Ophir Metals Confirms High-Grade Cesium at Pilipas Lithium Property in Quebec

Ophir Metals has confirmed high-grade cesium mineralization at its HW3 Lithium-Cesium Pegmatite on the Pilipas Lithium Property in Eeyou Istchee James Bay, Quebec. The results from its 2024 channel sampling programhighlight the project’s multi-commodity potential, particularly its high concentrations of cesium oxide (Cs₂O).
Key Results from the Channel Sampling Program
The sampling program, completed in December, included four channels totaling 74.3 meters (Table 1). Highlights include:
• PCH24-001:
• 6.00% Cs₂O over 1.4 meters
• 12.40% Cs₂O over 0.5 meters
• PCH24-002:
• 5.0 meters at 1.46% Cs₂O, including:
• 3.0 meters at 2.29% Cs₂O
• 1.0 meter at 5.30% Cs₂O
• PCH24-003:
• 4.0 meters at 1.81% Cs₂O, including:
• 2.0 meters at 2.30% Cs₂O
Additionally, three grab samples collected from HW3 during an October site visit returned:
• 4.24% Cs₂O
• 0.80% Cs₂O
• 0.82% Cs₂O
These results confirm and expand a minimum 11 x 4-meter cesium-enriched zone at HW3. The pegmatite’s southern extent remains open for further exploration, with additional lithium, cesium, and tantalum markers identified.
Expanding the HW3 Pegmatite and Next Steps
The HW3 Pegmatite was expanded to 15 x 23 meters, and areas covered by overburden revealed additional high-grade zones.
“The results from the HW3 channel sampling program are what we had hoped to achieve and highlight a very successful and exciting year for Ophir Metals and the Pilipas Project,” said CEO Shawn Westcott. “The identification and further expansion of high-grade cesium at HW3 showcases the project’s multi-commodity potential and provides guidance for the 2025 exploration season.”
Cesium’s Critical Importance
Cesium is classified as a “Critical Mineral” in Canada, as it plays a vital role in:
• Global positioning systems (GPS)
• Aircraft guidance systems
• 5G internet and cellular communications
• Atomic frequency standards in precision timekeeping
With limited global supply, the Tanco Mine in Manitoba, which holds two-thirds of the world’s known cesium reserves, has faced international competition for cesium supply. Ophir’s cesium discoveries at Pilipas position the company as an emerging player in this highly strategic market.
By Kevin Vincent, Senior Contributing Editor to Mining Life Online and Mining Life & Exploration News.
Tags: Quebec / Exploration / Battery Metals / All Articles