Irving Resources (CSE:IRV) has completed detailed geological, geochemical, and geophysical surveys at its Shika Gold-Silver Project in Japan.
The company collected 56 quartz vein and float samples during the 2026 program, with 13 returning values greater than 1 grams per tonne gold (Au). Sample NT0674, a float vein sample from an area 1km south of the historical Unoya mine workings, returned 62.3g/t Au and 604g/t silver (Ag).
The sample consists of very fine-grained quartz with minor pyrite and delicate crustiform banding, containing dark silver-rich bands known as ginguro.
Irving geologists believe the gold-bearing quartz veins form part of an en echelon veining system related to a potential shear structure underlying the region.
Mapping confirms silicification and argillic alteration from hydrothermal activity has affected Early to Middle Miocene Besshodake Andesite and associated rocks throughout the historical Unoya mine area.
Gold-bearing quartz vein float occurs around the historical workings and within the separate southern area.
A drone magnetic survey identified a zone of subdued magnetic response measuring about 2.5km by 1km. The distribution of gold-bearing quartz vein float and altered rocks corresponds closely with the feature, which geologists believe results from hydrothermal alteration destroying magnetite within volcanic rocks.
Systematic grid-based soil sampling across 5.4km2 was completed from 1–13 June, collecting 548 samples along 13 lines spaced 200m apart. Results remain pending.
The Noto Project is a joint venture between Newmont Overseas Exploration (60%), Sumitomo Corp (12.5%), and Irving (27.5%). The company’s 99 prospecting licences and applications cover 337.37km2 across four target areas on the Noto Peninsula.
Irving is awaiting analytical results from the soil survey and contemplating a potential drilling program at Unoya in 2027.
The company considers initial drilling targets may occur at relatively shallow depths, with reconnaissance holes potentially ranging from 300m to 500m.
Irving Resources is a Canadian gold explorer advancing a portfolio of epithermal gold-silver projects in Japan.
Write to JC Villarba at Mining.com.au
Images: Irving Resources
