Zonte Metals Inc. (TSXV:ZON) (OTC:EREPF) has reported a significant update from its Cross Hills Copper Project in Newfoundland and Labrador, including the discovery of copper and silver mineralization at the N Dunns target and the progress of multiple large-scale Iron Oxide Copper-Gold (IOCG) targets toward drilling. The company has invested approximately $5 million over seven years to transform the project from an early-stage property into a district-scale IOCG system featuring nine large, drill-ready targets.
Recent geophysical surveys, particularly high-resolution gravity data, have identified strong, deep-seated anomalies that may represent mineralized systems. These anomalies exhibit dimensions up to 3,300 metres in length, 600 metres wide, and 1,000 metres in depth, with many remaining open along strike and at depth. The targets display gravity anomalies ranging from 1 to 5 mGals, suggesting significant tonnage potential. This progress positions Cross Hills as a compelling advanced exploration-stage project with scale and geological setting analogous to globally recognized IOCG systems such as Olympic Dam and Prominent Hill in Australia.
The N Dunns target, discovered this past winter through a ground gravity survey, is a large geophysical anomaly measuring up to 3,300 metres in length, 400–600 metres wide, and up to 1,000 metres thick, sitting about 100 metres below surface. Recent fieldwork above the anomaly uncovered IOCG-style mineralization at surface. Copper-silver mineralization was observed in narrow veins (2–15 cm wide), traceable for up to 150 metres before disappearing under cover. A grab sample from one vein returned assay results of 0.5% Cu, 14.3 g/t Ag, trace Au, with >10% Fe. The company notes that grab samples are selective and may not be representative, and geophysical surveys are not definitive.
With the new surface copper mineralization spatially above the target anomaly, N Dunns will now be advanced to the drill stage. Remaining exploration includes infill and extensions to both soil and gravity grids. Terry Christopher, CEO of Zonte Metals, stated: "With $5 million invested and years of exploration, we have delineated a large-scale, copper-fertile hydrothermal system at Cross Hills. The discovery of copper and silver mineralization at N Dunns is a key validation of the project’s IOCG potential and confirms nine drill targets. As we transition into the drill phase, we look forward to testing these targets and unlocking the value of this underexplored district."
More information on the Cross Hills Copper Project is available at https://www.zontemetals.com/projects/cross-hills-copper-property. Donald Blake, PGeo, is the qualified person as defined by National Instrument 43-101 and has reviewed and approved the technical disclosures in this press release.
