit in northern Chile, which has been operational since 1995. Given the limited surface mineralization at Rosario, soil sampling is critical, with initial results indicating consistent malachite presence.
Managing Director Paul Lock stated, “Exploration results to date support previous work, with many samples containing visible malachite, a secondary copper mineral. The existence of small-scale historical mines and the nearby El Salvador copper mine enhance confidence in the project.”
The ongoing geochemical program has collected 193 soil samples and 32 rock-chip samples so far. Past exploration in the region has reported impressive grades for non-outcropping primary mineralization, with rock-chip samples ranging from 1% to 5% copper.
While the visual indicators of copper mineralization are promising, the company awaits definitive laboratory analyses to verify the oxide grades, with results from the geochemical sampling anticipated in mid-to-late October. Additional exploration is ongoing along both the RET and the Rosario Central Trend (RCT), with updates expected soon.
Pan Asia is also advancing its 19-line IP geophysical survey over approximately 27 line kilometers, starting at the southern end of the RET and moving northward. Upon completion of the RET survey, the focus will shift to the RCT and Rosario West Trend (RWT).
Preparations are underway for a maiden 2,500-meter reverse-circulation (RC) drilling program at Rosario, set to begin in November, targeting areas identified through the ongoing surveys.
Strategically located about 100 kilometers by road from Chilean State mining firm ENAMI’s El Salado processing plant and 40 kilometers from Codelco’s Porterillos smelter, Rosario is well-positioned for potential success. If laboratory results confirm the encouraging copper visuals, the RET’s historic prospectivity will be compelling, guiding the company’s drilling efforts in November.