Ophir Metals has started the first drill-hole of its drill programme at the Pilipas Lithium Property in the Eeyou Istchee James Bay region of Quebec, Canada.

The drilling campaign aims to explore the HW1 Spodumene Pegmatite, which was identified during the summer's surface exploration.

Covering 10–15 holes spanning 2,000m, the programme seeks to investigate the pegmatite's depth and strike length.

This follows results from grab sample assays, with 15 samples resulting in lithium oxide (Li2O) concentrations exceeding 1.0%, and a peak value of 3.47% Li2O.

Youdin-Rouillier Drilling has been contracted for the diamond drilling operations at the project, while Dahrouge Geological Consulting is responsible for managing the programme.

Drilling is expected to continue until mid-September 2024.

Ophir is also awaiting analysis of 138 surface samples from the recent summer exploration at the Pilipas project, which includes several other pegmatite occurrences on the property.

Ophir CEO Shawn Westcott said: "Our team has done an excellent job to coordinate the drill programme so quickly following completion of the surface sampling programme.

“We are extremely excited to have the drill turning and look forward the coming weeks as we test the extent of HW1 Pegmatite mineralisation at depth."

In 2023, Ophir signed an option agreement with Azimut Exploration to earn a 70% interest in the Pilipas Lithium Project.

Under the option agreement, Ophir can initially earn a 50% interest after completing its commitments in the second year and a 70% interest after fulfilling its commitments in the third year.

After Ophir earns a 70% interest, the two companies will form a joint venture (JV).

In the event of Ophir earning only a 50% interest, the JV will be equally split.