Solstice Gold Corp. (TSXV: SGC) (“
Solstice”, “we”,
“our” or the “
Company”) is pleased to provide an
update on the exploration program at its Stewart Lake Project
(“
SLP”) in the English River Subprovince
(“
ERS”), approximately 275 km NNE of Thunder Bay,
Ontario.
Solstice’s 2023 exploration program covered the
majority of the SLP Property using road, boat, and helicopter-based
prospecting traverses, as well as an initial soil survey. Over 350
pegmatites have been delineated through 2023 prospecting and
historical drilling and are widely distributed across the property.
A combination of high pegmatite density, fertile mineral
assemblages, and elevated lithium in indicator minerals, summarized
in this News Release, define a broad swath of fractionated fertile
pegmatites coincident with major regional structures in the east
and southeast of SLP (see Figure 1) which we
believe suggest high potential for spodumene mineralization in the
area.
Major faults traversing the property define a
sub-domain boundary zone. These juxtapose two structurally distinct
granite – migmatite terrains and bound a regionally extensive iron
formation and metasediment stratigraphy. The most fractionated
pegmatites and most promising geochemical signatures are developed
within these fault zones, especially where associated with the iron
formation package. The most fractionated pegmatites occur mainly in
the east and southeast part of the project area, where numerous
pegmatites occur, some with thicknesses exceeding 25m and crystals
of albite up to 1m across. Over 14km strike length of this target
area remains to be explored and will be the focus of exploration in
2024.
Pablo McDonald, Solstice CEO stated, “Our
technically focused program of mapping, hand-held LIBS and whole
rock geochemistry demonstrate that our district-scale SLP project
contains an extensive, fractionated pegmatite field in an
attractive structural setting. By analogy to the history of known
lithium districts in Ontario, we believe that the potential for
discovery of lithium mineralization at SLP is high. It is important
to note that much of the target area that we have vectored towards
remains open for exploration. The next step is to focus exploration
on the 14 km target area that exhibits promising indicators of LCT
fertility.”
Pegmatite Geochemistry Compares
Favourably with Established LCT Pegmatite Districts
Extensive geochemical analysis using LIBS1 and
whole rock geochemistry2 show indicators of fertility across the
property with the best values being found within the sub-domain
boundary structural zone, especially in its southeastern part of
the project area. Whole rock geochemistry of these pegmatites
compares favourably with other established pegmatite districts –
particularly the Quetico Subprovince and the Allison Batholith3
areas, both of which host numerous spodumene-bearing pegmatites and
lithium deposits. Key results include:
- Elevated
Lithium in Alkali Feldspars: A total of 63 (22%) of
analyzed alkali feldspars contain detectable lithium, ranging from
10 ppm to 2,080 ppm (i.e. 0.45% Li2O – see Figure
1 and Table 1). Elevated lithium in
potassium feldspar at SLP is widespread and is best-developed in
the southeastern part of the project area. Elevated lithium in
alkali feldspar has been shown to be a reliable indicator for the
presence of spodumene in lithium districts4,5. The lithium contents
and distributions of alkali feldspars at SLP (Figure
1) are comparable to those found in these districts and
are considered by Solstice to be a positive indication of potential
spodumene mineralization. The distribution of elevated Lithium in
potassium feldspar at SLP is independently supported by whole rock
data, particularly K/Rb ratios, discussed below.
-
Fractionated K/Rb ratios: Selway
et al.6 suggest that K/Rb ratios below 270 are a good indicator of
advanced fractionation in pegmatite exploration. Low K/Rb ratios
are developed in several parts of the SLP project, particularly in
the SE part of the project area (Figure 1).
Analyses of K/Rb vs K/Cs plots for SLP pegmatites suggest that the
SLP data fall within the fields of the Allison Lake Batholith and
Quetico areas (OGS MRD111), both of which host lithium-bearing
pegmatites and have lithium deposits.
Figure 1: Lithium in Alkali Feldspars and K/Rb Ratios at
SLP. Note: Li values >100 in alkali feldspar is
labelled. See Table 1 in Data Sources for summary statistics and
References for analytical details.
Multi-Element Soil Anomalies Defines Additional Fertile
Pegmatite Potential
Based on the development of fractionated
pegmatites in the southeastern part of the project area, a test
soil survey (Ah, humus) was carried out to determine the
effectiveness of this technique to aid exploration of the largely
overburden-covered iron formation target area which extends
>14km to the west. Historical diamond drill logs of the iron
formation reported in government files document extensive
pegmatites over this strike length.
Soil Survey results exhibit elevated
multielement anomalism (Li-Rb-Cs-Nb-Be) adjacent to exposed
pegmatites discussed above. Stronger anomalies are identified in
other overburden covered areas of the limited survey identifying
new targets and demonstrating the utility of soils surveys in LCT
pegmatite exploration. The strongest results define anomalies that
crosscut the stratigraphic trend and are present where there is no
outcrop or historical drilling (see Figure 2).
These anomalies suggest that an expanded soil program has the
potential to delineate additional pegmatite targets.
Figure 2: SLP Soil Survey showing Lithium concentrations
in soils, K/Rb values, and known pegmatitesSee Table 2 for
statistical data related to geochemical analysis on soil
samples.
David Adamson, Solstice Chairman, stated “Our
first pass exploration of this district-scale project has been very
successful and confirms a newly-identified area of fertile
pegmatites in a permissive structural setting which we believe
demonstrates good potential for lithium discovery. Our analysis of
project data suggests that SLP is geochemically similar to other
evolved pegmatite districts in Ontario that were subsequently found
to host spodumene mineralization. Our goal is to replicate this
success as we vector towards discovery.”
Sampling and Analytical Protocols
Soils:
An approximately 250 g sample of Ah (humus) soil was collected
in standard kraft sample bags at 100 metre stations along 200 m
spaced lines. Samples were shipped to Activation Laboratories Ltd.
(ActLabs) in Ancaster Ontario. At ActLabs, the sample was dried and
0.5g of sample material was digested using Aqua Regia and
subsequently analyzed by ICPMS analysis for 63 elements (package
UT1). In addition to internal ActLabs controls, internal standards
were inserted into the sample stream. ActLabs is independent of
Solstice and its consultants.
Whole Rock:
Sample material weighing from 1 to 2 kg is selected and placed
in plastic bags. Sample details and a GPS coordinate were recorded.
A sample tag with the sample number is tied with flagging tape to
an example of the sample and left in the field. A duplicate sample
tag is placed in the sample bag. The samples were delivered
directly to the lab in Thunder Bay, Ontario by Solstice employees.
Analysis method: Peroxide (Total) Fusion, ICP-OES & ICP-MS with
55 elements that include detection levels for Li of 15ppm -
50,000ppm and Rb of 0.4ppm - 5,000ppm (ActLabs code UT7). Sodium
peroxide fusion provides total metal recovery and is effective for
the decomposition of sulphides and refractory minerals which are
common to pegmatites.
Data Sources and References
LIBS:
Initial analysis of samples from Solstice's site visit were done
using a Sci-Labs Z-300 LIBS (laser-induced breakdown spectroscopy)
analyzer. Lithium data were calibrated against LCT pegmatite
standard GTA-06. Data should be considered semi-quantitative, but
are independently confirmed by whole rock data (K/Rb values, for
example). In addition, at least four analyses per mineral were
carried out (two in “Geochem” mode, two in Element Pro mode).
Table 1: Summary statistics for Lithium in LIBS
for Alkali Feldspars
Statistic |
Li_ppm |
Number of observations |
63 |
|
Minimum |
20.000 |
|
Maximum |
2080.000 |
|
1st Quartile |
60.000 |
|
Median |
80.000 |
|
3rd Quartile |
115.000 |
|
Mean |
176.984 |
|
Variance (n-1) |
121234.306 |
|
Standard deviation (n-1) |
348.187 |
|
Note: analyses contain >1.5% Mg and/or Fe were rejected for
inclusion in the statistics and in Figure 1.
Table 2: Summary statistics for Soil
Samples
Statistic |
Li_ppm |
Cs_ppm |
Rb_ppm |
Ga_ppm |
Nb_ppm |
Sn_ppm |
Number of observations |
134 |
134 |
134 |
134 |
134 |
134 |
Minimum |
0.100 |
0.060 |
0.400 |
0.010 |
0.050 |
0.025 |
Maximum |
8.100 |
1.480 |
11.500 |
7.070 |
1.400 |
1.280 |
1st Quartile |
0.300 |
0.200 |
1.200 |
0.010 |
0.100 |
0.180 |
Median |
0.700 |
0.335 |
2.250 |
0.470 |
0.200 |
0.310 |
3rd Quartile |
1.575 |
0.508 |
4.500 |
1.288 |
0.400 |
0.500 |
Mean |
1.244 |
0.378 |
3.123 |
0.813 |
0.337 |
0.381 |
Variance (n-1) |
1.993 |
0.060 |
6.372 |
1.115 |
0.098 |
0.064 |
Standard deviation (n-1) |
1.412 |
0.246 |
2.524 |
1.056 |
0.313 |
0.253 |
1 LIBS (laser-induced breakdown spectroscopy) using a Sci-Labs
Z-300 analyzer. Lithium data calibrated against LCT pegmatite
standard GTA-06. Data should be considered semi-quantitative
pending confirmation by other analytical techniques. See Data
Sources and References above.
2 Rock chip and channel samples were taken in the field and sent
to ActLabs in Thunder Bay, Ontario for analysis. Samples were
tested using the UT-7 analytical package using QOP Sodium Peroxide
(Sodium Peroxide Fusion ICPOES + ICPMS). Also see Sampling
Protocols, above.
3 When K/Rb versus K/Cs values from SLP pegmatites are plotted
against other pegmatite districts, the data show good overlap with
the Quetico and Allison Lake pegmatite district fields. Internal
SGC analysis and comparison with data from OGS MRD111.
4 Maneta, V. and Baker, R. The potential of lithium in alkali
feldspars, quartz, and muscovite as a geochemical indicator in the
exploration for lithium-rich granitic pegmatites: A case study from
the spodumene-rich Moblan pegmatite, Quebec, Canada, Journal of
Geochemical Exploration, Volume 205, 2019, 106336, ISSN 0375-6742,
https://doi.org/10.1016/j.gexplo.2019.106336.
5 Morozova,L. et al. Distribution of Trace Elements in
K-Feldspar with Implications for Tracing Ore-Forming Processes in
Pegmatites: Examples from the World-Class Kolmozero Lithium
Deposit, NW Russia. Minerals 2022, 12, 1448.
https://doi.org/10.3390/ min12111448
6 Selway et al. A Review of Rare-Element (Li-Cs-Ta) Pegmatite
Exploration Techniques for the Superior Province, Canada, and Large
Worldwide Tantalum Deposits. Exploration and Mining Geology, Vol.
14, Nos. 1-4, pp. 1-30, 2005.
About Solstice Gold Corp.
Solstice is an exploration company with quality,
district-scale gold and lithium projects in established mining
regions of Canada. Our 268 km2 SLP lithium property is located in
the English River Subprovince in an area that has recently garnered
significant interest for its potential to host rare metals. Our 194
km2 Red Lake Extension (RLX) and New Frontier projects are located
at the northwestern extension of the prolific Red Lake Camp in
Ontario and approximately 45 km from the Red Lake Mine Complex
owned by Evolution Mining. Our 322 km2 Atikokan Gold Project is
approximately 23 km from the Hammond Reef Gold Project owned by
Agnico Eagle Mines Limited. Our Qaiqtuq Gold Project which covers
886 km2 with certain other rights covering an adjacent 683 km2,
hosts a 10 km2 high grade gold boulder field, is fully permitted
and hosts multiple drill-ready targets. Qaiqtuq is located in
Nunavut, only 26 km from Rankin Inlet and approximately 7 km from
the Meliadine Gold Mine owned by Agnico Eagle Mines Limited. An
extensive gold and battery metal royalty and property portfolio of
over 80 assets was purchased in October 2021. Over $2 million in
value and three new royalties have been generated since the
acquisition.
Solstice is committed to responsible exploration
and development in the communities in which we work. For more
details on Solstice Gold, our exploration projects and details on
our recently acquired portfolio of projects please see our
Corporate Presentation available at www.solsticegold.com.
Solstice’s Chairman, David Adamson, was a
co-award winner for the discovery of Battle North Gold
Corporation's Bateman Gold deposit and was instrumental in the
acquisition of many of the district properties in the Battle North
portfolio during his successful 16 years of exploration in the Red
Lake.
Sandy Barham, M.Sc., P.Geo., Senior Geologist,
is the Qualified Person as defined by NI 43-101 standards
responsible for reviewing and approving the technical disclosures
of this news release.
Neither TSX Venture Exchange nor its
Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the
policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for
the adequacy or accuracy of this release.
On Behalf of Solstice Gold
Corp. Pablo McDonald, Chief Executive OfficerFor further
information on Solstice Gold Corp., please visit our website at
www.solsticegold.com or contact:Phone: (604)
283-7234info@solsticegold.com
Forward-Looking Statements and
Additional Cautionary Language
This news release contains certain
forward-looking statements (“FLS”) including, but not limited to
rare metal pegmatites prospectively, the need for more prospecting
and analysis, reconnaissance prospecting in currently unexplored
areas of the project, the focus of follow-up efforts on promising
geochemical and mineralogical anomalies, the potential for LCT
pegmatites to be high, and the extension of in-depth systematic
prospecting and sampling program in the fall. FLS can often be
identified by forward-looking words such as “approximate or (~)”,
“emerging”, “goal”, “plan”, “intent”, “estimate”, “expects”,
“potential”, “scheduled”, “may” and “will” or similar words
suggesting future outcomes or other expectations, beliefs, plans,
objectives, assumptions, intentions or statements about future
events or performance. In respect of the FLS, the Company has made
certain assumptions that management believes are reasonable at this
time. The assumptions include that the Company will have sufficient
financial resources for fall sampling and prospecting, that
pegmatite discoveries will be to the level anticipated however,
there can be no assurance that such assumptions and statements will
prove to be accurate and actual results could differ materially
from those anticipated in such statements. Factors that could cause
actual results to differ materially from any FLS include, but are
not limited to, limited capital or access to additional capital for
prospecting, delays in obtaining or failures to obtain required
TSXV, governmental, environmental or other project approvals,
inflation, changes in exchange rates, fluctuations in commodity
prices, delays in the development of projects, regulatory approvals
and other factors. FLS are subject to risks, uncertainties and
other factors that could cause actual results to differ materially
from expected results.
Potential shareholders and prospective investors
should be aware that these statements are subject to known and
unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors that could cause
actual results to differ materially from those suggested by the
FLS. Shareholders are cautioned not to place undue reliance on FLS.
By their nature FLS involve numerous assumptions, inherent risks
and uncertainties, both general and specific that contribute to the
possibility that the predictions, forecasts, projections and
various future events will not occur. Solstice undertakes no
obligation to update publicly or otherwise revise any FLS whether
as a result of new information, future events or other such factors
which affect this information, except as required by law.
Photos accompanying this announcement are available
at:https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/6a869034-4e2e-4265-be32-ded7d1f72f92https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/11c232ec-8055-4290-ba6d-3ddecc7d72f3
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