Imperial launches drilling at Sterling (July 01, 2002)

Vancouver — Imperial Metals (III-V) has begun follow-up exploration drilling at the Sterling gold mine property in southwestern Nevada.

The program is designed to test the extent and continuity of the recently discovered high-grade gold mineralization in the 144 Zone. Imperial will use rotary and diamond drills to test the zone.

The 144 Zone is close to a high-angle structure and is described as a highly silicified and brecciated silty carbonate. It is also said to resemble the large, high-grade Carlin-type deposits.

Discovery hole 7A intersected 33.5 metres grading 5.14 grams gold per tonne and included 10.83 grams over 6.1 metres. Hole 9 intersected 13.5 metres grading 19.56 grams gold, including 6.1 metres of 35.41 grams gold.

The 144 Zone is 213 metres below surface and 91 metres beneath the deepest underground workings at the Sterling mine. Once further drilling has delineated the 144 Zone, crews will build a decline to test the zone underground. The structure remains open at depth, as well as laterally.

The Sterling property is near Beatty, Nev., 185 km northwest of Las Vegas. The Sterling claims and minesite cover 12.54 sq. km and are subject to a 2.25% net smelter return royalty.