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IONIC RARE EARTHS LIMITED Capital/Financing Update 2020

Mar 9, 2020

65151_rns_2020-03-09_5e795efa-c823-4783-85eb-3fc727acb904.pdf

Capital/Financing Update

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ASX Announcement

10 March 2020

MAIDEN MINERAL RESOURCE AT MAKUUTU RARE EARTH PROJECT CENTRAL ZONE

ORO VERDE LIMITED (ASX code: OVL)

An emerging resource company focused on defining a world-class Rare Earths project

KEY PROJECTS – Uganda

Makuutu Rare Earths Project Nicaragua San Isidro Gold Project

BOARD OF DIRECTORS Executive

Marc Steffens Brett Dickson

Non-Executive Tony Rovira

MANAGEMENT - UGANDA Tim Harrison – Makuutu PM

MANAGEMENT - NICARAGUA Jacques Levy - Legal Rep.

REGISTERED OFFICE

Level 1, 34 Colin St, West Perth, WA 6005 AUSTRALIA +61 (0) 8 9481 2555

WEBSITE

www.oroverde.com.au

Key Highlights:

  • Maiden Mineral Resource Estimate for the initial drilled portion of the Makuutu Rare Earth Project is:

  • 47.3 Mt @ 910 ppm TREO, at a cut-off grade of 500 ppm TREO-Ce2O3

  • Resource grade is at the upper end of the Exploration Target range

  • The Maiden Mineral Resource is based on only 681.5 m of core drilling undertaken in late 2019 within the Makuutu Central Zone, which covers only a portion of the larger Makuutu Prospective area as represented by the Exploration Target*

  • The 2020 drilling program will commence shortly, with exploration drilling continuing to progressively test other areas of the Exploration Target to expand the Resource, and in-fill drilling undertaken to increase Resource confidence level

  • The Exploration Target for Makuutu remains at:

270 - 530 million tonnes grading 0.04 – 0.1% (400 – 1,000 ppm) TREO*

* This Exploration Target is conceptual in nature but is based on reasonable grounds and assumptions. There has been insufficient exploration to estimate a Mineral Resource and it is uncertain if further exploration will result in the estimation of a Mineral Resource.

Oro Verde Limited (“Oro Verde” or “the Company”) (ASX: OVL) is pleased to advise that it has completed the maiden Mineral Resource Estimate (“MRE”) for the Makuutu Rare Earth Element (REE) project located in Uganda, Africa.

Commenting on the issue of the resource estimate, Oro Verde Technical Director Dr Marc Steffens said:

“This initial mineral resource estimate covers only a very small portion of the Makuutu Project prospective area and there is strong potential to significantly grow future resources. Encouragingly, the resource grade is at the upper end of expectations, which is very promising for overall project potential.

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Additionally, Makuutu already demonstrates a significantly larger mineral endowment than some peer projects.

Furthermore, considering this initial resource is based on less than 700 m of drilling, the company expects to substantially expand this maiden resource with its next phase of drilling which is scheduled to start shortly.”

Summary of Maiden Mineral Resource Estimate

The Maiden Mineral Resource Estimate (MRE) for the Makuutu Rare Earth Project was prepared by independent specialist resource and mining consulting group, Cube Consulting Pty Ltd (“Cube”). A summary of the mineral resource estimate derived is shown in Table 1.

Table 1. Inferred Mineral Resource – Makuutu Central Zone (MCZ), March 2020.

Category Estimation Domain Tonnes
(Mt)
TREO
(ppm)
TREO no Ce2O3
(ppm)
Inferred Clay 47.3 910 670

The Mineral Resource has been compiled using a 500 ppm TREO minus Ce2O3 marginal cut-off grade. This cut-off has been selected based on published information from more advanced projects with comparable mineralisation and conceptual processing method. The grade-tonnage relationship of the resource, for various cut-off grades, is illustrated in Figure 1, and a Table summarising the resource estimate at various cut-off grades is included in Appendix 2.

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Figure 1. Grade-Tonnage Curve for the Maiden Makuutu Mineral Resource Estimate.

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Estimates were also made of the uranium and thorium content. Both are found in low concentrations in the deposit with uranium averaging 30 ppm U3O8 and thorium 30 ppm ThO2. These are not considered to be at significant levels.

The resource estimate has shown the REE mineralisation is distributed consistently through the clay horizon above the marginal cut-off grade. This consistency suggests an increase in resource confidence with limited infill drilling requirements.

Mineral Resource Estimate Area

The maiden MRE is limited to a portion of the Makuutu Central Zone (“MCZ”) which was drilled in late 2019, with 681.5 m of core drilling undertaken in the MCZ. Figure 2 depicts the Makuutu Rare Earth Project area, and the maiden MRE covers the area demarcated in green. Further clay-hosted REE mineralisation has been identified on the Project licence by core drilling[1] located between 6 and 12 kilometres east of the MRE and by historic RAB drilling[2] up to 10 kilometres west of the MRE.

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Figure 2. Makuutu Rare Earth Project Area with maiden Mineral Resource Estimate area highlighted (green).

The resource estimate covers the clay zone of the regolith hosted deposit and does not include the hardcap above and the basement sediments below the clay mineralisation, both of which also contain Rare Earth Mineralisation. The clay has an average thickness of 11.9 metres and is overlain by soil and hardcap with an average thickness of 3 metres. A cross-section of the resource block model, shown in Figure 3, shows the large continuous nature of the mineral resource and the presence of large higher-grade zones of resource.

1 ASX Announcement OVL, 23 December 2019; “Exploration Drilling Shows Significant Extension to REE Mineralisation”

2 ASX Announcement OVL, 28 August 2019; “Due Diligence Confirmation Of Makuutu Mineralisation Bearing Rare Earths”

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Figure 3. Cross section 57,400mN (looking north) with TREO no Ce2O3 block grades. Section width 3.5 kilometres (10x vertical exaggeration)

Current Makuutu Project Work Program

The Company is currently preparing for drilling at Makuutu to:

  • Extend the resource area initially to the east of the maiden resource area (Figure 2),

  • Generate further resource understanding and work toward upgrading resource confidence, and

  • Provide samples for metallurgical test-work over a broader area of the Project.

The program will commence in March 2020.

Also, the Company together with its Strategic Advisor, continues to engage with parties regarding the Makuutu Rare Earths Project, which includes project product off-take and marketing.

Summary of Material Information Used to Estimate the Mineral Resource.

The following is a summary of material information used to estimate the Mineral Resource, as required by Listing Rule 5.8.1 and JORC 2012 Reporting Guidelines.

Mineral Tenement and Land Tenure Status

The Makuutu Project comprises one (1) granted Retention Licence (RL1693), one (1) Retention Licence application (TN3115), and one (1) granted Exploration Licence (EL1766), located in the Republic of Uganda (Figure 1). The tenements RL1693 and EL1766 are in good standing and no known impediments exist.

The Makuutu Rare Earth Project is 100% owned by Rwenzori Rare Metals Limited, a Ugandan registered company. Oro Verde currently has a 20% shareholding in Rwenzori and may increase its shareholding to 60% by meeting expenditure commitments.

  1. OVL to contribute US$1,700,000 of expenditure by 1 October 2020 to earn up to a 51% staged interest in RRM.

  2. Oro Verde to fund to completion of a bankable feasibility study to earn an additional 9% interest for a cumulative 60% interest in RRM.

  3. During the earn-in phase there are milestone payments, payable in cash or Oro Verde shares at the election of the Vendor, as follows:

  4. US$750,000 on the Grant of Retention licence over RL1693 which is due to expire in November 2020;

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  • US$375,000 on production of 10 kg of mixed rare-earth product from pilot or demonstration plant activities; and

  • US$375,000 on conversion of existing licences to mining licences.

  • At any time should Oro Verde not continue to invest in the project and project development ceases for at least two months RRM has the right to return the capital sunk by Oro Verde and reclaim all interest earnt by Oro Verde.

Geology

The Makuutu deposit is interpreted to be an ionic adsorption REE clay-type deposits like those in South China, Madagascar and Brazil.

The mineralisation is contained within the tropical lateritic weathering profile of a basin filled with sedimentary rocks including shales, mudstones and sandstones potentially derived from the surrounding granitic rocks. These granitic rocks are considered the original source of the REE which were then accumulated in the sediments of the basin as the granites have degraded. These sediments then form the protolith that was subjected to prolonged tropical weathering.

The weathering developed a lateritic regolith with a surface indurated hardcap, followed downward by clay rich zones that grade down through saprolite and saprock to unweathered sediments (Figure 4). The thickness of the regolith is between 10 and 20 metres from surface.

The REE mineralisation is concentrated in the weathered profile where it has dissolved from its primary mineral form, such as monazite and xenotime, then adsorbed on to fine particles of aluminosilicate clays (e.g. kaolinite, illite, smectite). This adsorbed REE is the target for extraction and production of REO.

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Figure 4. Makuutu Rare Earths Project; 57,000mN Cross Section of Simplified Geology and Drill Results[3] .

Drilling Techniques and Hole Spacing

Drilling completed at the Makuutu project and used to support the mineral resource includes 41 diamond core (DDH) holes for a total of 681.5 m (Figure 5). All diamond holes are drilled from surface and oriented vertically. Drilling used a HQ size (~63.4 mm diameter) and employed triple tube techniques to maximise

3 The surface level is shown as fixed level of 1150 m as the vertical exaggeration required to capture the section width reduces the representivity of the diagram. Elevation change from west to east is approximately-30 metres.

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core recovery. Drill core was collected from a core barrel and placed in appropriately marked core trays. Down hole core run depths were measured and marked with core blocks. Core was measured for core loss and core photography and geological logging completed.

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Figure 5. Makuutu REE Project; Drill Layout with Clay Intercept Results.

Sampling

Sample lengths were determined by geological boundaries with a maximum sample length of 1 metre applied in clay zones and up to 2 metres in laterite zones where core recovery was occasionally low. Where the core contained continuous lengths of soft clay a carving knife was used to cut the core. When the core was too hard to knife cut it was cut using an electric core saw. Using either method, core was initial cut in half then one half was further cut in half to give quarter core. Quarter core was submitted to ALS for chemical analysis using industry standard sample preparation and analytical techniques. Half core was collected for metallurgical test work.

Certified reference materials (CRM), analytical blanks, and field duplicates were used as part of the QAQC procedures and were each inserted at a rate of 1:25 samples.

Sample Analysis

All DDH samples were dispatched by air freight direct to ALS laboratory Perth Australia. Sample preparation included whole sample crushing to 70% less than 2mm, Boyd rotary splitting to generate a 750 g subsample, and pulverising to achieve better than 85% passing 75 microns. Analysis for REE suite was via Lithium Borate Fusion ICP-MS (ALS code ME-MS81), with elements analysed at ppm levels. This method is considered a total analysis.

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Estimation Methodology

The geological interpretation utilised lithological logging data, and assay data to guide and control the Mineral Resource estimation. Leapfrog™ implicit modelling software was utilised to generate threedimensional wireframes of the major regolith units. Estimation domains were based on grouping of the regolith domains into three zones as defined by regolith rheology, and by comparison of regolith statistics:

  • Domain 3 – Cover zone

  • Domain 7 – Clay zone

  • • Domain 9 – Basement zone

Drill hole sample data was flagged using domain codes generated from three-dimensional mineralisation domains. Sample data was composited to one-metre downhole lengths using a best fit-method. No residuals were generated. Statistical analysis was carried out on data from all estimated domains, with hard boundary techniques employed within each estimation domain.

Outlier analysis of the composite data indicated application of top-cut values was required for Dy, Er, Eu, Gd, Ho, La, Lu, Nd, Sm, Tb, Tm, U, Y and Yb within both the cover zone and the clay zone. Top cuts were generally selected above the 99[th] percentile, with a total of 31 composites capped.

A total of 15 REE grade attributes (Y, La, Ce, Pr, Nd, Sm, Eu, Gd, Tb, Dy, Ho, Er, Tm, Yb, and Lu) and 2 deleterious elements (U, and Th) were estimated. Final estimated values are converted to stoichiometric oxide values by calculation using published ratios to support reporting of rare earth oxides (REO). The grade estimation process was completed using Leapfrog Edge software using Ordinary Kriging (OK) together with dynamic anisotropy to guide the grade interpolation parallel to the regolith boundaries. For estimation domains with insufficient sample data a variogram model from a comparable domain was assigned.

Interpolation parameters were derived using standard exploratory data analysis techniques of statistical and continuity analysis. Appropriate interpolation strategies were developed on a domain basis using kriging neighbourhood analysis (KNA) with a minimum number of 6 composites and a maximum number of 14 composites, with a restriction on the number of composites per drill hole set to four. Blocks were estimated in a single pass strategy with maximum search distances for 950 and 1500 metres depending on estimation domain. A cross section looking north with estimated TREO block grades is presented in Figure 3.

The model has a block size of 200 m (X) by 200 m (Y) by 4 m (Z) with sub-celling of 50 m (X) by 50 m (Y) by 1m (Z). Grades were estimated into the parent cells.

The block model was validated using a combination of visual and statistical techniques including global statistics comparisons, correlation coefficients comparisons, and trend plots.

Resource Classification

A range of criteria was considered by Cube when addressing the suitability of the classification boundaries. These criteria include:

  • Geological continuity and volume;

  • Drill spacing and drill data quality;

  • Modelling technique; and

  • Estimation properties, including search strategy, number of informing composites, average distance of composites from blocks and kriging quality parameters.

Blocks have been classified as Inferred, primarily based on drill data spacing in combination with other model estimate quality parameters (Figure 6).

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Figure 6. Makuutu REE Project – Inferred Mineral Resource Limits

Cut-off Grade

The Mineral Resource has been reported above a 500 ppm total rare earth oxide (TREO) minus Ce2O3 cutoff. Given the early stage of investigations at Makuutu, this cut-off has been selected based on published information from more advanced projects with comparable mineralisation and conceptual processing methods. Material above this cut-off has, in the opinion of the Competent Person, met the conditions for reporting of a Mineral Resource with reasonable prospects of economic extraction.

Mining and Metallurgy

Development of this Mineral Resource assumes mining using standard equipment and methods. The assumed mining method is conventional truck and shovel, open pit mining at an appropriate bench height.

Preliminary metallurgical test work on mineralisation at the project has been completed and previously reported (ASX release dated 18 February 2020). Results of test work indicate metallurgical recoveries of up to 75% TREE-Ce (Total Rare Earth minus Cerium) were achieved using simple extraction techniques. These results are considered adequate to achieve reasonable expectations of economic metallurgical processing of the project mineralisation.

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Project Overview

The Makuutu Rare Earth Project, located in Uganda, is significant in size and is understood to be potentially one of the largest ionic clay deposits outside of China. Drilling at the project site to date totals 47 diamond core holes and 109 historic RAB holes, with the Company working toward progressively validating its previously announced exploration target of (ASX: 4 September 2019):

270 - 530 million tonnes grading 0.04 – 0.1% (400 – 1,000 ppm) TREO*.

* This Exploration Target is conceptual in nature but is based on reasonable grounds and assumptions. There has been insufficient exploration to estimate a Mineral Resource and it is uncertain if further exploration will result in the estimation of a Mineral Resource.

The Makuutu Rare Earth Project contains ionic clay-hosted rare earth mineralisation, like those found in China, which are the source of the majority of the world’s heavy rare earths production, and vastly different to hard rock-hosted rare earths projects. Mineralisation at Makuutu occurs from surface to depths of 1520 metres where simple shallow mining methods will be applicable. The processing of ionic clays is also simple, where the clay undergoes a simple desorption process – akin to washing – in which rare earths are desorbed from the ore into a salt solution, concentrated and precipitated to create a mixed rare earth product. Tailings (the washed clay) are expected to be returned to the mined open pits and areas progressively rehabilitated. The process is expected to have a small environmental footprint.

The project area is well supported with infrastructure, which is illustrated in Figure 7. There is substantive nearby hydroelectric generation capacity with electrical grid infrastructure nearby to the project area, the project area is readily accessible with existing road and rail infrastructure nearby that connects to Kampala and Port of Mombasa, and the area has cell phone coverage. Additionally, nearby centres present a pool for a professional workforce.

The Company has acquired a 20% interest in the project and is working toward acquiring up to a further 40% interest via an “earn-in” process through the expenditure of funds, bringing its total potential interest in the project to 60%.

Key project highlights:

  1. Ion Adsorption Clay deposits are currently the lowest cost sources of rare earths in the world,

  2. Favourable concentration of high demand rare earths – Tb, Dy, Pr and Nd,

  3. Simple open pit mining, and

  4. Simple processing to produce a high-value concentrate.

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Figure 7. Map Showing Infrastructure Nearby to the Project.

Addendums

Appendix 1: Makuutu Project RRMDD Diamond Core Hole Details. Appendix 2: Inferred Grade Tonnage Data of the Makuutu Maiden Resource Estimate. JORC Code, 2012 Edition – Table 1 Report.

* ENDS ***

Authorised for release by M Steffens, Director.

For enquiries contact: Marc Steffens Executive Director +61 8 9481 2555

Brett Dickson Company Secretary +61 8 9481 2555

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Competent Persons Statements

The information in this report that relates to Mineral Resources is based on information compiled by Mr Daniel Saunders, a Competent Person who is a Member of The Australasian Institute of Mining and Metallurgy. Mr Saunders is a full-time employee of Cube Consulting Pty Ltd, acting as independent consultants to Oro Verde Limited. Mr Saunders has sufficient experience that is relevant to the style of mineralisation and type of deposit under consideration, and to the activity being undertaken to qualify as a Competent Person as defined in the 2012 Edition of the ‘Australasian Code for Reporting of Exploration Results, Mineral Resources and Ore Reserves’.

Mr Saunders consents to the inclusion in the report of the matters based on his information in the form and context in which it appears.

The information in this Report that relates to exploration results including drilling, sampling, assay and bulk density data applied to the mineral resource estimate for the Makuutu Project is based on information compiled by Mr. Geoff Chapman, who is a Fellow of the Australian Institute of Mining and Metallurgy (AusIMM). Mr. Chapman is a Director of geological consultancy GJ Exploration Pty Ltd that is engaged by Oro Verde Limited. Mr. Chapman has sufficient experience relevant to the style of mineralisation and type of deposit under consideration and to the activity being undertaken to qualify as a Competent Person as defined in the 2012 Edition of the ‘Australasian Code for Reporting of Exploration Results, Mineral Resources and Ore Reserves’ (JORC Code). Mr. Chapman consents to the inclusion in this report of the matters based on the information in the form and context in which it appears.

Information in this report that relates to previously reported Exploration Targets and Exploration Results has been crossed-referenced in this report to the date that it was originally reported to ASX. Oro Verde Limited confirms that it is not aware of any new information or data that materially affects information included in the relevant market announcements.

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Appendix 1: Makuutu Project RRMDD Diamond Core Hole Details (Datum UTM WGS84 Zone 36N).

Drill Hole ID UTM
East(m.)
UTM North
(m.)
Elevation
(m.a.s.l.)
Drill
**Type **
Hole Length
EOH(m.)
Azimuth Inclination
RRMDD001 564,447 57,983 1,158 DD 21.60 0 -90
RRMDD002 564,602 57,807 1,163 DD 15.40 0 -90
RRMDD003 564,894 57,630 1,161 DD 15.60 0 -90
RRMDD004 565,209 58,002 1,150 DD 15.60 0 -90
RRMDD005 564,617 57,016 1,154 DD 21.40 0 -90
RRMDD006 564,635 57,437 1,164 DD 20.10 0 -90
RRMDD007 564,992 57,437 1,157 DD 11.60 0 -90
RRMDD008 565,014 57,028 1,144 DD 13.60 0 -90
RRMDD009 564,207 57,405 1,172 DD 30.10 0 -90
RRMDD010 564,210 57,775 1,164 DD 14.50 0 -90
RRMDD011 563,824 57,766 1,164 DD 29.70 0 -90
RRMDD012 563,401 57,788 1,169 DD 19.40 0 -90
RRMDD013 563,848 57,440 1,171 DD 16.10 0 -90
RRMDD014 563,804 57,003 1,170 DD 14.10 0 -90
RRMDD015 564,009 56,616 1,154 DD 14.20 0 -90
RRMDD016 564,259 56,999 1,162 DD 21.69 0 -90
RRMDD017 563,789 56,419 1,152 DD 20.00 0 -90
RRMDD018 563,601 56,553 1,159 DD 13.80 0 -90
RRMDD019 563,639 56,181 1,153 DD 14.30 0 -90
RRMDD020 563,602 55,502 1,163 DD 21.60 0 -90
RRMDD021 563,596 55,789 1,153 DD 18.10 0 -90
RRMDD022 563,217 55,785 1,158 DD 17.60 0 -90
RRMDD023 563,250 56,602 1,155 DD 23.60 0 -90
RRMDD024 563,201 56,196 1,155 DD 15.00 0 -90
RRMDD025 563,216 55,508 1,163 DD 11.60 0 -90
RRMDD026 563,422 57,037 1,164 DD 16.10 0 -90
RRMDD027 563,394 57,400 1,170 DD 14.10 0 -90
RRMDD028 562,995 57,874 1,163 DD 17.90 0 -90
RRMDD029 562,826 57,635 1,159 DD 15.00 0 -90
RRMDD030 563,017 57,416 1,162 DD 18.50 0 -90
RRMDD031 562,961 57,040 1,154 DD 11.60 0 -90
RRMDD032 562,651 57,374 1,152 DD 14.50 0 -90
RRMDD033 564,585 58,149 1,154 DD 17.00 0 -90
RRMDD034 565,002 57,796 1,158 DD 12.50 0 -90
RRMDD035 565,415 57,396 1,148 DD 12.50 0 -90
RRMDD036 565,397 57,804 1,154 DD 15.00 0 -90
RRMDD037 565,416 57,008 1,136 DD 8.30 0 -90
RRMDD038 565,804 57,430 1,141 DD 19.00 0 -90
RRMDD039 566,180 57,799 1,132 DD 9.50 0 -90
RRMDD040 566,007 58,035 1,136 DD 16.50 0 -90
RRMDD041 565,799 57,806 1,149 DD 13.20 0 -90

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Appendix 2: Inferred Grade Tonnage Data of the Makuutu Maiden Resource Estimate.

Cut-off Grade
(TREO no
Ce2O3)
Tonnes
(Mt)
TREO
(ppm)
TREO no Ce2O3
(ppm)
U3O8
(ppm)
ThO2
(ppm)
200 78.5 780 560 20 30
300 73.1 800 580 20 30
400 62.5 850 610 30 30
500 47.3 910 670 30 30
600 30.7 990 730 30 40
700 15.8 1,080 810 30 40

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JORC Code, 2012 Edition – Table 1 report

Section 1 Sampling Techniques and Data

(Criteria in this section apply to all succeeding sections.)

Criteria JORC Code explanation Commentary
Sampling Nature and quality of sampling (eg cut channels, random chips, or Diamond Core Drilling
techniques specific specialised industry standard measurement tools appropriate
to the minerals under investigation, such as down hole gamma
sondes, or handheld XRF instruments, etc). These examples should
not be taken as limiting the broad meaning of sampling.
Include reference to measures taken to ensure sample representivity
Drill core was collected from a core barrel and placed in appropriately
marked core trays. Down hole core run depths were measured and
marked with core blocks. Core was measured for core loss and core
photography and geological logging completed.
and the appropriate calibration of any measurement tools or systems Sample lengths were determined by geological boundaries with a
used. maximum sample length of 1 metre applied in clay zones and up to 2
Aspects of the determination of mineralisation that are Material to the metres in laterite zones where core recovery was occasionally low.
Public Report.
In cases where ‘industry standard’ work has been done this would be
Where the core contained continuous lengths of soft clay a carving knife
was used to cut the core. When the core was too hard to knife cut it was
relatively simple (eg ‘reverse circulation drilling was used to obtain 1
m samples from which 3 kg was pulverised to produce a 30 g charge
cut using an electric core saw.
for fire assay’). In other cases more explanation may be required, Using either method core was initial cut in half then one half was further
such as where there is coarse gold that has inherent sampling cut in half to give quarter core.
problems. Unusual commodities or mineralisation types (eg
submarine nodules) may warrant disclosure of detailed information.
Quarter core was submitted to ALS for chemical analysis using industry
standard sample preparation and analytical techniques.
Half core was collected for metallurgical testwork.
Drilling Drill type (eg core, reverse circulation, open-hole hammer, rotary air Diamond Core Drilling
techniques blast, auger, Bangka, sonic, etc) and details (eg core diameter, triple
or standard tube, depth of diamond tails, face-sampling bit or other
Core size was HQ triple tube.
type, whether core is oriented and if so, by what method, etc). The core was not oriented (vertical)
Drill sample Method of recording and assessing core and chip sample recoveries Diamond Drilling
recovery and results assessed.
Measures taken to maximise sample recovery and ensure
representative nature of the samples.
Whether a relationship exists between sample recovery and grade
Core recovery was calculated by measuring actual core length versus
drillers core run lengths. Core recovery ranged from 70% to 100% and
averaged 97%.
and whether sample bias may have occurred due to preferential No relationship exists between core recovery and grade.
loss/gainof fine/coarse material.

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Criteria
JORC Code explanation
Commentary Commentary
Logging
Whether core and chip samples have been geologically and
geotechnically logged to a level of detail to support appropriate
Mineral Resource estimation, mining studies and metallurgical
studies.
Whether logging is qualitative or quantitative in nature. Core (or
costean, channel, etc) photography.
The total length and percentage of the relevant intersections logged.
All (100%) drill core has been geologically logged and core photographs
taken.
Logging is qualitative with description of colour, weathering status,
alteration, major and minor rock types, texture, grain size and comments
added where further observation is made.
Additional non-geological qualitative logging includes comments for
sample recovery, humidity, and hardness for each logged interval.
Sub-
sampling
techniques
and sample
preparation
If core, whether cut or sawn and whether quarter, half or all core
taken.
If non-core, whether riffled, tube sampled, rotary split, etc and
whether sampled wet or dry.
For all sample types, the nature, quality and appropriateness of the
sample preparation technique.
Quality control procedures adopted for all sub-sampling stages to
maximise representivity of samples.
Measures taken to ensure that the sampling is representative of the in
situ material collected, including for instance results for field
duplicate/second-half sampling.
Whether sample sizes are appropriate to the grain size of the material
being sampled.
Diamond Drill Core
Where the core contained continuous lengths of soft clay a carving knife
was used to cut the core. When the core was too hard to knife cut it was
cut using an electric core saw.
Sample lengths were determined by geological boundaries with a
maximum sample length of 1 metre applied in clay zones and up to 2
metres in laterite zones where core recovery was occasionally low.
Samples were collected from core trays by hand and placed in
individually numbered bags. These bags were dispatched to ALS for
analysis with no further field preparation.
Sample weights were recorded prior to sample dispatch. Sample mass is
considered appropriate for the grain size of the material being sampled
that is generally very fine grained and uniform.
Field duplicate sampling was conducted at a ratio of 1:25 samples.
Duplicates were created by lengthways halving the ¼ core primary
sample into 2 identical portions. Duplicate samples were allocated
separate sample numbers and submitted with the same analytical batch
as the primary sample.
Quality of
assay data
and
laboratory
tests
The nature, quality and appropriateness of the assaying and
laboratory procedures used and whether the technique is considered
partial or total.
For geophysical tools, spectrometers, handheld XRF instruments, etc,
the parameters used in determining the analysis including instrument
make and model, reading times, calibrations factors applied and their
derivation, etc.
Nature of quality control procedures adopted (eg standards, blanks,
duplicates, external laboratory checks) and whether acceptable levels
Assay and Laboratory Procedures – All Samples
Samples were dispatched by air freight direct to ALS laboratory Perth
Australia. The preparation and analysis protocol used is as follows:
ALS Code
Description
WEI-21
Received sample weight
ALS Code Description
WEI-21 Received sample weight

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Criteria
JORC Code explanation
Commentary
of accuracy (ie lack of bias) and precision have been established. LOG-22 Sample Login w/o Barcode
DRY-21 High temperature drying
CRU-21 Crush entire sample
CRU-31 Fine crushing – 70% <2mm
SPL-22Y Split sample – Boyd Rotary
Splitter
PUL-31h Pulverise 750g to 85% passing 75
micron
CRU-QC Crushing QC Test
PUL-QC Pulverising QC test

16

Criteria
JORC Code explanation
Commentary
QAQC
Diamond Drill Core Samples
•Analytical Standards
CRM AMIS0275 and AMIS0276 were included in sample batches at a
ratio of 1:25 to drill samples submitted. This is an acceptable ratio.
The assay results for the standards were consistent with the certified
levels of accuracy and precision and no bias is evident.
•Blanks
CRM blanks AMIS0681 and OREAS22e were included in sample
batches at a ratio of 1:25 to drill samples submitted for analysis. This is
an acceptable ratio.
Both CRM blanks contain some REE, with elements critical elements Ce,
Nd, Dy and Y present in small quantities. The analysis results were
consistent with the certified values for the blanks. No laboratory
contamination or bias is evident from these results.
•Duplicates
Field duplicate sampling was conducted at a ratio of 1:25 samples.
Duplicates were created by lengthways halving the ¼ core primary
sample into 2 identical portions. Duplicate samples were allocated
separate sample numbers and submitted with the same analytical batch
as the primary sample. Variability between duplicate results is
considered acceptable and no sampling bias is evident.
Laboratory inserted standards, blanks and duplicates were analysed as
per industry standard practice. There is no evidence of bias from these
results.
Verification
of sampling
and
assaying
The verification of significant intersections by either independent or
alternative company personnel.
The use of twinned holes.
Documentation of primary data, data entry procedures, data
verification, data storage (physical and electronic) protocols.
Discuss any adjustment to assay data.
No independent verification of significant intersection undertaken.
No twinning of diamond core drill holes was undertaken.
Sampling protocols for diamond core sampling and QAQC were
documented and held on site by the responsible geologist. No
procedures for data storage and management have been compiled as
yet.
Data were collected in the field by hand and entered into Excel
spreadsheet. Data are then compiled with assayresults compiled and

17

Criteria JORC Code explanation Commentary
stored in Access database. Data verification is conducted on data entry
including hole depths, sample intervals and sample numbers. Sample
numbers from assay data are verified by algorithm in spreadsheet prior
to entry int the database.
Assay data was received in digital format from the laboratory and
merged with the sampling data into an Excel spreadsheet format for
QAQC analysis and review against field data. Once finalised and
validated data is stored in a protected Access database.
Data validation of assay data and sampling data have been conducted to
ensure data entry is correct.
All assay data is received from the laboratory in element form is
unadjusted for data entry.
Conversion of elemental analysis (REE) to stoichiometric oxide (REO)
was undertaken by spreadsheet using defined conversion
factors.(Source:https://www.jcu.edu.au/advanced-analytical-
centre/services-and-resources/resources-and-extras/element-to-
stoichiometric-oxide-conversion-factors)
Element ppm
Conversion Factor
Oxide Form
Ce
1.1713
Ce2O3
Dy
1.1477
Dy2O3
Er
1.1435
Er2O3
Eu
1.1579
Eu2O3
Gd
1.1526
Gd2O3
Ho
1.1455
Ho2O3
La
1.1728
La2O3
Lu
1.1371
Lu2O3
Nd
1.1664
Nd2O3
Pr
1.1703
Pr2O3
Sm
1.1596
Sm2O3

18

Criteria
JORC Code explanation
Commentary
Criteria
JORC Code explanation
Commentary
Tb
1.151
Tb2O3
Tm
1.1421
Tm2O3
Y
1.2699
Y2O3
Yb
1.1387
Yb2O3
Rare earth oxide is the industry accepted form for reporting rare earths.
The following calculations are used for compiling REO into their reporting
and evaluation groups:
Note that Y2O3is included in the TREO, HREO and CREO calculation.
TREO (Total Rare Earth Oxide) = La2O3+ Ce2O3+ Pr2O3+ Nd2O3+
Sm2O3+ Eu2O3+ Gd2O3+ Tb2O3+ Dy2O3+ Ho2O3+ Er2O3+ Tm2O3+
Yb2O3+ Y2O3+ Lu2O3.
HREO (Heavy Rare Earth Oxide) = Sm2O3+ Eu2O3+ Gd2O3+ Tb2O3+
Dy2O3+ Ho2O3+ Er2O3+ Tm2O3+ Yb2O3, + Y2O3+ Lu2O3
CREO (Critical Rare Earth Oxide) = Nd2O3 +Eu2O3 +Tb2O3 +Dy2O3 +Y2O3
LREO (Light Rare Earth Oxide) = La2O3+ Ce2O3+ Pr2O3+ Nd2O3
HREO% of TREO= HREO/TREO x 100
In elemental form the classifications are:
Note that Y is included in the TREE, HREE and CREE calculation.
TREE: La+Ce+Pr+Nd+Sm+Eu+Gd+Tb+Dy+Ho+Er+Tm+Yb+Lu+Y
HREE: Sm+Eu+Gd+Tb+Dy+Ho+Er+Tm+Yb+Y+Lu
CREE: Nd+Eu+Tb+Dy+Y
LREE: La+Ce+Pr+Nd
Tb 1.151 Tb2O3
Tm 1.1421 Tm2O3
Y 1.2699 Y2O3
Yb 1.1387 Yb2O3
Location of
data points
Accuracy and quality of surveys used to locate drill holes (collar and
down-hole surveys), trenches, mine workings and other locations
used in Mineral Resource estimation.
Specification of the grid system used.
Quality and adequacy of topographic control.
Drill hole collar locations for holes RRMDD001 to RRMDD041 were
surveyed a relational DGPS system. The general accuracy for x,y and z
is+0.2m.
Hole locations for RRMDD042 – RRMDD046 were surveyed using
handheld GPS. The accuracyfor this type of device is considered+5m

19

Criteria JORC Code explanation Commentary
in x and y coordinates however the elevation component of coordinates
is variable and z accuracy may be low using this type of device.
Datum WGS84 Zone 36 North was used for location data collection and
storage. This is the appropriate datum for the project area. No grid
transformations were applied to the data.
No downhole surveys were conducted. As all holes were vertical and
shallow, the rig setup was checked using a spirit level for horizontal and
vertical orientation Any deviation will be insignificant given the short
lengths of the holes
Detailed topographic data was not sourced or used.
Data spacing
Data spacing for reporting of Exploration Results.
Drilling was conducted on a nominal 400m x 400m spacing.
and Whether the data spacing and distribution is sufficient to establish the
distribution degree of geological and grade continuity appropriate for the Mineral
Resource and Ore Reserve estimation procedure(s) and
classifications applied.
• _Whether sample compositing has been applied. _
Orientation Whether the orientation of sampling achieves unbiased sampling of The Makuutu mineralisation is interpreted to be in a flat lying weathered
of data in possible structures and the extent to which this is known, considering profile including cover soil, lateritic caprock, clays transitioning to
relation to the deposit type. saprolite and saprock. Below the saprock are fresh shales, siltstones and
geological If the relationship between the drilling orientation and the orientation mudstones. Pit mapping and diamond drilling indicate the mineralised
structure of key mineralised structures is considered to have introduced a regolith to be generally horizontal
sampling bias, this should be assessed and reported if material. All drill holes are vertical which is appropriate for horizontal bedding and
regolith profile.
Sample The measures taken to ensure sample security. After collection, the samples were transported by Company
security representatives to Entebbe airport and dispatched via airfreight to Perth
Australia. Samples were received by Australian customs authorities in
Perth within 48 hours of dispatch and were still contained in the sealed
shipment bags.
Samples were subsequently transported from Australian customs to ALS
Perth via road freight and inspected on arrival by a Company
representative.
Audits or The results of any audits or reviews of sampling techniques and data.
No audits or reviews have been undertaken
reviews

20

Section 2 Reporting of Exploration Results

(Criteria listed in the preceding section also apply to this section.)

Criteria
JORC Code explanation
Commentary Commentary Commentary
Mineral
tenement
and land
tenure status
Type, reference name/number, location and ownership including
agreements or material issues with third parties such as joint
ventures, partnerships, overriding royalties, native title interests,
historical sites, wilderness or national park and environmental
settings.
The security of the tenure held at the time of reporting along with any
known impediments to obtaining a licence to operate in the area.
The Makuutu Project comprises one (1) granted Retention Licence
(RL1693), one (1) Retention Licence application (TN3115), and one (1)
Exploration Licence (EL1766).
The granted tenements RL1693 and EL1766 are in good standing and no
known impediments exist. The application T3115 was formerly a portion
of a larger Exploration Licence. Exploration work conducted on this
licence included 27 RAB holes, the only diamond drill hole and 19 of the
2012 pits. The application area is excluded from field work until grant of
TN3115.
All licences are located in Republic of Uganda.
The Makuutu Rare Earth Project is 100% owned by Rwenzori Rare
Metals Limited, a Ugandan registered company. Oro Verde currently has
a 20% shareholding in Rwenzori and may increase its shareholding to
60% by meeting expenditure commitments.
1. OVL to contribute US$1,700,000 of expenditure by 1 October 2020
to earn up to a 51% staged interest in RRM as follows
Spend Interest
earned
Cumulative
Interest earned
Exercise of Option US$100,000
(Completed)
20% 20%
Expenditure contribution of US$650,000 11% 31%
Expenditure contribution of further
US$800,000
15% 46%
2. Oro Verde to fund to completion of a bankable feasibility study to
earn an additional 9% interest for a cumulative 60% interest in RRM.

21

Criteria JORC Code explanation Commentary
3. During the earn-in phase there are milestone payments, payable in
cash or Oro Verde shares at the election of the Vendor, as follows:

US$750,000 on the Grant of Retention licence over RL1693
which is due to expire in November 2020;

US$375,000 on production of 10 kg of mixed rare-earth
product from pilot or demonstration plant activities; and

US$375,000 on conversion of existing licences to mining
licences.

At any time should Oro Verde not continue to invest in the
project and project development ceases for at least two
months RRM has the right to return the capital sunk by Oro
Verde andreclaimall interest earnt by OroVerde.
Exploration Acknowledgment and appraisal of exploration by other parties. Previous exploration includes:
done by
other parties
1980: Country wide airborne geophysical survey identifying uranium
anomalies in the Project area.
1990s: French BRGM and Ugandan DGSM undertook geochemical
and geological survey over South-Eastern Uganda including the
Project area. Anomalous Au, Zn, Cu, Sn, Nb and V identified.
2006-2009: Country wide high resolution airborne magnetic and
radiometric survey identified U anomalism in the Project area.
2009: Finland GTK reprocessed radiometric data and refined the
Project anomalies.
2010: Kweri Ltd undertook field verification of radiometric anomalies
including scout sampling of existing community pits. Samples showed
an enrichment of REE and Sc.
2011: Kweri Ltd conducted ground radiometric survey and evaluated
historic groundwater borehole logs.
2012: Kweri Ltd and partner Berkley Reef Ltd conducted prospect
wide pit excavation and sampling of 48 pits and a ground gravity
traverse. Pit samples showed enrichment of REE weathered profile.
Five (5) samples sent to Toronto Aqueous Research Laboratory for
REE leach testwork.

22

Criteria JORC Code explanation Commentary
2016 – 2017: Rwenzori Rare Metals conduct excavation of 11 pits,
ground gravity survey, RAB drilling (109 drill holes) and one (1)
diamond drill hole.
The historic exploration has been conducted to a professional
standard and is appropriate for the exploration stage of the prospect.
Geology Deposit type, geological setting and style of mineralisation. The Makuutu deposit is interpreted to be an ionic adsorption REE clay-
type deposits similar to those in South China, Madagascar and Brazil.
The mineralisation is contained within the tropical lateritic weathering
profile of a basin filled with sedimentary rocks including shales,
mudstones and sandstones potentially derived from the surrounding
granitic rocks. These granitic rocks are considered the original source of
the REE which were then accumulated in the sediments of the basin as
the granites have degraded. These sediments then form the protolith that
was subjected to prolonged tropical weathering.
The weathering developed a lateritic regolith with a surface indurated
hardcap, followed downward by clay rich zones that grade down through
saprolite and saprock to unweathered sediments. The thickness of the
regolith is between 10 and 20 metres from surface.
The REE mineralisation is concentrated in the weathered profile where it
has dissolved from its primary mineral form, such as monazite and
xenotime, then adsorbed on to fine particles of aluminosilicate clays (e.g.
kaolinite, illite, smectite). This adsorbed REE is the target for extraction
and production of REO.
There is insufficient geological study to determine any geological
disruptions, such as faults or dykes, that may cause variability in the
mineralisation.
Drill hole A summary of all information material to the understanding of the The material information for drill holes relating to this announcement are
Information exploration results including a tabulation of the following information contained in Appendix 1.
for all Material drill holes:
o easting and northing of the drill hole collar
o elevation or RL (Reduced Level – elevation above sea level in
metres) of the drill hole collar
o dip and azimuth of the hole

23

Criteria JORC Code explanation Commentary
o down hole length and interception depth
o hole length.
If the exclusion of this information is justified on the basis that the
information is not Material and this exclusion does not detract from
the understanding of the report, the Competent Person should clearly
explain why this is the case.
Data In reporting Exploration Results, weighting averaging techniques, No metal equivalents values are used.
aggregation maximum and/or minimum grade truncations (eg cutting of high
methods grades) and cut-off grades are usually Material and should be stated.
Where aggregate intercepts incorporate short lengths of high-grade
results and longer lengths of low grade results, the procedure used
for such aggregation should be stated and some typical examples of
such aggregations should be shown in detail.
The assumptions used for any reporting of metal equivalent values
should be clearly stated.
Relationship These relationships are particularly important in the reporting of Down hole lengths, true widths are not known.
between
mineralisatio
n widths and
intercept
lengths

Exploration Results.
If the geometry of the mineralisation with respect to the drill hole
angle is known, its nature should be reported.
If it is not known and only the down hole lengths are reported, there
The mineralisation is interpreted to be horizontal, flat lying sediments and
weathering profile, with the vertical drilling perpendicular to
mineralisation. Any internal variations to REE distribution within the
horizontal layering was not defined, therefore the true width is considered
not known.
should be a clear statement to this effect (eg ‘down hole length, true
width not known’).
Diagrams Appropriate maps and sections (with scales) and tabulations of Refer to diagrams in body of text.
intercepts should be included for any significant discovery being
reported These should include, but not be limited to a plan view of drill
hole collar locations and appropriate sectional views.
Balanced Where comprehensive reporting of all Exploration Results is not This report contains all drilling results that are consistent with the JORC
reporting practicable, representative reporting of both low and high grades guidelines. Where data may have been excluded, it is considered not
and/or widths should be practiced to avoid misleading reporting of material.
Exploration Results.
Other Other exploration data, if meaningful and material, should be reported
Metallurgical leach testing was previously conducted on samples derived
substantive including (but not limited to): geological observations; geophysical from exploration pits, RAB drilling, and one 8.5 tonne bulk pit sample.

24

Criteria JORC Code explanation Commentary
exploration survey results; geochemical survey results; bulk samples – size and In 2012, 5 pit samples were sent to the Toronto Aqueous Research
data method of treatment; metallurgical test results; bulk density, Laboratory at the University of Toronto for leachability tests
groundwater, geotechnical and rock characteristics; potential
deleterious or contaminating substances.
In 2017, 2 pit samples were sent to SGS Laboratory Toronto for
leachability tests.
2017/18, 29 samples were collected from 7 RAB drill holes. 20 of these
were consigned to SGS Canada and 4 to Aqueous Process Research
(APR) in Ontario Canada. The remaining 5 samples were consigned to
Bio Lantanidos in Chile.
2018/19, 8.5 tonne bulk sample was consigned to Mintek, South Africa,
to evaluate using Resin-in-leach (RIL) technology for the recovery of
REE.
2019: 118 samples from 31 holes from the 2019 diamond drilling
program had preliminary variation testwork conducted TREE-Ce
extraction ranged from 3% to 75%.
Evaluation of results from these programs and testing of samples from
the project is ongoing.
Further work
The nature and scale of planned further work (eg tests for lateral
Future work programs are intended to evaluate the economic opportunity
extensions or depth extensions or large-scale step-out drilling). of the project including extraction recovery maximisation, resource
Diagrams clearly highlighting the areas of possible extensions,
including the main geological interpretations and future drilling areas,
provided this information is not commercially sensitive.
definition and estimation on the known areas of mineralisation, regional
exploration on adjoining licences and compilation of a Preliminary
Economic Assessment (PEA)

25

Section 3 Estimation and Reporting of Mineral Resources

(Criteria listed in section 1, and where relevant in section 2, also apply to this section.)

Criteria
JORC Code explanation
Commentary
Criteria
JORC Code explanation
Commentary
Database
integrity
Measures taken to ensure that data has not been corrupted by, for
example, transcription or keying errors, between its initial collection
and its use for Mineral Resource estimation purposes.
Data validation procedures used.
Data collected in the field has been validated against core photography
and original data collection files
Analytical data is received in digital format from the laboratory and
merged with the sampling data into an Excel spreadsheet format for
QAQC analysis and review against field data. Once finalised and
validated data is stored in a protected Access database.
Data validation of original sampling and assay data have been
conducted on the database on a 1:10 entries spot check basis. Data has
also been correlated against interval lengths and EOH details.
Any data entry errors identified have been correct in the database.
Site visits
Comment on any site visits undertaken by the Competent Person and
the outcome of those visits.
If no site visits have been undertaken indicate why this is the case.
The project site has been visited by the Competent Person for
Exploration Results who has observed drilling operations, reviewed drill
core, and reviewed sampling and QAQC procedures. The project has not
been visited by the Competent Person responsible for the reporting of
Mineral Resources.
Geological
interpretation
Confidence in (or conversely, the uncertainty of ) the geological
interpretation of the mineral deposit.
Nature of the data used and of any assumptions made.
The effect, if any, of alternative interpretations on Mineral Resource
estimation.
The use of geology in guiding and controlling Mineral Resource
estimation.
The factors affecting continuity both of grade and geology.
The mineral deposit is hosted in a tropical laterite regolith profile derived
from generally flat lying sediments. The regolith commences from
surface to an average depth of approximately 15 metres. All drilling was
geologically logged in the field including rock type and degree of
weathering. Following field data collection and receipt of analytical data
the deposit has been categorised on a Regolith Zone basis based on
visual observation from drill core and multi-element ratio analysis.
There is a moderate to high degree of confidence in the interpretation of
the regolith units given the flat lying and reasonably consistent nature of
the regolith.
There is unlikely to be any significant structural disruption to the
mineralisation through the resource area.
Estimation domains were based on grouping of the regolith domains into
three zones as defined by regolith rheology, and by comparison of
regolith statsitics:

26

Criteria
JORC Code explanation
Commentary
Criteria
JORC Code explanation
Commentary

Domain 3 – Cover zone

Domain 7 – Clay zone

Domain 9 – Basement zone
Dimensions
The extent and variability of the Mineral Resource expressed as
length (along strike or otherwise), plan width, and depth below
surface to the upper and lower limits of the Mineral Resource.
The overall defined mineralised zone is elongated to the north-east with
a strike extent of ~6,500m, across strike extent of ~3,000m an average
vertical thickness of 12m.
The top of the mineralised zone is defined by a thin surficial soil/hardcap
zone that averages 3.5m in thickness. The base of the mineralised zone
is defined by the top of the saprock/fresh rock boundary which extends to
an average vertical depth of 17m.
Estimation
and
modelling
techniques
The nature and appropriateness of the estimation technique(s)
applied and key assumptions, including treatment of extreme grade
values, domaining, interpolation parameters and maximum distance
of extrapolation from data points. If a computer assisted estimation
method was chosen include a description of computer software and
parameters used.
The availability of check estimates, previous estimates and/or mine
production records and whether the Mineral Resource estimate takes
appropriate account of such data.
The assumptions made regarding recovery of by-products.
Estimation of deleterious elements or other non-grade variables of
economic significance (eg sulphur for acid mine drainage
characterisation).
In the case of block model interpolation, the block size in relation to
the average sample spacing and the search employed.
Any assumptions behind modelling of selective mining units.
Any assumptions about correlation between variables.
Description of how the geological interpretation was used to control
the resource estimates.
Discussion of basis for using or not using grade cutting or capping.
The process of validation, the checking process used, the comparison
of model data to drill hole data, and use of reconciliation data if
available.
A total of 15 rare earth element (REE) grade attributes (Y, La, Ce, Pr,
Nd, Sm, Eu, Gd, Tb, Dy, Ho, Er, Tm, Yb, and Lu) and 2 deleterious
elements (U, and Th) were estimated. Final estimated values are
converted to stoichiometric oxide values by calculation using published
ratios to support reporting of rare earth oxides (REO).
The grade estimation used the Ordinary Kriging (“OK”) technique
together with dynamic anisotropy to guide the grade interpolation parallel
to the regolith boundaries.
Grade interpolation used 1m composited samples constrained by the
estimation domain hard boundaries.
An appropriate top cutting strategy (generally above the 99thgrade
percentile) was used to minimise the influence of isolated high-grade
outliers.
Interpolation parameters were derived using standard exploratory data
analysis techniques of statistical and continuity analysis. Appropriate
interpolation strategies were developed on a domain basis using kriging
neighbourhood analysis (“KNA”), which included:

Oriented ellipsoidal search radii ranged from 950m to 1500m
depending on the estimation domain;

Minimum number of samples = 6;

Maximum number of samples = 14, and

Limited to amaximumof 4samples per hole.

27

Criteria
JORC Code explanation
Commentary
Criteria
JORC Code explanation
Commentary
The maximum extrapolation distance from the last data points was no
more than 100m, which is the less than half the average drill hole
spacing (~400 m) for the deposits.
Computer software used for the modelling and estimation were:

Leapfrog Geo v5.0.4 was used for geological and estimation
domain modelling.

Leapfrog Edge v3.0 was used for grade estimation.

Supervisor v3.0 for geostatistical analysis.

Surpac v6.9 for block modelling and reporting
The estimation block model definitions are:

Non-rotated block model with an azimuth of 000ºGN;

OK panel size was set at 200m x 200m x 4m (XYZ)

Sub-block size of 50m x 50m x 1m (XYZ);

The bulk of the drilling data is on 400m by 400m grid
spacings with some local infill holes at 200m spacing, and

Appropriate search ellipses were derived from KNA with an
average search radii of 950m to 1500m and anisotropy of
15:7.5:1 to 5:4:1 (major/semi/minor).
Selection of the block size was based on the geometry of the
mineralisation, data density, and the likely degree to which selective
mining can be successfully applied to the geologically based domain
boundaries.
Estimations of U and Th elements were completed for the Mineral
Resource estimate. No other deleterious elements or other non-grade
variables of economic significance were estimated.
Correlations between the elements were determined from statistical
analysis of the REE and demonstrated strong positive correlations
between the majority of REE variables, particularly within the Clay Zone
(estimation domain 7)
The estimation model was validated using the following techniques:

Visual 3D checking and comparison of informing samples and
estimatedvalues.

28

Criteria
JORC Code explanation
Commentary
Criteria
JORC Code explanation
Commentary

Global statistical comparisons of raw sample and composite
grades to the block grades.

Comparison of correlation coefficients between composite
and block data;

Validation ‘swath’ plots by northing, easting and elevation for
each domain, and

Analysis of the grade tonnage distribution.
No by-product recoveries were considered.
No previous estimates or mining production has taken place at the
deposit.
Moisture
Whether the tonnages are estimated on a dry basis or with natural
moisture, and the method of determination of the moisture content.
Tonnes are estimated on an Insitu Dry Bulk Density basis. No moisture
content has been determined by testwork or used in estimation.
Cut-off
parameters
The basis of the adopted cut-off grade(s) or quality parameters
applied.
The adopted cut-off grade for reporting is 500 ppm TREO (excluding
Ce2O3) based on peer comparisons with similar projects and
mineralisation styles.
Mining
factors or
assumptions
Assumptions made regarding possible mining methods, minimum
mining dimensions and internal (or, if applicable, external) mining
dilution. It is always necessary as part of the process of determining
reasonable prospects for eventual economic extraction to consider
potential mining methods, but the assumptions made regarding
mining methods and parameters when estimating Mineral Resources
may not always be rigorous. Where this is the case, this should be
reported with an explanation of the basis of the mining assumptions
made.
Mineralisation is near surface, broadly flat lying, and of grades amenable
to conventional open pit mining methods.
The assumed mining method would be ‘free dig’ using truck and shovel.
Metallurgical
factors or
assumptions
The basis for assumptions or predictions regarding metallurgical
amenability. It is always necessary as part of the process of
determining reasonable prospects for eventual economic extraction to
consider potential metallurgical methods, but the assumptions
regarding metallurgical treatment processes and parameters made
when reporting Mineral Resources may not always be rigorous.
Where this is the case, this should be reported with an explanation of
the basis of the metallurgical assumptions made.
Processing of the REE mineralisation is considered relatively simple,
with the clay undergoing a desorption process in which the REE are
desorbed from the mineralisation into a salt solution, concentrated, and
precipitated to create a mixed rare earth product.
Preliminary metallurgical test work has been completed on core samples
from the project area (Oro Verde Ltd, ASX Release 18 February 2020).
This reports metallurgical recoveries up to 75% TREE minus Cerium
usingsimple extraction techniques. These recoveries compare

29

Criteria
JORC Code explanation
Commentary
Criteria
JORC Code explanation
Commentary
favourably to other known ionic clay hosted rare earth projects.
Environmen-
tal factors or
assumptions
Assumptions made regarding possible waste and process residue
disposal options. It is always necessary as part of the process of
determining reasonable prospects for eventual economic extraction to
consider the potential environmental impacts of the mining and
processing operation. While at this stage the determination of
potential environmental impacts, particularly for a greenfields project,
may not always be well advanced, the status of early consideration of
these potential environmental impacts should be reported. Where
these aspects have not been considered this should be reported with
an explanation of the environmental assumptions made.
Tailings (the processed clay) are expected to be returned to the mined
open pits and areas progressively rehabilitated.
Bulk density
Whether assumed or determined. If assumed, the basis for the
assumptions. If determined, the method used, whether wet or dry, the
frequency of the measurements, the nature, size and
representativeness of the samples.
The bulk density for bulk material must have been measured by
methods that adequately account for void spaces (vugs, porosity,
etc), moisture and differences between rock and alteration zones
within the deposit.
Discuss assumptions for bulk density estimates used in the
evaluation process of the different materials.
Bulk density has been determined from 64 individual drill core
measurements from 18 drill holes.
Measurements were made on samples of approximately 10cm length
from HQ core. Methods employed were the calliper method (54 samples)
and Archimedes method (13 samples)
Samples measured with the calliper method had dimensions recorded in
the field using a Verier calliper. Samples were then dried and weighed on
an analytical balance.
Samples tested using the Archimedes method were dried, coated with
water repellent spray then weighed dry and in water using an appropriate
analytical balance.
Bulk densities for the Clay Zone varied from 1.3 to 1.4. Density for all
regolith zones was by direct assignment based on reported
measurements.
Classification
The basis for the classification of the Mineral Resources into varying
confidence categories.
Whether appropriate account has been taken of all relevant factors (ie
relative confidence in tonnage/grade estimations, reliability of input
data, confidence in continuity of geology and metal values, quality,
quantity and distribution of the data).
Whether the result appropriately reflects the Competent Person’s
Classification of the mineral resource considered the interpretation
confidence, drilling density, demonstrated continuity, estimation statistics
(conditional bias, kriging efficiency) and block model validation results.
Based on the broad drill spacing, the Inferred Mineral resource
classification reflects the Competent Person’s view of the deposit.

30

Criteria
JORC Code explanation
Commentary
Criteria
JORC Code explanation
Commentary
view of the deposit.
Audits or
reviews
The results of any audits or reviews of Mineral Resource estimates.
No audits or review have been completed for the Mineral Resource
estimate.
Discussion of
relative
accuracy/
confidence
Where appropriate a statement of the relative accuracy and
confidence level in the Mineral Resource estimate using an approach
or procedure deemed appropriate by the Competent Person. For
example, the application of statistical or geostatistical procedures to
quantify the relative accuracy of the resource within stated confidence
limits, or, if such an approach is not deemed appropriate, a qualitative
discussion of the factors that could affect the relative accuracy and
confidence of the estimate.
The statement should specify whether it relates to global or local
estimates, and, if local, state the relevant tonnages, which should be
relevant to technical and economic evaluation. Documentation should
include assumptions made and the procedures used.
These statements of relative accuracy and confidence of the estimate
should be compared with production data, where available.
The relative accuracy of the Mineral Resource estimate is reflected in the
reporting of the Mineral Resource as per the guidelines of the 2012
JORC Code.
The statement relates to the global estimates of tonnes and grades.
No production data is available.

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