Everest Metals (ASX: EMC) has released new high-grade rubidium results from its Phase 2 drilling program at the Mt Edon Critical Mineral Project in Western Australia. The work aims to expand and upgrade the existing resource ahead of a planned update in the March quarter of 2026.
Recent assays confirm thick zones of near-surface mineralisation and extend the project’s high-grade corridor. Rubidium, used in aerospace systems, advanced electronics, specialty glass and defence technologies, commands premium pricing due to limited global production. With China dominating supply, new discoveries in stable jurisdictions draw strong interest from buyers seeking diversity.
Thick Pegmatite Zones Strengthen Resource Outlook
Everest drilled more than 2,500 metres across reverse-circulation, slimline RC and diamond holes. All 19 RC holes intersected pegmatite, and assays have been returned for 1,813 metres. The company recorded a standout intersection of 120 metres at 0.22% rubidium oxide from surface, including 26 metres at 0.40% rubidium oxide from 82 metres.
Additional strong intervals include:
- 20 metres at 0.37% from 50 metres,
- 68 metres at 0.31% from 59 metres, and
- 29 metres at 0.34% from 50 metres.
A peak assay of 0.79% rubidium oxide occurred within a one-metre sample in hole 25A-12. Lithium and caesium were also encountered, with one interval returning 5.7% lithium oxide over one metre.
These results reinforce a mineralised strike extending more than 500 metres and open to both the northeast and southwest. The deposit geometry remains consistent, with the main pegmatite dipping east and averaging 40 metres in thickness.
Advancing Metallurgy and Mining Preparations
Metallurgical test work is underway, targeting efficient recovery of rubidium-rich mica minerals. Coarse-grained mica identified in drilling suggests favourable liberation characteristics, reducing processing energy requirements. Programs include hyperspectral core scanning, mineralogical analysis and beneficiation trials.
Everest is preparing a Mining Proposal and Mine Closure Plan, supported by a granted mining lease and completed baseline environmental surveys. Submission is targeted for late March quarter 2026.
Market
Rubidium is required for ion engines, atomic clocks, fibre-optic systems, infrared sensors and specialist pharmaceutical compounds. Global supply remains scarce, and rubidium carbonate has recently traded near USD 1,170 per kilogram. The Mt Edon project offers one of the few emerging primary rubidium opportunities in a Tier-1 jurisdiction.
With mineralisation starting at surface, the deposit is suited to low-strip open-pit mining, supporting competitive production costs. A resource upgrade next quarter will incorporate the new drill data.
