Harts Range Project Amalgamated Annual Report for ML 31398, ML 31396, ML 31400, ML 31399, ML 31019, ML 31397, ML 31401 and ML 30884 for the year 22 August 2016 to 21 August 2017

Abstract

Most work done for the period has been done on the Garnet Sands project. With extensive work done on a feasibility study and pilot plant for producing a very high-grade Garnet Sand. Primarily filtration and water jet cutting grade will be targeted. Uwe Barfuss went to India to see new equipment for processing the sands without water. Garnet Sands typically require a very large amount of water to process. A 20 kg sample of the raw sand was processed through a laboratory sized plant in India to perfect the process and work is ongoing into the costs and size of a plant needed. Joint Venture discussions are ongoing, and production is envisioned for the last half of 2018. Work has also been done on the Vermiculite prospect. A feasibility study is being conducted and design and size of plant required is being investigated. A 20 kg sample has been sent to Turkey for testing and to develop a treatment plant. A zig-zag type separator is planned to be operational late 2018. Further studies and work was conducted on the Heat Treatment of the rubies, as well as cutting and polishing of the stones. Uwe Barfuss completed a trip to Thailand to see first-hand the Ruby market there. As a result, many meetings occurred, mostly with the Pranda Group in Bangkok, one of the world's largest jewellery manufacturers. Discussions are ongoing with the interest being in starting a Joint Venture company on the Ruby.