Key Findings from the Second Drill Hole
Lodestar Minerals has made significant progress at its Three Saints project in Chile, with the second drill hole (L3SDD004) revealing visible copper and sulphides across multiple intervals. The mineralisation was observed from 219 metres to 510m depth, indicating a potential large-scale system. This discovery is particularly noteworthy as it is located 700m away from the maiden hole (L3SRD003), suggesting that the mineralisation extends over a considerable area.
The presence of native copper, chalcopyrite, and associated sulphides in the second hole aligns with an IOCG-style system, which is known for hosting copper, gold, and other valuable metals. This type of mineralisation is consistent with the geological interpretation of the area, which includes a large geophysical anomaly. The company’s CEO, Coraline Blaud, highlighted the significance of these findings, noting that the second hole reinforces the potential scale of the system.
Geology and Alteration Features
The second hole exhibits strong and continuous alteration, which is closely associated with sulphides and key minerals such as actinolite and magnetite. These features are indicative of a well-developed hydrothermal system, which is typical of IOCG deposits. The alteration intensity and sulphide content increase with depth, further supporting the idea of a large, potentially economic mineralised system.
Drilling is still ongoing, and the final depth of the hole will be determined by geological observations. The results from the second drill hole are contributing to a better understanding of this fully undercover IOCG system, which was initially identified in the maiden hole. The ability to reproduce and extend mineralisation over a 700m strike length provides increasing confidence that the team is moving towards the core of the system.
Strategic Location and Infrastructure
The Three Saints project is situated in the Coastal Cordillera of Chile, within a recognised metallogenic belt that hosts several IOCG deposits. One of the notable nearby deposits is the Candelaria mine, operated by Lundin Mining. This mine is approximately 65km away and produced around 145,000 tonnes of copper and 80,000 ounces of gold equivalent in 2025. The proximity to established infrastructure, including being about 35km from the coast and 20km from a major highway, adds to the project’s appeal.
Drilling at L3SDD004 is ongoing, with a current planned depth of 600m. The potential for extension depends on geological observations, and the company is systematically logging and sampling core. Material is being prepared for multi-element assay, including copper, gold, and silver, to determine the economic viability of the mineralisation.
Assay Results and Future Plans
While the initial observations are based on visual estimates, laboratory assays are required to determine copper grades and economic significance. Lodestar expects assay results from the maiden hole by the end of May, with results from the second hole anticipated in early July. These assays will provide more detailed information on the mineralisation and help guide future exploration efforts.
The company continues to focus on expanding its understanding of the Three Saints project, with the potential for a large, open-ended IOCG-style mineralised system. The combination of geological, alteration, and mineralisation features observed so far suggests that the project has significant exploration potential.
Conclusion
The recent drilling results at the Three Saints project highlight the potential for a large-scale IOCG-style mineralised system. The presence of visible copper and sulphides, along with strong alteration features, supports the company’s interpretation of a significant geological structure. With ongoing drilling and upcoming assay results, Lodestar Minerals is well-positioned to further explore and develop this promising project in one of Chile’s most prospective regions.
