Highlights
- New rare earths discovery near existing resource in Brazil
- Drilling results show key minerals for clean energy technologies
- Expanded drilling program now underway with multiple rigs
St George Mining Accelerates Rare Earths Campaign in Brazil
St George Mining (ASX:SGQ) has revealed a significant rare earths discovery at its Araxá Project in Brazil, located close to an existing JORC-compliant resource. The breakthrough follows a round of shallow auger drilling, which confirmed extensive rare earth mineralisation across several locations. This find is particularly notable for its proximity to a known resource, making development more streamlined and potentially cost-effective.
In the first phase, numerous drill holes encountered mineralisation just below the surface, with many holes ending within mineralised zones — indicating mineral continuity at depth. These early results have set the stage for further exploration through a follow-up program now underway involving reverse circulation and diamond drilling.
Among the elements identified, neodymium and praseodymium stand out. Both are essential components in manufacturing permanent magnets, which are widely used in electric vehicles and wind turbines — technologies central to the clean energy transition. As global demand for such materials rises, companies like St George Mining are becoming increasingly relevant in broader energy and technology conversations.
This latest discovery strengthens the company’s position in the rare earths space and expands its footprint in a highly sought-after resource area. The company has already activated five drilling rigs at the site to further test mineral continuity and scale.
Development Near Known Resources
The new rare earths zone lies only about a kilometre from the established resource, a location that may offer logistic and operational benefits. Exploring close to a defined deposit also helps reduce uncertainties that typically come with greenfield exploration.
Further upside potential exists towards the centre of the carbonatite, where past drilling revealed elevated niobium values — a critical mineral in advanced alloy manufacturing and electronics.
Rare Earths Role in Energy Future
As nations pursue energy transition goals, rare earths remain a key part of the supply chain. While St George Mining is not currently part of the ASX 100 companies, its progress in rare earths exploration puts it on the radar as resource developments become more strategically important.
Frequently Asked Questions
- What has St George Mining discovered in Brazil?
A new rare earths zone near its existing project area, featuring minerals used in clean energy technologies. - What minerals were found during the drilling program?
Key rare earth elements including neodymium and praseodymium. - Is further exploration underway?
Yes, the company has initiated deeper drilling using five rigs to explore the mineralised zone further.