Ophir Metals Corp. mobilizes for sampling at HW3 Lithium-Cesium Pegmatite
By Kevin Vincent
Ophir Metals Corp. has announced the mobilization of crews to conduct a channel sampling program at the HW3 Lithium-Cesium Pegmatite, part of the Pilipas Lithium Property located in the Eeyou Istchee James Bay region of Quebec. This initiative aims to further evaluate cesium mineralization at the HW3 Pegmatite and delineate its distribution within the outcrop.
The Pilipas property benefits from proximity to significant infrastructure, including hydroelectric power lines and an all-season road, making it strategically located for exploration and development.
High-Grade Cesium Discovery
The HW3 Pegmatite gained attention during the 2024 surface exploration program, when a grab sample returned 14.2% cesium oxide (Cs₂O) and 0.71% lithium oxide (Li₂O). A subsequent site visit using handheld XRF technology confirmed elevated cesium levels, with three additional grab samples sent for lab analysis. Results are pending.
The HW3 outcrop, measuring approximately 20 by 15 metres, lies just 60 metres east of the Billy Diamond Highway. The cesium mineralization is interpreted to occur within pollucite, a rare mineral associated with highly fractionated pegmatites. The current program will use saw-cut channel samples to assess mineralization grade and distribution across the outcrop, acting as “horizontal drill holes.”
Crews will strip overburden to the north and east of the HW3 outcrop, where the mineralization remains open, before commencing channel sampling. Samples have also been submitted for detailed mineralogical analysis.
CEO’s Perspective
“As we await final assay results from the summer spodumene-focused drill program, we are excited to have crews back at Pilipas,” said Shawn Westcott, CEO of Ophir Metals. “The discovery of high-grade cesium near existing infrastructure during the 2024 program has provided a compelling opportunity to evaluate HW3 further. This work will guide our exploration efforts as we prepare for the 2025 field season.”
Cesium: A Critical Mineral
Cesium is listed as a “Critical Mineral” in Canada due to its essential role in advanced technologies and limited global supply. The mineral has applications ranging from drilling fluids to atomic clocks, GPS systems, and 5G networks.
The Tanco Mine in Manitoba, one of the world’s primary cesium mines, underscores the importance of developing additional cesium sources. It holds up to two-thirds of the world’s known cesium reserves and is currently evaluating long-term redevelopment options.
About the Pilipas Lithium Project
Ophir Metals holds an option to earn a 70% interest in the Pilipas property, a 7,100-hectare site underlain by volcano-sedimentary rocks within the Lower Eastmain Greenstone Belt. Two regional dextral faults transect the property, creating a favourable geological environment for pegmatite-hosted lithium and cesium mineralization.
Radis Project Update
Ophir has terminated its option to earn a 100% interest in the Radis property, which was held through an agreement with Eastmain Resources Inc., a subsidiary of Fury Gold Mines Ltd.
About Ophir Metals Corp.
Ophir Metals Corp. is focused on the exploration and development of mineral assets, including the Pilipas Lithium Properties in James Bay, Quebec, and the past-producing Breccia Gold Property in Lemhi County, Idaho. The Company aims to advance its diverse portfolio of projects to generate shareholder value.
Results from the HW3 sampling program and updates on the Pilipas Lithium Property will be shared as they become available.
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