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Pirquitas Project, History
Pirquitas 43-101 Report
(Espanol)
Project Animation
(15MB Quicktime)
(3MB Windows Media)Pirquitas Process Facility Animation
(13MB Windows Media)
Pirquitas is the largest historical producer of tin and silver in Argentina. The following is a chronological description of historic mining on the property and our current development:
2008 The construction camp and all associated facilities on site are complete, as well as off-site pre-fabricating and marshalling facilities at lower altitudes near the regional capital of Jujuy. The project is on target to commence commissioning during the fourth quarter 2008.
2006-2007 In 2006, we announced the completion of the update of the feasibility study and proven and probable reserves for the Pirquitas Project, and announced our decision to proceed with the development of the Pirquitas mine. We also continued with the underground ramp to, and accessed, the Oploca vein mineralization.
2004-2005 With the acquisition of a 100% interest in the Pirquitas Project, we commenced updating the feasibility study completed in 1999/2000 to take into account current economic conditions. We also commenced an underground ramp to (a) provide a platform area to allow underground drilling, if required, to better define the base of the open pit in the proposed 1999/2000 feasibility study and (b) access the Oploca vein mineralization, which is located outside the proposed open pit.
1995-2003 Sunshine Argentina, Inc. acquired the Pirquitas property in a bankruptcy auction in November 1995. Sunshine Argentina Inc.'s exploration program included survey control, geophysical surveys, geological mapping, sampling, and drilling. All accessible underground workings were sampled and mapped. Sunshine Argentina Inc. also conducted extensive diamond and reverse circulation drilling from the surface and core drilling from underground. A feasibility study was completed for the project by Sunshine Argentina Inc. in 1999-2000.
1935-1990 The source of the tin placers was discovered in 1935 and mining of the tin and silver lodes started in 1935. Twelve mines operated in the area and it was often found that mineralization from one mine would turn out to be the same zone as in another, leading to the eventual interconnecting of the mines. The largest mines were San Miguel, Chocaya, Llallagua, and PotosÃ. Reported total production during this time is estimated to be 777,600 kg of silver, 9,100 tonnes of tin from placer deposits, and 18,200 tonnes of tin mined from the vein systems.
1932-1935 Tin placer deposits were first discovered in the area in 1932. Dredging of the tin placers commenced in 1933.
For details on the reserves and resources of the Pirquitas Project,view the current Resource Summary (312 kb pdf).