Lightning Minerals (ASX:L1M) has confirmed the presence of spodumene, a lithium-bearing mineral, within pegmatites at the Esperança Project in Brazil’s Lithium Valley, Minas Gerais.
The company also reported its highest lithium assay results to date from soil sampling programs at the Caraíbas and Esperança projects, with peaks of 429ppm and 320ppm lithium, respectively.
Fieldwork at Esperança uncovered a historical artisanal mine with pegmatites containing elongate spodumene crystals up to 50cm.
Raman spectroscopy confirmed spodumene as the primary lithium-bearing mineral in samples, with one specimen also indicating the presence of wodginite, a manganese-tin-tantalum oxide.
The findings highlight the project's potential, as Lightning Minerals prepares for a 2,000m drill campaign targeting depths beyond 30m to avoid weathered zones.
Soil sampling at Esperança identified lithium anomalies concentrated near the spodumene occurrence, supporting drill targeting efforts.
At Caraíbas, soil assays returned peak lithium values of 429ppm, correlating with known lepidolite mineralisation.
The Canabrava Project also reported lithium results, with infill samples confirming consistent anomalism over a 700m strike.
Managing Director Alex Biggs commented, "The past six months have been pivotal in defining strong drill targets. Our first drill campaign in Brazil marks a step change for the company, showcasing the potential of this region."
Drilling at Esperança is scheduled for the first quarter, with further exploration at Caraíbas and Canabrava to follow.
Prioritisation of targets and additional infill sampling are underway to refine future drilling strategies.
At the time of reporting, Lightning Minerals' share price was $0.081.