JOHANNESBURG (miningweekly.com) – London-listed gemstone producer and developer Richland Resources has started the process of bringing the Capricorn Sapphire mine, in Australia, back into production, with mining operations set to start in March.
The group started the testing and commissioning of the refurbished purpose-built alluvial processing plant, which was capable of treating 200 m3/h of loose product, following the completion of redevelopment operations that got under way last year.
“The start of the commissioning process of our sapphire project in Queensland is an important milestone for Richland in developing gemstone operations in Australia. Our proven track record in gemstone mining has enabled us to redevelop the Capricorn Sapphire project on time and to budget,” Richland CEO Bernard Olivier said.
The Capricorn Sapphire project comprises two new mining leases of about 490 ha, containing a Joint Ore Reserves Committee-compliant measured resource of about 21.6-million grams, or 20.8-million carats, of sapphire, based on extensive exploration and a brief period of mining by the previous owners.
In preparation for mining, Richland has obtained quotations for the hiring of the required earthmoving fleet and other mining machinery.
The company was planning to launch the Capricorn Sapphire brand during the current quarter, with first cash flow from the sale of sapphires mined from the operation expected in the second quarter.