London-listed Gem Resources, formerly URA Holdings, has reported that Phase 1 of the restart at the Gravelotte emerald mine, in Limpopo, South Africa, has been under way for about six months.

During this period, the company has processed about 5 500 t of ore, primarily sourced from tailings and stockpiled materials. Initial results from Phase 1 have highlighted several key items and opportunities to enhance operational efficiency.

To capitalise on these findings, Gem Resources has engaged two local engineering firms to support its in-house team in manufacturing, installing and modifying components within the processing plant, which will boost its production capacity.

Moreover, the company says this initiative is aimed at improving recovery rates and minimising delays caused by equipment downtime.

Additionally, general site infrastructure has been systematically upgraded since the start of Phase 1.

KEY UPGRADES

A major improvement involves replacing the current screening trommel with a custom-made double-deck vibrating washing and sizing screen.

The new screen, now on site, is expected to be installed within a week, followed by calibration and fine-tuning.

Gem Resources says the new screen's robust design and larger capacity are projected to significantly increase daily processing volume and reduce downtime.

The company will update shareholders on the efficiency gains achieved after the screen has been operational for a sufficient period.

MINING OPERATIONS

In Phase 1, the material processed has primarily been from stockpiles and tailings, while some material removed as part of the preparation for the start of mining activities in both the Cobra and Discovery openpits, was also processed.

Gem Resources says preparations for the start of mining in the Cobra and Discovery openpits have been successful, with material cleared and access roads now completed in preparation for the start of mining activities at Level 8 in the Cobra pit and Levels 1 and 6 in the Discovery pit.

Upon completing the planned processing plant upgrades, Gem Resources notes that it will shortly initiate active mining in both the Cobra and Discovery openpits.

The company explains that this 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.

"We are pleased by the progress made during Phase 1 of Gravelotte's restart, which demonstrates the mine's potential to resume its historic position as a major source of emeralds.

“The upgrades and equipment additions will improve recovery rates and minimise production delays. As part of the startup phase, we were hoping to conduct a small trial sale in late September, but due to circumstances beyond our control we were unable to do so.

“We are currently looking at options to conduct a trial sale in the near future while we continue to stockpile material. I look forward to sharing further updates to keep shareholders informed of our journey of growth and renewal at Gravelotte,” says Gem Resources chairperson Ed Nealon.