i-80 Gold Reports New High-Grade Assay Results
i-80 Gold Corp (TSX:IAU, NYSE American:IAUX) recently announced impressive assay results from its drilling campaign at the Granite Creek Underground Project. The findings from 40 holes validate the high-grade mineralization in the South Pacific Zone (SPZ) while indicating possibilities for further resource expansions both to the north and at greater depths.
The Granite Creek Project marks a significant milestone as i-80 Gold's inaugural underground gold operation as they strive for a steady-state gold output. Currently, the company is actively mining at the southern tip of the SPZ. As of December 31, 2024, the site contained an estimated measured and indicated mineral resource of 261,000 ounces of gold at 10.5 grams per tonne, complemented by an inferred resource of 326,000 ounces at 13.0 grams per tonne. Located in northern Nevada's lucrative Getchell Trend, approximately 10 kilometers from the substantial Nevada Gold Mines' Turquoise Ridge Complex, which boasts an impressive resource of around 18 million ounces of gold, the Granite Creek site shows strong commercial viability.
Over the 2025 drilling season, which spanned from June to December, a total of 16,000 meters were drilled across 46 holes. The strategy included six additional infill holes not present in the initial assessment, focusing on confirming mineralization continuity ahead of an upcoming feasibility study. Findings from seven extended holes reinforced expectations of expanding mineralization in the SPZ, offering promising prospects of prolonging the mine's lifespan.
The highlights from the infill results further cement the high-grade nature of the deposit:
- - 40.4 g/t Au over 13.2 m in hole iGU25-31
- - 31.3 g/t Au over 7.8 m in hole iGU25-15
- - 15.0 g/t Au over 17.5 m in hole iGU25-24
- - 12.8 g/t Au over 19.8 m in hole iGU25-08
Tyler Hill, Vice President of Geology, remarked on the infill drilling results, pointing out that they not only support their geological model but also affirm the continuity and richness of the deposit. He emphasized the SPZ’s open potential to the north and depth, indicating that further exploration and testing will continue in following years.
The drill program is set as a crucial phase leading to the Granite Creek Underground feasibility study, scheduled for completion in the first quarter of 2026. Additionally, the results from the current drilling campaign will be combined with data gathered from 2023 and 2024 to generate an updated mineral resource estimate, which is essential for the impending feasibility report.
The recent findings echo i-80 Gold’s previous announcements such as the Preliminary Economic Assessment (PEA) issued in March 2025, projecting around an 8-year mine life with an anticipated annual yield of approximately 60,000 ounces of gold post-production ramp-up. As excitement builds around these promising results, the company is contemplating further infill and exploratory drilling for 2026.
In conclusion, the assay results from the Granite Creek Project align perfectly with i-80 Gold's strategic vision and bolster the company’s standing as a notable player within Nevada's thriving mining landscape. With continuous advancements and expansions planned ahead, i-80 Gold's future appears bright.
Summary assaying results from the SPZ drilling:
| Drillhole ID | Au (g/t) | Length (m) |
|---|
| ---- | -- | --- |
| iGS25-02A | 33.6 | 2.9 |
| iGU25-31 | 40.4 | 13.2 |
| iGU25-15 | 31.3 | 7.8 |
| iGU25-24 | 15.0 | 17.5 |
For further information, i-80 Gold encourages stakeholders to follow their progress and updates via their official communications, reflecting their commitment toward transparent and responsible mining operations.
Company Information
i-80 Gold Corp. is a mining company dedicated to expanding its portfolio in Nevada, which holds some of the richest gold deposits globally. Their ambition is poised to push forward through new developments, reframing their role in the mining industry.