London-listed Gem Resources has successfully completed the refurbishment and upgrades to the processing plant at its Gravelotte emerald mine, in South Africa.

The improvements included the installation of a double-deck vibrating washing and sizing screen and other enhancements aimed at optimising throughput and minimising downtime.

During the first two weeks of operation following the upgrades, the processing plant achieved an average increase of about 45% in processing capacity. This translates to an average of about 100 t of ore processed a day.

Since completion of the upgrades, Gem Resources says, the plant has operated without any downtime related to breakdowns, describing this as a testament to the quality and durability of the enhancements.

The success of the plant upgrades has enabled the company to progress to Phase 2, with active mining operations now under way in the Cobra openpit.

The company says this marks a critical step toward securing a steady supply of high-grade ore for processing and further enhancing the quality and quantity of emeralds recovered.

In line with industry practice and local regulations, Gem Resources says Gravelotte will undergo a seasonal shutdown from mid-December to early January, during which the workforce will take their yearly leave.

Security will remain on site throughout the period, and operational activities are scheduled to resume on January 6.

It is estimated that, by building most of the equipment in-house and working with local engineering workshops, the company has managed to achieve the upgrades at about a 75% cost-saving compared to buying new equipment, such as the double deck sizing and washing screen.

As previously announced, the company says it has taken a measured and cash-conscious, phased approach to the restart of operations at Gravelotte.

The company says the new custom-made double deck vibrating and sizing screen is performing well, with the screen's robust design and larger capacity having already increased daily processing volume and reduced downtime.

Following the completion of the planned processing plant and site upgrades, Gem Resources has now initiated Phase 2 of operations which includes ongoing active mining in the Cobra openpit.

"We are pleased to report positive progress in both our mining and processing operations with the production line now performing reliably and active mining commencing in the Cobra openpit. These represent significant milestones in the company's journey.

“The next phase will be a critical step in further ramping up production, improving the quality of the emeralds recovered, as well as establishing a steady supply of high-grade ore for processing.

“I am confident that these developments will drive further growth and success as we continue to unlock the potential of the Gravelotte mine,” says Gem Resources chairperson Ed Nealon.