UNITED STATES

SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION

Washington, D.C. 20549

 

 

FORM 6-K

 

 

Report of Foreign Issuer

Pursuant to Rule 13a-16 or 15d-16 of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934

 

 

For the month of August, 2015

 

 

Commission File Number 000-54420

 

 

SILVERCREST MINES INC.

(Translation of registrant’s name into English)

 

 

Suite 501, 570 Granville Street Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada V6C 3P1

(Address of principal executive offices)

 

 

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant files or will file annual reports under cover Form 20-F or Form 40-F

 

  Form 20-F ☐   Form 40-F ☒

 

Indicate by check mark if the registrant is submitting the Form 6-K in paper as permitted by Regulation S-T Rule 101(b)(1): ☐

 

Note: Regulation S-T Rule 101(b)(1) only permits the submission in paper of a Form 6-K if submitted solely to provide an attached annual report to security holders.

 

Indicate by check mark if the registrant is submitting the Form 6-K in paper as permitted by Regulation S-T Rule 101(b)(7): ☐

 

Note: Regulation S-T Rule 101(b)(7) only permits the submission in paper of a Form 6-K if submitted to furnish a report or other document that the registrant foreign private issuer must furnish and make public under the laws of the jurisdiction in which the registrant is incorporated, domiciled or legally organized (the registrant’s “home country”), or under the rules of the home country exchange on which the registrant’s securities are traded, as long as the report or other document is not a press release, is not required to be and has not been distributed to the registrant’s security holders, and, if discussing a material event, has already been the subject of a Form 6-K submission or other Commission filing on EDGAR.

 

 

 

 
 

 

 

 

SIGNATURE

 

Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, the registrant has duly caused this report to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned, thereunto duly authorized.

 

  SILVERCREST MINES INC.
   
  /s/ N. Eric Fier                                             
Date: August 28, 2015 N. Eric Fier
  Chief Operating Officer

 

   
 

 

 

 

 

 

 

INDEX TO EXHIBITS

 

99.1

Technical Report - Mineral Resource Estimate for the Cruz de Mayo Property, Sonora, Mexico

99.2 Certificate of qualified person
99.3 Consent of qualified person

 

 



 

Exhibit 99.1

 

MINERAL RESOURCE ESTIMATE for the

Cruz de Mayo property, sonora, mexico

 

NI 43-101 Technical Report

 

prepared for SilverCrest MINES Inc.

AND SIlvErCrest METALS INC.

 

 

EFFECTIVE DATE: AUGUST 15, 2015

RELEASED DATE: AUGUST 24, 2015

  

Report Author:

James Barr, P.Geo.

Tetra Tech EBA Inc.

 

 

 

  

CRUZ DE MAYO TECHNICAL REPORT, AUGUST 2015
 

 

This page has been left blank with intention.

 

 

 

  

CRUZ DE MAYO TECHNICAL REPORT, AUGUST 2015
 

 

TABLE OF CONTENTS

 

1.0 EXECUTIVE SUMMARY 8
  1.1 Introduction 8
  1.2 Property Description and Ownership 8
  1.3 Geology and Mineralization 8
  1.4 Drilling and Exploration 8
  1.5 Mineral Resource Estimate 9
  1.6 Conclusions and Recommendations 10
         
2.0 INTRODUCTION and terms of reference 11
  2.1 Terms of Reference 11
  2.2 Report Authors 11
  2.3 Site visits 11
  2.4 Sources of Information 11
       
3.0 Reliance of otheR experts/DISCLAIMER 12
         
4.0 Property description and location 12
  4.1 Cruz de Mayo Location 12
  4.3 Environmental Liabilities and Permitting 15
         
5.0 ACCESSIBILITY, CLIMATE, LOCAL RESOURCES, INFRASTRUCUTRE, AND PHYSIOGRAPHY 15
  5.1 Accessibility 15
  5.2 Climate 16
  5.3 Local Infrastructure and Resources 16
  5.4 Physiography 17
         
6.0 HISTORY 18
  6.1 Historical Drilling and Sampling 18
  6.2 Historical Metallurgical Testwork 19
    6.2.1 Universidad de Sonora Laboratory (Sol and Adobe), 2007 20
    6.2.2 Inspectorate Laboratory, 2011 21
    6.2.3 Santa Elena Mine Laboratory, 2011 21
    6.2.4 Santa Elena Mine Laboratory, 2012 23
         
7.0 GEOLOGICAL SETTING AND MINeralization 27
  7.1 Regional Geology 27
  7.2 Local Geology 28
  7.3 Cruz de Mayo Mineralization 31
       
8.0 DEPOSIT TYPES 32

  

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9.0 EXPLORATION 32
  9.1 Previous Exploration by SilverCrest 32
  9.2 Exploration by SilverCrest Metals 33
       
10.0 DRILLInG 34
  10.1 Historical drill programs 33
  10.2 Historical Drilling Results 36
  10.3 Surveying and mapping topography 38
  10.4 Drilling by SilverCrest Metals Inc. 38
       
11.0 SAMPLE PREPARATION, ANALYSIS AND SECURITY 39
  11.1 Sample Collection Methods 39
    11.1.1 Historic Sample Collection Methods 39
    11.1.2 2005-2006, Sample Collection Methods 39
    11.1.3 2007, Sample Collection Methods 39
    11.1.4 2008, Sample Collection Methods 39
    11.1.5 2011 - 2012, Sample Collection Methods 39
  11.2 Sample Preparation and Analysis Methods 40
    11.2.1 2005 - 2006, Sample Preparation and Analysis Methods 40
    11.2.2 2007, Sample Preparation and Analysis Methods 40
    11.2.3 2008, Sample Preparation and Analysis Methods 40
    11.2.4 2011 - 2012, Sample Preparation and Analysis Methods 41
    11.2.4.1      Santa Elena Mine, Laboratory Methods 41
    11.2.4.2      ALS –Chemex, Laboratory Methods 41
  11.3 Tetra Tech EBA Statement 41
       
12.0 DATA VERIFICATION 41
  12.1 Previous Data verification 41
    12.1.1 Check Sampling 42
    12.1.2 Analytical Methods 42
    12.1.3 2006 - 2007 Twin Drill Program 44
  12.2 Tetra Tech EBA Data Verification 45
    12.2.1 Site Visit and Assay Verification 45
    12.2.2 Blank Sample Insertion 46
    12.2.3 Duplicate Sample Verification 47
    12.2.4 Analytical Method 50
    12.2.5 Verification of Drilling  Methodology 52
  12.3 Drill Hole Location Verification 53
  12.4 Tetra Tech EBA Statement on Data Verification 53
       
13.0 MINERAL PROCESSING AND METALLURGICAL TESTINGS 53
     
14.0 MINERAL RESOURCE ESTIMATES 53
  14.1 Previous Resource Estimates 53
  14.2 Basis of Current Estimate 54

  

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  14.3 Geological Model 55
  14.4 Descriptive Statistics 59
  14.5 Compositing 59
  14.6 Grade Capping 60
  14.7 Specific Gravity 62
  14.8 Geostatistical Analysis – Variographic Study 64
  14.9 Block Model 65
    14.9.1 Interpolation and Modelling Parameters 66
  14.10 Resource Estimate 67
    14.10.1 Cut-off grades 67
    14.10.2 Mineral Resource Classification 68
    14.10.3 Statement of Mineral Resources 68
  14.11 Resource Validation 73
       
15.0 MINERAL RESERVE ESTIMATES 74
     
16.0 Mining METHODS 74
     
17.0 Recovery Methods 74
     
18.0 PROJECT INFRASTRUCTURE 74
     
19.0 MARKET STUDIES AND CONTRACT 74
     
20.0 ENVIRONMANTAL STUDIES, PERMITTING AND SOCIAL OR COMMUNITY IMPACT 75
     
21.0 CAPITIAL AND OPERATING COSTS 75
     
22.0 eCONOMIC aNALYSIS 75
     
23.0 aDJACENT PROPERTIES 75
     
24.0 Other Relevant Data and information 75
     
25.0 INTERPRETATION AND CONCLUSION 75
  25.1 Key Risks and Opportunities 75
       
26.0 RECOMMENDATIONS 76
         
REFERENCES 77
   
CERTIFICATE OF QUALIFIED PERSON 78

 

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CRUZ DE MAYO TECHNICAL REPORT, AUGUST 2015
 

 

TABLES    
Table 4.1: Cruz de Mayo Concessions 15
Table 6.1: Cruz de Mayo Project Head Analysis for Composites for Bottle Roll Tests. Sol and Adobe-2007 20
Table 6.2: Cruz de Mayo Project Metal Extraction and Reagents Consumption. Sol and Adobe-2007 21
Table 6.3: Cruz de Mayo Project Metal Extraction and Reagent Consumption. Inspectorate-2011 21
Table 6.4: Cruz de Mayo Project Metal Extraction and Reagent Consumptions at Different Initial Cyanide Concentrations. SE-2011 22
Table 6.5: Cruz de Mayo Project Metal Extraction and Reagent Consumptions at Different Initial pH. SE-2011 22
Table 6.6: Cruz de Mayo Project Metal Extraction and Reagent Consumption at Different Initial Particle Size. SE-2011 23
Table 6.7: Cruz de Mayo Project Head Analysis for Bottle Roll Tests. SE-2012 24
Table 6.8: Cruz de Mayo Project Metal Extraction and Reagent Consumption for Bottle Roll Tests. SE-2012 24
Table 6.9: 2012 Cruz de Mayo Exploration Program SE Lab - Inspectorate Head Analysis for Bottle Roll Tests 26
Table 6.10: 2012 Santa Elena Exploration Program SE Lab - Inspectorate Bottle Roll Tests Summary 26
Table 6.11: Cruz de Mayo Project Crushing, Abrasion, and Bond Mill Indexes for Cruz de Mayo Composite 26
Table 10.1: Cruz de Mayo Drill Summary 33
Table 10.2: Significant Intercepts 36
Table 12.1: 2006 Check Sample Results 42
Table 12.2: Comparison of 4-Acid vs. Aqua Regia Methods 42
Table 12.3: 2006 Twin Drill Program Results 45
Table 12.4: 2007 Twin Drill Program Results 45
Table 12.5: Tetra Tech EBA Verification Sampling, Oct 2012 46
Table 12.7: Tetra Tech EBA Verification Sampling, Analytical Method Comparison, Oct 2012 48
Table 12.6: Tetra Tech EBA Verification Sampling, Analytical Method Comparison, Oct 2012 51
Table 14.1: Previous Estimate for the Cruz de Mayo Property (May 2011) 54
Table 14.2: Drill Data Used in Current Estimate 55
Table 14.3: Descriptive statistics for the raw Cruz de Mayo Drillhole Sample Data 59
Table 14.4: Cruz de Mayo Composite Samples Descriptive Statistics 60
Table 14.5: Descriptive Statistics for 2 metre Composites Capped at 300 g/t Ag. 62
Table 14.6: Distribution of Specific Gravity Measurements by Rock Type 62
Table 14.7. Search Ellipse Parameters 65
Table 14.8: Block Model Geometry 65
Table 14.9: Interpolation Results 66
Table 14.10: Input Parameters used for Silver Equivalent Calculation and Grade Cut-Off Determination 68
Table 14.11: 2015 Cruz de Mayo Mineral Resource Estimate, Effective Date: August 15, 2015 69
Table 26.1: Cruz de Mayo, Sonora, Mexico - Proposed Budget 76

 

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CRUZ DE MAYO TECHNICAL REPORT, AUGUST 2015
 

 

FIGURES    
Figure 4.1: Location of the Cruz de Mayo Project, Sonora, Mexico 13
Figure 4.2: Cruz de Mayo Min 14
Figure 5.1: Gravel road from Los Hovos to the Project Area, With Elevation Profile (Google Earth image) 16
Figure 6.1: Location of Samples Collection Areas Used for Metallurgical Testwork 19
Figure 7.1: Regional Tectonic Map of Northwestern Mexico 27
Figure 7.2: Local Geology of the Cruz de Mayo Property 30
Figure 7.3: Schematic Cross Section (~3,341,250 N) showing Geometry of Deposit, View is Looking North 32
Figure 10.1: Cruz de Mayo Drillhole Location Map 35
Figure 12.1: SilverCrest Blank Sample Insertions Assay Results 47
Figure 12.2: Duplicate Sample Verification for Silver Grades, Point Colours Denote Location of Original Sampling 49
Figure 12.3: Duplicate Sample Verification (in detail), Silver. 49
Figure 12.4: Duplicate Sample Verification, Gold. 50
Figure 12.5: Analytical Results for 4 Acid vs Aqua Regia. 51
Figure 12.6: Verification of Assay Results. 52
Figure 14.1: Mineralized Solids used to Constrain the Block Model 56
Figure 14.2: Mineralized Solids used to Constrain the Block Model 57
Figure 14.3: Mineralized Solids for East-Dipping Mineralization used to Constrain the Block Model 58
Figure 14.4: Log Histogram of Uncapped 2 metre Composite Silver Data 60
Figure 14.5: Zoom in on Histogram Distribution of 2 metre Composite Data for Silver Assay 61
Figure 14.6: Probability Plot of Uncapped 2 metre Composite Silver Data 61
Figure 14.7: Specific Gravity Results by Rock Type 63
Figure 14.8: Plot of Specific Gravity by Mineralized Solid 64
Figure 14.9: Variogram of Major Axis for Westerly Dipping Mineralized Zones. 64
Figure 14.10: Block Model Results, Oblique View Looking Northeast 67
Figure 14.11: Cross Section Showing Block Model and Open Pit Resources, Looking Northwest 70
Figure 14.12: Figure 14.12: Cross Section Showing Block Model and Underground Resources (Blocks >120gpt), Looking Northwest 71
Figure 14.13:  Grade-Tonnage Curve for Open Pit Resources 72
Figure 14.14:  Grade-Tonnage Curve for Underground Resources 72
Figure 14.15:  Swath Plot of Plan Sections 73
Figure 14.16:  Swath Plot of Vertical Sections 74
   
PHOTOS  
Photo 5.1: Northwest-Trending Ridge Host to the Cruz de Mayo Deposit (Looking Northwest) 17
Photo 6.1: Portal of Old Underground Excavation at Cruz de Mayo. 19

 

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Acronyms & Abbreviations

 

Ag silver
AgEq silver equivalent
ASL above sea level
Au gold
BC British Columbia
BRT bottle roll test
CIM Canadian Institute for Mining, Metallurgy and Petroleum
DTM digital terrain model
EBA Tetra Tech EBA Inc.
First Majestic First Majestic Silver Corp
ID2 inverse distance squared
P.Eng. Professional Engineer
P.Geo. Professional Geoscientist
Pb lead
QA/QC quality assurance and quality control
RC reverse circulation
S.A. de C.V. Sociedad Anónima de Capital Variable
SilverCrest SilverCrest Mines Inc.
SilverCrest Metals SilverCrest Metals Inc.

  

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CRUZ DE MAYO TECHNICAL REPORT, AUGUST 2015
 

 

Units of Measurement and Conversions

 

% percent
g/t grams per tonne
gpt grams per tonne
Ha hectare (10,000 square meters)
Km kilometre
M million
m metre
mm millimetre
oz ounce (troy)
ppm parts per million
% difference
   
Contained oz

 

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CRUZ DE MAYO TECHNICAL REPORT, AUGUST 2015
 

 

1.0EXECUTIVE SUMMARY

 

1.1Introduction

 

Tetra Tech EBA Inc. was contracted by SilverCrest Mines Inc. (SilverCrest) and SilverCrest Metals Inc. (SilverCrest Metals) to complete a Mineral Resource Estimate for their Cruz de Mayo Project in Sonora, Mexico. This report provides a summary of the work that has been completed on the Project since the timing of the last Technical Report that was filed on SEDAR in 2011, including details of the current Mineral Resource Estimate.

 

1.2Property Description and Ownership

 

The Cruz de Mayo property is located in the State of Sonora, Mexico, approximately 22 km northwest of the town of Cumpas and 163 km north east of Hermosillo. The project is located 35 km directly northeast, and approximately 150 km total distance when travelled by paved road, of the Santa Elena mine.

 

The Property consists of two mineral concessions, Cruz de Mayo 2 and El Gueriguito, combining for a total area of 452 hectares. The property is to be transferred to SilverCrest Metals Inc. as part of the friendly acquisition of SilverCrest by First Majestic Silver Corp (First Majestic) as announced on July 27th, 2015. Transfer of property rights to SilverCrest Metals is currently underway. The shares of SilverCrest Metals are to be distributed to the shareholders of SilverCrest as a part of the First Majestic Transaction, resulting in SilverCrest Metals becoming the owner of the property as a separate, standalone company. When completed, SilverCrest Metals will hold a 100% ownership of the Cruz de Mayo 2 and El Gueriguito concessions through its wholly-owned subsidiary, Minera Llamarada S.A de C.V. The El Gueriguito concession is subject to a 2.5% NSR, to a maximum of $1,000,000.

 

1.3Geology and Mineralization

 

The Cruz de Mayo Project is located in the north-central part of the Sierra Madre Occidental, on the western flank of the Moctezuma River valley. The geology of the property consists of a sequence of felsic to intermediate volcanic and volcaniclastic rocks that have been thrust over andesite rocks in the footwall. The thrust sequence gives rise to the northwest trending ridge that is host to the deposit.

 

Mineralization is largely restricted to a series of discontinuous quartz veins that occupy the broad deformation zone created by the thrust fault. Cruz de Mayo is categorized as a low-sulphidation, epithermal silver deposit with minor gold, copper, and zinc. Mineralization occurs in banded quartz veins, stockwork and breccia and is commonly associated with silver sulfosalts, fluorite, calcite and minor sulphides. Iron oxides, including limonite, jarosite, goethite and hematite are also commonly associated with mineralization.

 

It is postulated that the structural deformation associated with the thrust fault provided a conduit system for mineralizing fluids, and was further enhanced by an increase in porosity and heterogeneity in the rhyolitic and volcaniclastic rocks.

 

1.4Drilling and Exploration

 

The property has been the focus of small-scale exploration and mining efforts for over one hundred years. Records and local sources indicate that mining took place on the property prior to the Mexican Revolution in 1910, and on and off between 1945 and 1970. Unofficial reports suggest that approximately 5,000 tonnes of ore mined from the Cruz de Mayo deposit were shipped to the nearby La Caridad smelter for flux at a grade of 0.5 g/t gold and 150 g/t silver. No official records exist of this and no old tailings remain onsite.

 

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CRUZ DE MAYO TECHNICAL REPORT, AUGUST 2015
 

 

Previously, SilverCrest carried out a number of exploration programs since acquiring the property in 2005, including over 15,000 metres of reverse circulation and diamond drilling. SilverCrest Metals has recently completed acquisition and assessment review of the exploration potential in the Concessions. The results of this work have been reviewed in detail as part of the resource update.

 

Four separate metallurgical test programs have been completed between 2007 and 2012 by SilverCrest. The results of these test programs indicate that the mineralized samples leached favourably with cyanide, however, the results pertaining to metal recovery are inconclusive at this stage. Silver recoveries ranged from 25% to 91% and gold recoveries ranged from 51% to 95%, depending on test work parameters and conditions.

 

1.5Mineral Resource Estimate

 

Tetra Tech EBA updated the resource estimate for Cruz de Mayo using Dessault Systemes Geovia GEMS v. 6.6 modelling software. The estimate includes drilling results up to the end of 2012. The Effective Date for this work is August 15, 2015.

 

For the purpose of defining a suitable grade cut-off, the resource estimate is contemplated to support an on-site coarse crushing heap leach operation with both open pit and underground resource potential. The project was previously contemplated (EBA, 2011) as a remote open pit operation feeding material to the newly expanded Santa Elena Mine heap leach and processing plant, however, this is no longer considered for the project.

 

The updated resource estimate includes an additional 74 diamond drill and reverse circulation holes (9,304.8 metres), and a total of 4,764 samples which have been collected across the property since the previous Technical Report. Drilling was completed in mid-2012.

 

The resource was constrained within a geological model and within a 15 g/t silver mineralized 3D wireframe. A block size of 10 m x 10 m x 5 m was chosen for the model, and grades interpolated into the blocks using the inverse distance squared methodology. Silver grades are capped at 700 g/t and gold grades are capped at 1 g/t.

 

The results of the 2015 resource estimate are provided in the table below:

 

INDICATED
Target  AgEq Cut-
off gpt
SG Tonnage Ag
gpt
Au
gpt
AgEq
gpt
Contained
Ag oz
Contained
Au oz
Contained
AgEq oz
Open Pit 45 2.544 396,000 114 0.17 131 1,457,000 2,000 1,663,000
Underground 120 2.544 396,000 170 0.25 193 2,173,000 3,000 2,466,000
Total Indicated   2.544 793,000 142 0.21 162 3,630,000 5,000 4,129,000

 

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INFERRED
Target  AgEq Cut-
off gpt
SG Tonnage Ag
gpt
Au
gpt
AgEq
gpt
Contained
Ag oz
Contained
Au oz
Contained
AgEq oz
Open Pit 45 2.544 76,000 77 0.29 105 189,000 1,000 257,000
Underground 120 2.544 249,000 145 0.24 167 1,157,000 2,000 1,336,000
Total Inferred   2.544 325,000 129 0.25 152 1,346,000 3,000 1,592,000

Notes:

- Mineral resources are classified by Tetra Tech EBA and conform to NI 43-101 and CIM definitions for resources. Mineral Resources have been estimated from geological evidence and limited sampling;

- Mineral resources are not mineral reserves and do not have demonstrated economic viability. In addition, inferred mineral resources are highly speculative and have a high degree of uncertainty. It cannot be assumed that any part of the inferred resources will be upgraded to a higher category with additional work;

- AgEq calculations incorporate metal prices of US$ 16/oz Ag and US$ 1,100/oz Au, metal recoveries of 55% Ag and 75% Au for a Ag:Au metal value ratio of 93.75;

- Tonnage and contained ounces have been rounded to the nearest thousand; and

- Mineral Resources for Cruz de Mayo are reported using a base case of 45 gpt AgEq cut-off for open pit resources and 120 gpt AgEq for underground resources. Cut-off grades were estimated from metal prices and recoveries used for AgEq calculation and mining costs from similar mining projects in Mexico.

 

1.6Conclusions and Recommendations

 

The Cruz de Mayo property is host to a near-surface, low-sulphidation epithermal silver deposit, located in Sonora, Mexico. Additional drilling on the property warranted a re-examination of the previous Mineral Resource Estimate reported in 2007 and 2011, which is part of this 43-101 report. The estimate completed by Tetra Tech EBA show a significant upgrade in resources from the inferred to the indicated categories, while reducing the overall tonnage from previous estimate.

 

The following recommendations are suggested for further work at Cruz de Mayo:

 

§Evaluation of nearby potential acquisitions for expansion of resource.

 

§Carry out more metallurgical work to define optimal recoveries.

 

§Resampling of twinned hole programs in areas with assays obtained exclusively with 4 acid digest.

 

§Increase drillhole density in areas with potential to host high-grade shoots.

 

§Conduct regional exploration drilling for expansion of existing resources and to test for additional mineral potential in the area.

 

The following budget is suggested:

 

Recommendation Future Work Estimated Cost
Phase I (12 months)    
Land Acquisition Acquire additional concessions adjacent property  $                 20,000
Drilling Drill new target area for estimated 1,200m of drilling  $               180,000
Analysis Geochemical analysis of drill samples  $                 20,000
Total cost Phase I   $             220,000
     
Phase II    
Additional Drilling Infill drilling program of estimated 5,000m  $               750,000
Analysis Geochemical analysis of drill samples  $                 75,000
Metallurgical Test Work Amenability to leaching  $                 50,000
Resource Estimation Modeling and analysis  $                 50,000
Total cost Phase II   $             925,000
*Based on results and success of Phase I  

 

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2.0INTRODUCTION and terms of reference

 

2.1Terms of Reference

 

Tetra Tech EBA was contracted by SilverCrest Metals Inc. (SilverCrest Metals) to complete a Mineral Resource Estimate for their Cruz de Mayo property (the Property) in Sonora Mexico. SilverCrest Metals is a separate entity to SilverCrest Mines Inc. (SilverCrest), as a result of the friendly acquisition of SilverCrest by First Majestic Silver Corp. (First Majestic) as announced on July 27th 2015.

 

This technical report has been prepared in accordance with National Instrument 43-101 (NI 43-101) and Form 43-101F1 (the Form). It provides the results of the resource estimate as well as additional exploration information acquired since the last technical report was filed in 2011. No mineral reserves have been established on the Property at this time.

 

The previous Technical Report (EBA, 2011) contemplated Cruz de Mayo as a satellite deposit which would feed material to the Santa Elena processing plant. The property is now a standalone project, and as such the project has been rescoped from the previous conceptual project.

 

2.2Report Authors

 

This report has been completed by the following Independent Qualified Professionals:

 

§James Barr, P.Geo., Senior Geologist, Tetra Tech EBA.

 

2.3Site visits

 

James Barr, P.Geo. conducted site visits to the Cruz de Mayo property on two separate occasions between May 2011 and May 2012, and to the Cruz de Mayo core storage facility on October 15-16, 2012. Mr. Barr’s time was spent collecting verification samples and reviewing drill core, local geology, site layout and the geological databases relating to the property that is the subject of this report. The site visits were conducted under SilverCrest, the previous operators of the property. It is not believed that any significant work has been conducted on the property since this time and it is assumed that property conditions remain in similar condition.

 

2.4Sources of Information

 

The information, opinions, estimates, and conclusions contained herein are based on the following sources of information:

 

§Information available as of the effective date of this report.

 

§Assumptions, conditions, and qualifications as set forth in this report.

 

§Data, reports, and other information supplied by SilverCrest and other third party sources.

 

§Technical report covering the Resource for the Cruz de Mayo Property, Sonora, Mexico (December 2007) by SWRPA.

 

§Technical report covering the Pre-Feasibility Study for the Santa Elena Project, Sonora, Mexico (August 2008) by Mr. Scott Wilson, Roscoe Postle and Associates (SWRPA).Technical report covering the Mineral Reserve Update for the Santa Elena Property and Preliminary Economic Assessment for Cruz de Mayo, Sonora, Mexico (May 2011) by Tetra Tech EBA.

 

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3.0Reliance of otheR experts/DISCLAIMER

 

Title opinion for ownership of mineral concessions has been provided by Mr. Abraham Urias, Practitioner of Foreign (Mexico) Law, employed by Urias Romero y Asociados, S.C., Mazatlan, Sinaloa, Mexico.

 

4.0Property description and location

 

4.1Cruz de Mayo Location

 

The Cruz de Mayo property is located in the State of Sonora, Mexico, approximately 22 km northwest of the town of Cumpas and 163 km north east of Hermosillo (Figure 4.1). The co-ordinates for the site are 30° 11´ N and 109° 51´ W. The project is located 35 km directly northeast of First Majestic Silver Corp’s Santa Elena mine, but due the mountainous terrain, the distance increases to approximately 150 km when travelled by road.

 

4.2Cruz de Mayo Mineral Concessions

 

The Project consists of two mineral concessions, Cruz de Mayo 2 and El Gueriguito, totalling a combined total of 452 hectares. The concessions have been surveyed by a registered land surveyor, and include the areas shown in Figure 4.2.

 

Ownership of the concessions is currently registered with the Mexico mines registry under Minera Looker, S.A. de C.V. (Cruz de Mayo 2) and Nusantara S.A. de C.V (El Gueriguito). Currently, title is being transferred to Minera Llamarada S.A de C.V (Llamarada) (Table 4.1). Llamarada is a wholly-owned Mexican subsidiary of SilverCrest Metals Inc., which on July 27th, 2015, pursuant to the announced acquisition of SilverCrest by First Majestic, purchased a 100% interest in the Cruz de Mayo 2 and El Gueriguito concessions. The transaction was in process at the time of this report, when complete SilverCrest Metals will have 100% ownership of the concessions. Legal opinion relied upon for this report was provided by SilverCrest Metals and seen by Tetra Tech EBA. No independent verification of these legal matters has been conducted by Tetra Tech EBA.

 

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Figure 4.1 Location of the Cruz de Mayo Project, Sonora, Mexico

 

 

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Figure 4.2: Cruz de Mayo Mineral Tenure

 

 

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CRUZ DE MAYO TECHNICAL REPORT, AUGUST 2015
 

 

Table 4.1: Cruz de Mayo Concessions

 

Concession number Inception date Expiry date Concession
name
Registered
Owner
Size
224223 April 2005 April 2055 Cruz de Mayo 2 Minera Llamarada 434 ha
165535 October 1979 October 2029 El Gueriguito Minera Llamarada 18 ha

 

No obligations exist on the Cruz de Mayo 2 concessions; however, the El Gueriguito concession is subject to a 2.5% net smelter return in favour of Minera Looker, to a maximum of $1,000,000. SilverCrest Metals has the right to make early payment with no additional consideration.

 

4.3Environmental Liabilities and Permitting

 

The Cruz de Mayo Project requires exploration permits to continue with recommended drilling. Such permits will need to be in place before drilling begins.

 

The local economy of Sonora has traditionally been based on mining and agriculture, and it is considered a mining-friendly state. As such, excessive delays in permitting or unforeseen social issues are not anticipated.

 

No environmental liabilities are anticipated. Minor old workings and small waste dumps currently exist on the property.

 

5.0ACCESSIBILITY, CLIMATE, LOCAL RESOURCES, INFRASTRUCUTRE, AND PHYSIOGRAPHY

 

5.1Accessibility

 

The Cruz de Mayo Property is accessible year round by a network of paved and gravel roads. Paved road is available from Hermosillo to Ures via highway 14, and continuing along route 17 to the community of Los Hovos immediately north of the town of Cumpas (Figure 4.1). From Los Hovos, the property can be accessed via a network of gravel and dirt roads that travels northwest up into the Sierra Madre for approximately 10 km (Figure 5.1). This road can currently be safely navigated with a ½ tonne truck, but it is anticipated that this road will need significant upgrades prior to any large equipment haulage from site in order to connect with the local highway grid. In addition, agreements with local property owners will be required and certain sections may need to be built up in order to protect from potential flooding during the rainy season.

 

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Figure 5.1: Gravel Road from Los Hovos to the Project Area, with Elevation Profile (Google Earth image)

 

 

5.2Climate

 

The Cruz de Mayo Property is located within the climatic region of the Sonoran desert. The climate is generally semi-desert with an average rainfall of 400 mm per year, the majority of which falls between July and September. Limited information is available for the site, but data for the town of Moctezuma 46 km to the southeast is assumed to be broadly comparable. The average annual temperature reported for Moctezuma is 20.7 ° C, with an average high of 39° C in July and an average low of 2° C in January. The highest recorded temperature is 47° C and the lowest is -10° C. The average number of rainy days is 36 per year.

 

5.3Local Infrastructure and Resources

 

There is currently no electrical power or water supply on site.

 

Water can be sourced from a surface water reservoir located 24 km by road from the site; however, there is the possibility that groundwater water could be found closer to site. In addition, a small water reservoir is located approximately 3 km northwest of the property, currently being used for agricultural purposes. Drilling and groundwater tests have not been performed on the property. The main mineralized zone is anticipated to be well above the groundwater level as indicated by the dry condition of historical adits located on the property, as described in Section 6.

 

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The Property has several derelict buildings on site from previous operations that have historically been used for diamond drill core and reverse circulation (RC) drill chip sample storage. SilverCrest currently maintains a secure sample storage and processing facility off site in the nearby town of Cumpas.

 

Mining supplies are available from Cananea, North of Cruz de Mayo, and from Hermosillo, to the south west of the property. Tucson, Arizona is also located about 4 hours north of the Property. Northern Mexico, southern Arizona and Mexico in general are home to some the largest mines in North America, as such skilled and experienced workers are readily available.

 

5.4Physiography

 

The Cruz de Mayo Project is located in the north-central part of the Sierra Madre Occidental, on the western flank of the Moctezuma River valley. Elevations in the area increase from 800 m ASL on the valley floor to approximately 1,030 m ASL at site. Elevations continue to increase to the west, peaking at approximately 1,600 m ASL in the ranges located 20 km from the property.

 

The topography in the area generally comprises a series of northwest trending ridges separated by mainly dry drainage valleys. Typical ridge heights range from 50 to 200 metres above the valley floors. The Moctezuma valley is irrigated and generally used for ranching and agriculture.

 

Vegetation during the dry season is characteristically scarce, as is observed in most desert climates. During the wet season, an abundance of trees, grasses, and various blooming cactus are present in drainage areas. Photo 5.1 illustrates the topography of the project area and typical vegetation during the summer months. Also displayed in the photo are the numerous drill pad accesses on the property.

 

Photo 5.1: Northwest-Trending Ridge Host to the Cruz de Mayo Deposit (Looking Northwest).

 

  

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6.0HISTORY

 

This section has been adapted from the two previous technical reports that were filed by SilverCrest Mine Inc. for the Cruz de Mayo property in 2007 and 2011. Fier and Wallis (2007) originally conducted much of the research into historical work and production on the property through archived company and government records. Tetra Tech EBA is not able to independently verify the reported historical grades or production values. The numbers reported here are provided for historical context and identify the exploration merit of the property only, and should not be relied upon. The reader is encouraged to examine the results of recent exploration and drill programs carried out by SilverCrest, as summarized in the current and previous NI 43-101 reports, in order to gain an accurate understanding of mineralization identified on the property.

 

During the late 19th to early 20th century, an unnamed company operated the Cruz de Mayo mine until it was abandoned at the onset of national instability due to the Mexican Revolution of 1910. During this period, underground development work was completed, including four adits (Uno, Dos, Tres, and Cuatro) totalling approximately 600 m of excavation (Photo 6.1). All existing adits except adit Dos are caved and inaccessible – however, cavity surveys were completed by SilverCrest in adit Dos and Uno (prior to caving).

 

Verbal accounts from local sources indicate that some small scale mining was undertaken on the Cruz de Mayo property between 1945 and 1970. Unofficial reports suggest that approximately 5,000 tonnes of ore mined from the Cruz de May Deposit were shipped directly to the nearby La Caridad smelter for flux at a grade of 0.5 g/t gold and 150 g/t silver. No official records exist of this.

 

Tetra Tech EBA has visited and conducted some geotechnical mapping of the level Dos excavation and is of the opinion that the historical excavations are volumetrically insignificant; however, the limited mapping and survey data previously acquired by SilverCrest for the accessible adits was factored into the current mineral resource estimation for the sake of completeness. Based on this information, Tetra Tech EBA estimates that at least 50,000 m3 was excavated from the site during historical operations from adits Uno and Dos.

 

6.1Historical Drilling and Sampling

 

During the 1970’s and 1980’s, Tormex Development Inc. (Tormex) of Toronto, Canada, drilled 16 core holes on the property in two separate programs. The first program consisted of five holes totalling 419.7 m and the second consisted of 11 holes totalling 452.2 m. Detailed core logs are available for the first five holes, complete with cross-sections. Composite assay results are available for the remaining 11 holes. Due to the data verification issues identified in s. 12.0, Tetra Tech EBA has not incorporated these results into the current resource estimate (refer to Section 12.0).

 

Underground channel sampling was completed by Minera Looker in the early 1990’s and consisted of approximately 60 samples in Adit Dos. The average grade of these samples was estimated by Minera Looker at 0.45 g/t gold and 159 g/t silver. Sampling locations have not been verified at this time and have not been used in the current study. The property remained dormant from the early 1990’s until 2005.

 

In April 2005, SilverCrest purchased the Cruz de Mayo 2 concession, which covers the Cruz de Mayo Deposit, for approximately $10,000 from Mineral Cascabel, S.A. de C.V., a Mexican geological consulting company. SilverCrest conducted exploration work on the property continuously from 2005 to 2012, as detailed in Section 9.0 and 10.0 of this report.

 

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Photo 6.1: Portal of Old Underground Excavation at Cruz de Mayo

 

 

6.2Historical Metallurgical Testwork

 

Four key metallurgical test programs have been completed for the Cruz de Mayo property. Two of these programs (2007, 2011) were completed at external laboratories and two of these (2011, 2012) were conducted internally under direction of the previous operator, SilverCrest Mines Inc. Samples were extracted from exposed mineralization within the Media Luna showing and within the Nivel 2.5 excavation (one of adits Uno or Dos), as shown in Figure 6.1.

 

Generally, the programs were designed to test recoveries at the Santa Elena mine mill. The program results are summarized and have not been incorporated into the current report due to the variability and inconclusive nature of the results with respect to a potential heap leach operation. These should not be relied upon until further metallurgical characterization is completed.

 

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Figure 6.1: Location of Metallurgical Testwork Sample Collection Areas

 

 

6.2.1Universidad de Sonora Laboratory (Sol and Adobe), 2007

 

In May, 2007, six samples were collected by SilverCrest from RC coarse rejects from storage at ALS Chemex in Hermosillo. Sol & Adobe Ingeniería completed initial bottle roll tests in the metallurgical laboratories at the Universidad de Sonora, Hermosillo. The average head analyses of the composites are presented in Table 6.1.

 

Table 6.1: Cruz de Mayo Project Head Analysis for Composites for Bottle Roll Tests, Sol and Adobe 2007

 

SAMPLE No. Au Ag
g/t g/t
1CM-1 0.325 214.25
 2CM-2 0.260 53.5
3CM-3 0.305 203
4CM-4 0.325 275
5CM-5 0.335 55.5
6CM-6 0.300 125.5

 

The results showed consumption of lime above 2 kg/tonne, and cyanide consumption, of the order of 1 kg/tonne. The most interesting feature was the strong variance on the silver extraction ranging from 25% up to 80%. The results are summarized in Table 6.2.

 

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Table 6.2: Cruz de Mayo Project Metal Extraction and Reagents Consumption, Sol and Adobe 2007

 

Sample Id Initial Cyanide
Concentration
Extraction Percentage Reagent Consumption
  g/L

Au

%

Ag

%

Cyanide
Consumption
Lime
Consumption
1CM-1 1.0 94.46 66.16 0.88 5
2CM-2 89.10 59.91 0.96 5
3CM-3 88.15 59.39 1.84 5
4CM-4 93.04 80.35 0.56 5.5
5CM-5 83.24 36.59 0.93 4
6CM-6 81.89 25.72 1.06 4
5CM-5R 84.00 47.97 1.13 2.3
6CM-6R 84.02 29.62 1.38 2.3

 

6.2.2Inspectorate Laboratory, 2011

 

A single composite was sent to Inspectorate in Vancouver, BC, to do one bottle roll test (BRT) as part of a metallurgical test program for expansion of the Santa Elena mine under direction of SilverCrest. The test was done at 3 g/L initial cyanide concentration, 100 mm initial particle size and pH 10. Solution replacement with fresh solution after 10 hours of leaching was done to observe any effect on silver recovery. Silver recovery was 54% after 72 hours. Cyanide consumption was 2.76 kg/tonne whereas lime consumption remained at 0.3 kg/tonne as shown in Table 6.3.

 

Table 6.3: Cruz de Mayo Project Metal Extraction and Reagent Consumption, SilverCrest 2011 

 

Sample

Id

Initial Cyanide
Concentration
Extraction Percentage Reagent Consumption
G/L

Au

%

Ag

%

Cu

%

Cyanide
Consumption

Kg/T

Lime
Consumption

Kg/T

CM Composite 3 51.2 54.1 NR 2.76 0.3

 

6.2.3Santa Elena Mine Laboratory, 2011

 

At the Santa Elena mine laboratory, BRT tests were conducted on two composite samples identified as (1) Media Luna and (2) Nivel 2.5, at different conditions of initial cyanide concentration, pH and particle size.

 

Table 6.4 provides the results obtained for the two samples at different initial cyanide concentration. It is shown that the higher the concentration of cyanide the higher the extraction of gold and silver. However, above 1,500 ppm such effect appears to be less pronounced. For all the other tests reported for these two samples an initial cyanide concentration of 1,500 ppm was chosen.

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Table 6.4: Cruz de Mayo Project Metal Extraction and Reagent Consumptions at Different Initial Cyanide Concentrations, SilverCrest 2011

 

Sample

Id

Initial Cyanide
Concentration
Extraction Percentage Reagent Consumption
G/L

Au

%

Ag

%

Cu

%

Cyanide
Consumption

Kg/Ton

Lime
Consumption

Kg/Ton

Media Luna 0.25 85.93 60.12 16.47 0.96 2.30
0.50 88.13 73.65 16.48 1.20 1.80
1.0 88.32 86.98 18.36 2.38 1.20
1.5 92.15 91.57 19.36 2.70 0.80
2.0 92.33 89.27 19.05 2.46 0.80
Nivel 2.5 0.25 79.98 76.81 20.33 0.52 2.20
0.50 80.58 81.85 21.78 0.58 1.60
1.0 81.86 83.47 21.56 1.52 1.40
1.5 84.54 85.30 21.84 1.46 1.00
2.0 84.80 87.34 23.07 2.68 1.00

 

The effect of initial pH is summarized in Table 6.5.

 

Table 6.5: Cruz de Mayo Project Metal Extraction and Reagent Consumptions at Different Initial pH, SilverCrest 2011

 

Sample

Id

Initial pH Extraction Percentage Reagent Consumption

Au

%

Ag

%

Cu

%

Cyanide
Consumption

Kg/Ton

Lime
Consumption

Kg/ton

Media Luna 9.75 95.26 91.35 17.10 2.24 0.10
10.00 93.77 91.11 15.78 2.10 0.15
10.50 93.82 88.64 15.07 1.62 1.30
11.00 92.24 88.67 13.21 1.16 1.90
Nivel 2.5 9.75 90.57 88.76 21.48 2.42 0.10
10.00 89.31 87.70 23.67 1.90 0.15
10.50 92.50 84.22 19.33 1.16 1.70
11.00 89.67 84.12 19.44 0.86 2.80

 

As pH is decreased, gold and silver extractions are increased. However, it should be recognized that in reality it is anticipated that other metals will also deport into solution as pH decreases.

 

The BRTs for different cyanide concentrations followed the standard procedure used in the Santa Elena laboratory, where the sample is ground in a pulverizer until 100% passes 150# (approximately 100 µm). Pulverizing was carried out for a short period of time (less than 1 minute) in order to simulate the ball milling. All the other bottle roll tests were done following this procedure.

 

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The effect of particle size is presented in Table 6.6. It is observed that the smaller the particle size the higher the gold and silver extraction. The difference between the Inspectorate results and all the others tests cannot be explained just on the particle size difference, nor can be attributed to the way grinding was done.

 

Table 6.6: Cruz de Mayo Project Metal Extraction and Reagent Consumption at Different Initial Particle Size, SilverCrest 2011

 

SAMPLE

ID

Initial Particle

Size

EXTRACTION PERCENTAGE REAGENT CONSUMPTION

Au

%

Ag

%

Cu

%

Cyanide
Consumption

Kg/ton

Lime
Consumption

Kg/ton

Media Luna -1/4” 63.97 39.78 7.36 1.10 0.15
-10# 83.37 42.17 8.79 1.00 0.15
-150# 88.29 85.45 10.34 1.26 0.15
-200# 92.15 91.57 19.36 2.70 0.80
 
Nivel 2.5 -1/4” 58.52 25.84 11.19 1.50 0.15
-10# 61.29 23.22 11.63 1.84 0.15
-150# 80.96 69.84 15.09 1.62 0.20
-200# 84.54 85.30 21.84 1.46 1.00
Inspectorate -100 (mm) 51.2 54.0 NR 2.76 0.30

 

6.2.4Santa Elena Mine Laboratory, 2012

 

BRTs were completed at the Santa Elena mine laboratory on drill core rejects from the 2012 exploration program from Cruz de Mayo. The conditions for the tests were:

 

§33% solids,

 

§pH 10,

 

§Particle size, 100 mm,

 

§Initial cyanide concentration: 1.5 g/L,

 

§No solution replacement, and

 

§Total leaching time: 72 hours.

 

Twenty composites were prepared from different core samples covering two silver grade ranges of below 60 g/t and above 60 g/t. The head grade analyses are presented in Table 6.7 In some samples, copper was present in quantities that might affect the cyanide leaching of precious metals although no apparent correlation was observed.

 

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Table 6.7: Cruz de Mayo Project Head Analysis for Bottle Roll Tests, SilverCrest 2012

 

Silver Zone Sample ID Head Assay

Au

G/T

Ag

G/T

Cu

%

High Grade Silver

>60 g/t

BRT-CM-CPS 1 0.48 547.5 0.106
BRT-CM-CPS 2 1.12 508.5 0.04
BRT-CM-CPS 3 0.47 167.6 0.146
BRT-CM-CPS 4 0.22 125.3 0.018
BRT-CM-CPS 5 0.17 118.0 0.017
BRT-CM-CPS 6 0.44 250.9 0.052
BRT-CM-CPS 7 4.37 2718.0 0.187
BRT-CM-CPS 8 2.92 2644.0 0.144
BRT-CM-CPS 9 0.16 113.5 0.026
BRT-CM-CPS 10 0.10 59.9 0.007
 

Low Grade Silver

<60 g/t

BRT-CM-CPS 15 0.07 36.1 0.01
BRT-CM-CPS 16 0.22 53.7 0.009
BRT-CM-CPS 17 0.03 12.7 0.004
BRT-CM-CPS 18 0.07 35.6 0.007
BRT-CM-CPS 19 0.05 46.1 0.016
BRT-CM-CPS 20 0.04 20.9 0.009
BRT-CM-CPS 21 0.03 50.0 0.007
BRT-CM-CPS 22 0.05 21.7 0.003
BRT-CM-CPS 23 0.17 46.1 0.009
BRT-CM-CPS 24 0.04 20.5 0.004

 

The results of the BRTs are shown in Table 6.8.

 

Table 6.8: Cruz de Mayo Project Metal Extraction and Reagent Consumption for Bottle Roll Tests, SilverCrest 2012

 

Silver Zone Sample Id Extraction Percentage Regent Consumption

Au

%

Ag

%

Cu

%

Cyanide
Consumption

Kg/t

Lime

Consumption

Kg/t

Silver Grade >60g/t BRT-CM-CPS 1 86.5 91.1 23.5 2.22 1.00
BRT-CM-CPS 2 93.8 90.3 15.6 1.42 1.20
BRT-CM-CPS 3 79.9 64.4 8.6 1.44 1.15
BRT-CM-CPS 4 93.0 70.4 22.2 1.32 1.15
BRT-CM-CPS 5 78.7 88.7 15.6 0.82 1.20
BRT-CM-CPS 6 89.0 83.1 14.9 1.38 1.10
BRT-CM-CPS 7 87.4 93.9 31.2 5.42 1.00
BRT-CM-CPS 8 89.6 93.8 30.4 3.80 1.05
  BRT-CM-CPS 9 82.0 73.6 10.6 0.58 1.00
  BRT-CM-CPS 10 82.8 74.2 23.8 0.88 1.25

 

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Silver Zone Sample Id Extraction Percentage Regent Consumption

Au

%

Ag

%

Cu

%

Cyanide
Consumption

Kg/t

Lime
Consumption

Kg/t

Silver Grade

<60 g/t

BRT-CM-CPS 15   56.8 6.1 0.46 2.40
BRT-CM-CPS 16   53.8 4.0 0.46 2.00
BRT-CM-CPS 17   35.5 4.0 0.52 2.00
BRT-CM-CPS 18   71.1 9.4 0.52 2.90
BRT-CM-CPS 19   49.5 7.8 0.98 2.70
BRT-CM-CPS 20   57.1 10.2 0.96 2.50
BRT-CM-CPS 21   86.2 50.9 1.34 3.40
BRT-CM-CPS 22   48.2 10.8 0.96 2.95
BRT-CM-CPS 23   55.1 6.1 1.04 2.45
BRT-CM-CPS 24   54.4 15.8 1.00 3.40

 

Solution Replacement after 10 hour Leaching Evaluation

 

Based on the previous project concept, three of the 20 composites previously analyzed from the Cruz de Mayo 2012 exploration program were selected to be evaluated by BRT specifically at the SE Laboratory under the following conditions:

 

§40% solids,

 

§pH > 10,

 

§Particle size, 100 mm (80% passing 150#),

 

§Initial cyanide concentration, 1.0 g/L,

 

§Solution replacement after 10 h leaching, and

 

§Total leaching time, 72 hours.

 

The composites were sent to the Inspectorate laboratory in Vancouver, BC, to duplicate tests and verify results under the same conditions as the ones used in Santa Elena Lab. The three composites cover what was considered to be low, middle and high silver grade ores. Each of the three composites were evaluated under the conventional or standard BRT procedure and in additional, the middle grade composite was also analyzed with the solution replacement method (CPS 2R), making a total of four tests for comparison with previous results.

 

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Table 6.9: 2012 Cruz de Mayo Exploration Program SE Lab - Inspectorate Head Analysis for Bottle Roll Tests

 

Project Sample SE Lab - Head Assay Inspectorate - Head Assay
Au Ag Cu Au Ag Cu
g/t g/t (%) g/t g/t (%)
Cruz de Mayo CM – CPS 2 1.06 573.0 0.040 1.47 582.6 0.041
CM – CPS 6 0.37 252.0 0.048 0.32 252.1 0.045
CM – CPS 11 2.4 2083.0 0.183 3.61 3337.7 0.165
  SE LAB - Calculated Head INSPECTORATE - Calculated Head
Cruz de Mayo CM – CPS 2 1.17 594.5 0.040  1.53 577.6
CM – CPS 2R 0.94 552.4 0.043 1.83 597.2
CM – CPS 6 0.37 249.0 0.049 0.53 299.4
CM – CPS 11 1.99 2133.1  0.183 4.25 3469.5

 

Table 6.10: 2012 Santa Elena Exploration Program Santa Elena Mine Lab - Inspectorate Bottle Roll Tests Summary

 

Sample ID LAB Grind P80 µm Pulp Density (%) pH NaCN g/L Recovery Residue Consumption
(kg/t)
Au (%) Ag (%) Au (g/t) Ag (g/t) NaCN Lime
CM - CPS 6 SE 113 40 10.8 1.0 84.7 81.8 0.06 45.0 5.31 1.60
INSP 10.5 94.3 64.7 0.03 105.8 1.46 0.40
CM - CPS 2 SE 122 40 10.8 1.0 87.3 87.0 0.15 78.0 0.98 1.40
INSP 10.5 90.8 67.2 0.14 189.7 1.54 0.45
CM - CPS 2 'R' SE 122 40 11 1.0 79.9 82.9 0.19 95.0 1.16 1.60
INSP 10.5 92.9 69.7 0.13 180.9 1.76 0.45
CM - CPS 11 SE 113 40 10.8 1.0 85.6 60.1 0.29 852.0 8.57 1.40
INSP 10.5 93.4 63.0 0.28 1282.3 3.72 0.55

 

Other Metallurgical Studies

 

SilverCrest carried out additional mineralogical analysis at the Inspectorate lab using a composite from the Media Luna location. The results indicate that silver is present mainly as argentite (Ag2S) and pyrargyrite-proustite (Ag2Sb, AsS3) embedded in a silica matrix. Within silica native silver and electrum were also observed. The study also indicated that the high dense silica matrix would require intense grinding.

 

Hazen Research obtained the Bond crusher impact work index (CWi) and Bond Abrasion Index (Ai) shown in Table 6.11. The Bond Mill index (Wi) reported by Inspectorate is included.

 

Table 6.11: Cruz de Mayo Project Crushing, Abrasion and Bond Mill Indexes for Cruz de Mayo Composite

 

Crushing, Abrasion and Bond Mill Indexes for Cruz de Mayo Composite.
Sample CWi, kWh/t Ai, g Wi, kWh/t
CM Composite 13.59 1.1267 17.6

 

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7.0GEOLOGICAL SETTING AND MINeralization

 

7.1Regional Geology

 

Much of the geology of Northern Mexico can be attributed to the volcanism related to the east-directed subduction of the Farallon Plate beneath the North American Plate that began with the tectonic rifting of the supercontinent Pangea ~200 Ma ago (Rogers 2004). Delgado-Granados et. al., (2000) proposed that the subduction of the Farallon Plate occurred at a relatively shallow angle, resulting in continental uplift across northern Mexico and the development of accretionary terrains along the its western fringes. The shallow subduction angle is also thought to be responsible for the tectonics that produced the Basin and Range Province.

 

The continental margin became a depositional zone for a thick sequence of shallow marine shelf carbonate and siliciclastic rocks, which are overlain by later continental arc volcanism and volcaniclastic formations of the Late Cretaceous to early Cenozoic Lower Volcanic Complex. This latter continental arc volcanism culminated with the Laramide orogeny in the early to late Eocene (Alaniz-Alvarez et al., 2007). The waning of compression is believed to coincide with the first part of Basin and Range extension (Wark et al., 1990; Aguirre-Diaz and McDowell, 1991, 1993).

 

The NE-SE trending Sierra Madre Occidental extends a distance of over 1200 km from the USA-Mexican border to Guadalajara in the southeast, and has an average elevation of 2000 meters (Figure 7.1). The Sierra Madre Occidental was created by Cretaceous to Cenozoic magmatic episodes related to the subduction of the Farallon Plate under North America in a series of mainly silicic eruptive pulses.

  

Figure 7.1: Regional Tectonic Map of Northwestern Mexico

 

 

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The silicic volcanism is thought to be related to fractional crystallisation of mantle sourced basalts from subduction (Johnson, 1991; Wark, 1991). Subduction of the Farallon plate also caused the opening of Gulf of California (Ferrari et al 2007), most likely related to slab roll back and subsequent extension at the continental margin.

 

Ferrari et al (2007) summarises five main igneous deposits of the Sierra Madre Occidental;

 

§Plutonic/volcanic rocks - Late Cretaceous –Paleocene.

 

§Andesite and lesser dacite-rhyolite - Eocene (Lower Volcanic Complex).

 

§Silicic ignimbrites - Early Oligocene & Miocene (Upper Volcanic Complex).

 

§Basaltic-andesitic lava - late stage of and after ignimbrites pulses.

 

§Repeat and episodic volcanism related to rifting of the Gulf of California (alkaline basalt and ignimbrite) emplaced to western flanks in Late Miocene Pliocene and Quaternary.

 

At the final stages of the deformation period during the Paleocene – Early Eocene, E-W and ENE-WSW extension occurred in the Lower Volcanic Complex that now hosts many porphyry deposits of the Sierra Madre Occidental. These porphyry deposits are hosted in Middle Jurassic to Tertiary aged intrusions, located at Cananea, Nacozari and La Caridad. (Ferrari et. al., 2007). The Early Eocene, E-W and ENE-WSW extensional directions are similar to the orientation of the vein at the nearby Santa Elena mine.

 

Early Oligocene extensional tectonics occurred along the eastern Sierra Madre Occidental flank, forming the typical basin and range province. By early to mid-Miocene extension migrated west into Northern Sonora and along the western flank of the Sierra Madre Occidental, forming NNW striking normal faults and creating tilted blocks. This extensional regime caused major deformation across the Sierra Madre Occidental, exhuming pre-Cambrian basement rocks especially in the Northern Sierra Madre Occidental (Ferrari et. al., 2007).

 

Northwest trending shear zones and associated faulting appear to be an important control on silver gold mineralization at Cruz de Mayo, and elsewhere in the Sonora region. The structural separation along the faults localized the conduits for mineral bearing solutions. The heat source for the mineralizing solutions was likely from the plutonic rocks that commonly outcrop in Sonora.

 

The Parallel Ranges and Valleys to the west of the Sierra Madre Occidental show structural similarities and extensional tectonic regimes to that of the Basin and Range Province further east.

 

7.2Local Geology

 

The geology of the Cruz de Mayo property comprises a sequence of felsic to intermediate volcanic and volcaniclastic rocks that have been thrust over a predominantly andesitic footwall. Local silicification of the thrust sequence and adjacent wall rocks gives rise to the N-W trending ridge that hosts the deposit. Mineralization is largely restricted to a series of discontinuous quartz veins that occupy the broad deformation zone created by the thrust fault.

 

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The primary rock types observed on the property are intact Tertiary andesite to rhyolitic flows, related volcaniclastic rocks including well bedded to graded ash and lapilli tuff, and silica hosted breccia comprised of the volcanic units within the thrust sequence (Figure 7.2). Andesite in the footwall strikes approximately N-S and dips consistently 18-25° west. In comparison, volcanic rocks in the hangingwall display evidence of rotation, possibly related to drag folding or other compressional movement along the thrust fault. Individual units in the hangingwall typically dip 20-30° to the east.

 

Alteration within the deposit is widespread and pervasive, and mainly consists of silicification, kaolinization, and chloritization. Kaolin has formed primarily along joints, fractures and contacts, which are deeply weathered and oxidized. Limonite within the oxide zone consists of a brick-red colour after pyrite, brown goethite and local yellow jarosite. Manganese occurs locally as pyrolusite and minor psilomelane. Gangue minerals consist of quartz, calcite, chlorite and fluorite. Analysis shows calcium content of up to 15% in the thrust fault gangue.

 

It is postulated that the structural deformation associated with the thrust fault provided a conduit system for mineralizing fluids, possibly causing hydrothermal brecciation, and was further enhanced by an increase in porosity and heterogeneity in the surrounding rhyolitic and volcaniclastic rocks. The deformation has been traced along strike for approximately 2.5 km, and ranges from one to 90 m wide (~ 30 m average). The zone dips from 10º to 30º to the southwest, and has been tested to a depth of approximately 200 m from surface. In addition to thrusting, there is also evidence that steeply-dipping N-S and N-E trending brittle faults bisect the thrust sequence and locally offset mineralization on the scale of 10’s of metres.

 

Minor intrusive rocks have also been identified at Cruz de Mayo, and include andesite porphyry dikes and granodiorite stocks. While the volume of intrusive rocks is insignificant compared to the volcanic rocks, it is likely that the heat from these intrusive events was the driving force behind the mineral-bearing fluids that permeated the area.

 

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Figure 7.2: Local Geology of the Cruz de Mayo Property

 

 

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7.3Cruz de Mayo Mineralization

 

Cruz de Mayo is categorized as a low-sulphidation, epithermal silver deposit with minor gold and trace amounts of copper, lead and zinc. Silver is hosted primarily as acanthite-argentite with minor amounts of pyrargyrite-proustite and secondary cerargyrite. Mineralization occurs in banded quartz veins, stockwork and breccia and is commonly associated with silver sulfosalts, fluorite, calcite and trace sulphides. Iron oxides, including limonite, jarosite, goethite and hematite are also commonly associated with mineralization. Manganese oxides are also locally observed in the southeast part of the mineralized zone.

 

Mineralization is concentrated by a series of shallowly dipping tabular bodies that occur within or parallel to, the deformation zone resulting from thrusting (Figure 7.3). A total of four discrete mineralized zones ranging in thickness from 1-30 m were modelled based on available drill data. The four zones generally follow the geometry of the interpreted thrust fault, and comprise the bulk of the mineralization observed on the property. For the purposes of this study, these zones have been termed the Upper, Middle, Lower, and Northwest mineralized zones.

 

A second style of mineralization was observed in the central part of the ridge at Cruz de Mayo, occurring at the contact between easterly dipping volcanic flows located in the hangingwall. Well defined mineralized zones typically occur at the base of andesite flows and are likely related to permeability differences which likely acted as a barrier to fluid flow. In general, the easterly dipping mineralized zones are narrow relative to the main zones and volumetrically much less significant. For the purposes of this study, the easterly dipping mineralized zones are herein termed the Andesite and Northwest zones.

 

A possible third style of mineralization associated with steeply-dipping structures in the area is also postulated at Cruz de Mayo. Mineralization in the deposit is frequently both offset and augmented by several generations of steeply-dipping brittle faults that cut across the thrust sequence at an oblique angle. These structures form many of the small drainage valleys and linear topographic features observed adjacent to the main ridge. Some of these cross-cutting features may be responsible for the high grade shoots (greater than 500 g/t silver) observed, although their precise influence on the distribution of mineralization remains poorly understood. Based on several high grade mineralized intercepts located in the footwall, it is also postulated that potential exists for a steeply dipping “feeder” system at depth. Additional work is required before these zones can be modelled with any certainty.

 

The permeable nature of the fractured zones has allowed significant oxidation to occur to at least 150 vertical metres below the surface. The deepest core hole intersected the mineralized zone at approximately 150 vertical metres and shows oxidation. Metal zonation appears to correspond to northwest-trending regional lineaments that are intersected by northeast-trending structures that cross-cut the mineralized zone and form high grade shoots. No vertical zonation is apparent. Minor sulphides have been observed only in a few locations within the mineralized zone.

 

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Figure 7.3: Schematic Cross-Section (~3,341,250 N) Showing Geometry of Deposit, View is Looking North

 

 

8.0DEPOSIT TYPES

 

Mineralization at Cruz de Mayo occurs as a series of quartz veins and stockwork and is typical of volcanic dome, low-sulphidation deposits found in the Sierra Madre Occidental and elsewhere in the world, such as Santa Elena deposit in Sonora, Mexico. These deposits form in predominantly felsic sub-aerial volcanic complexes in extensional and strike-slip structural regimes. Samples collected by SilverCrest at Cruz de Mayo show a geochemical signature of Ag+Pb+Zn+Cu+Au+Ca+Mn, consistent with a high level low-sulphidation system.

 

The mineralization is the result of ascending structurally controlled low-sulphidation silica-rich fluids into a near-surface environment. Mineral deposition takes place as the fluids undergo cooling by fluid mixing, boiling and decompression. Brecciation of the mineralized zone appears to be due to explosive venting from nearby intrusions and volcanism, followed by mineral deposition by ascending fluids. A large intrusion (granodiorite to granite) located approximately 500 m west of Cruz de Mayo may be an associated source of mineralizing fluids on for the property.

 

9.0EXPLORATION

 

9.1Previous Exploration by SilverCrest

 

Reconnaissance and initial geological surveying of the property has occurred since 2005, consisting of prospecting and outcrop grab sampling, followed by core drilling holes near the upper elevation of the main ridge.

 

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In 2006 and the first half of 2007, SilverCrest completed an exploration program at Cruz de Mayo, which included surface mapping and sampling, core drilling and RC drilling as presented in the following sections. Additional exploration RC drilling was carried out in 2008. Sampling was designed to follow up and confirm previous surface results reported by Tormex during the 1970’s. A limited number of SilverCrest’s results were consistent with Tormex results.

 

An airborne survey was flown by Eagle Mapping in 2007 to collect photos and topographic elevation data for the creation of a property DTM.

 

Mapping and continuous chip sampling was conducted within the two accessible excavations in 2010. The walls of the excavation were surveyed which provided the basis for the current excavation model used in GEMS modelling software.

 

9.2Exploration by SilverCrest Metals

 

SilverCrest Metals has compiled and organized the existing data for the property which is to be used for further project development and regional assessment.

 

10.0DRILLInG

 

Drilling on the project is limited to early campaigns from 1970 and 1980, which have not been verified and are not incorporated into the Mineral Resource Estimate, and more recent drilling completed by SilverCrest between 2005 and 2012. The SilverCrest drilling is now considered historical, however, has been verified as described in Section 12 and is the basis of the Mineral Resource Estimate.

 

10.1Historical drill programs

 

SilverCrest carried out six drill programs between 2005 and 2012, completing a grand total of over 15,000 metres of drilling. Programs included both core and RC drilling, as summarized in Table 10.1 and discussed in the following sections. A map showing the distribution of drill holes is provided in Figure 10.1.

 

Table 10.1: Cruz de Mayo Drill Summary

 

Year Company Number
of Holes
Drilled
Drill Type Core
Type
Total
metres
Included in
2007/2011
estimate
Included in
current
estimate
Early 1970's Tormex 5 Diamond Drill 419.7 NO NO
Early1980's Tormex 11 Diamond Drill 452.2 NO NO
2005 SilverCrest 3 Diamond Drill NQ 379.4 YES YES
2006 SilverCrest 20 Diamond Drill NQ 1,812.90 YES YES
2007 SilverCrest 27 Reverse Circulation 2,904 YES YES
2008 SilverCrest 10 Reverse Circulation 1,818 NO YES
2011 SilverCrest 17 Diamond Drill NQ 1,474.40 NO YES
2011 SilverCrest 7 Reverse Circulation 464.8 NO YES
2012 SilverCrest 30 Reverse Circulation 4,208.20 NO YES

 

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Year Company Number
of Holes
Drilled
Drill Type Core
Type
Total
metres
Included in
2007/2011
estimate
Included in
current
estimate
2012 SilverCrest 11 Diamond Drill NQ 1,339.40   YES
Total   141     15,273    

 

2005

 

SilverCrest completed a diamond drill program consisting of three holes totalling 379.4 m in early 2005. The NQ sized holes were drilled to test the down dip projection of mineralization identified on surface. Two holes were vertical (CM05-01, 02) and one hole (CM05-03) was angled from hole number 02 to utilize a single drill pad. Drilling was completed by Major Drilling de Mexico (Major), a subsidiary of Major Drilling Canada of Ontario, using a Longyear 38 drill and associated support equipment.

 

2006

 

The Company carried out a diamond drill program comprised of 20 holes for a total of 1,812.9 m. Drilling was completed by Major, using a Longyear 38 drill and associated support equipment. Core holes (NQ size) were drilled on 100 m to 150 m sections along the northwest trending strike of the mineralized zone. All holes but one were drilled vertically. Periodic downhole surveys were completed to test deviation. Most of the holes were short and showed little to no change in orientation.

 

2007

 

In the spring of 2007, the company completed a reverse circulation drill program consisting of 27 holes totalling 2,904 m. Drilling mainly targeted deep mineralization along the top of the ridge as well as the down-dip extension of the zone to the southwest.

 

2008

 

In 2008, 10 reverse circulation holes totalling approximately 2,000 metres were drilled, focussed on extending the main mineralized trend along the northwestern part of the ridge. No significant mineralization was intersected in most of this drilling, suggesting a northern limit to the mineralized zone or possible offset by the prominent north-south or northwest trending faults in that area. The only significant result from the program came from CMRC08-53, a hole drilled in the southern part of the resource area that returned 33 m of 83.7 g/t Ag.

 

2011

 

In 2011 the company drilled 7 reverse circulation holes totalling approximately 464 m and meters and an additional 17 diamond drill holes totalling 1,474 m. All of the holes, with the exception of CM11-76, were drilled vertically and mainly concentrated in the southern part of the property.

 

2012

In 2012, the company completed a reverse circulation and diamond drill program totalling 5,547.6 m. Drilling comprised a series of fans drilled in the central part of the ridge in an effort to infill areas of known mineralization (refer Figure 10-1).

 

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Figure 10.1: Cruz de Mayo Drillhole Location Map

 

 

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10.2Historical Drilling Results

 

Table 10.2 provides a breakdown of the significant intercepts returned from the SilverCrest drill programs. For the purposes of the current report, weighted averages were calculated for all intersections of two or more consecutive samples containing grades greater than 15 g/t Ag. Gold values typically fall below 0.1 g/t, but increase and show a good correlation in higher silver grades. The intervals reported are downhole lengths and have not been corrected for true width.

 

Table 10.2: Significant Drillhole Intercepts

 

DDH From To Interval Weighted
Average
Silver

Weighted

Average Gold

  m m m g/t g/t
CM05-02 40.7 99.6 58.9 110.90 0.10
CM05-03 53.1 81.3 28.2 70.80 0.04
CM06-08 42 68.3 26.2 77.00 0.09
CMRC07-24 25.5 33 7.5 29.20 0.00
CMRC07-25 30 40.5 10.5 106.40 0.09
CMRC07-26 15 25.5 10.5 77.50 0.05
CMRC07-27 9 13.5 4.5 16.30 0.03
CMRC07-28 31 54 23 97.20 0.12
CMRC07-31 40.5 43.5 3 38.00 0.01
CMRC07-32 46.5 60 13.5 167.70 0.79
CMRC07-33 48 78 30 56.00 0.08
CMRC07-33 96 100.5 4.5 53.00 0.02
CMRC07-34 145.5 155 9.5 39.80 0.00
CMRC07-35 115.5 202.5 87 62.00 0.05
CMRC07-36 85.5 88.5 3 29.50 0.06
CMRC07-38 88.5 93 4.5 43.70 0.04
CMRC07-38 130.5 142.5 12 169.50 0.11
CMRC07-39 40.5 46.5 6 156.50 0.11
CMRC07-40 54 63 9 78.80 0.07
CMRC07-41 54 60 6 41.00 0.04
CMRC07-42 3 51 48 34.90 n/a*
CMRC07-43 16.5 96 79.5 52.80 0.05
CMRC07-44 33 37.5 4.5 26.30 0.02
CMRC07-44 75 88.5 13.5 38.90 0.03

 

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DDH From To Interval Weighted
Average
Silver

Weighted

Average Gold

  m m m g/t g/t
CMRC07-48 108 151 43 46.60 n/a*
CMRC07-49 152 189.5 37.5 30.58 n/a*
CMRC07-50 112.5 118.5 6 76.50 n/a*
CMRC08-53 3 36 33 83.73 0.00
CM11-62 11.6 17.85 6.3 52.51 0.09
CM11-63 0 14.45 14.5 25.38 0.04
CM11-64 21.12 32.93 11.8 87.44 0.18
CM11-66 39 72 33.0 47.89 0.04
CM11-67 0 9 9.0 36.03 0.04
CM11-70 26 50 24.0 47.51 0.06
CM11-78 101 112 11.0 50.69 0.26
CMRC11-02 13.72 16.77 3.1 39.02 0.18
CMRC11-03 15.25 24.4 9.2 41.79 0.03
CMRC11-04 0 4.57 4.6 47.83 0.14
CMRC11-06 0 7.62 7.6 31.41 0.11
CMRC11-07 10.67 18.3 7.6 17.40 0.04
CM-12-80 54 60 6.0 348.85 0.73
CM-12-81 112 126 14.0 836.14 0.12
CM-12-83 97 135 38.0 84.67 0.06
CM-12-84 108 143.3 35.3 69.97 0.06
CMRC12-08 12.19 41.44 29.3 94.34 0.13
CMRC12-09 25.91 41.15 15.2 50.22 0.11
CMRC12-09 86.86 106.68 19.8 24.80 0.01
CMRC12-10 9.14 42.67 33.5 40.02 0.06
CMRC12-11 70.1 77.72 7.6 19.20 0.03
CMRC12-12 24.38 53.34 29.0 21.23 0.09
CMRC12-12 73.15 77.72 4.6 26.01 0.06
CMRC12-14 30.48 35.05 4.6 23.01 0.06
CMRC12-16 0 3.04 3.0 60.50 0.47
CMRC12-16 18.28 38.1 19.8 33.98 0.10
CMRC12-17 18.28 33.52 15.2 49.36 0.19

 

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DDH From To Interval Weighted
Average
Silver

Weighted

Average Gold

  m m m g/t g/t
CMRC12-20 94.48 102.1 7.6 486.16 0.12
CMRC12-21 6.09 10.68 4.6 115.01 0.19
CMRC12-24 74.67 86.86 12.2 162.65 0.18
CMRC12-25 53.34 68.58 15.2 137.84 0.63
CMRC12-26 67.05 70.1 3.1 192.36 0.21
CMRC12-90 141 145.5 4.5 205.30 0.12
CMRC12-90 189.00 202.50 13.50 145.88 0.47
CMRC12-91 81 93 12.0 68.33 0.08
CMRC12-94 31.5 45 13.5 64.79 0.10
CMRC12-94 55.5 63 7.5 138.06 0.12
CMRC12-95 147 159 12.0 1949.64 2.47
Incl. 148.5 154.5 6.0 3682.50 4.70
CMRC12-96 12.00 15.00 3.00 41.05 0.08

* Samples not analyzed for gold

 

10.3Surveying and mapping topography

 

All surveying, including drill hole collars, was completed by SilverCrest personnel using a handheld GPS. Drill collars were marked in the field with a concrete cap or PVC pipe.

 

Eagle Mapping of Vancouver B.C. completed an aerial flight in 2007 with detailed (2 m) contouring of the project. An average vertical discrepancy of 2.54 metres was observed between the DTM and ground surveyed co-ordinates, however, there was a variance between 0.60 and 5.74 metres. Due to this variance, all drill pads and drillhole collar elevations were validated and adjusted to match the new DTM topography elevations.

 

To ensure that all interpretations are accurate, Tetra Tech EBA requested that an independent professional surveyor be commissioned to resurvey the drillhole collars to ensure correct locations were used in modelling and assay interpretations. This resurvey was carried out on the 2011-2012 drillhole collar locations independently by the onsite operations surveyor from the Santa Elena mine and reaffirmed the drill hole coordinates to an acceptable level of confidence. This data was thereafter used in Tetra Tech EBA’s site interpretations and reporting. Some uncertainty does exist for previous year’s holes (i.e. 2007 and 2008) as many of the cemented collar locations were not located on the property, however, previous independent review and evidence of drill pad set-ups support the existence of these holes.

 

10.4Drilling by SilverCrest Metals Inc.

 

No drilling has been conducted on the property by SilverCrest Metals Inc.

 

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11.0SAMPLE PREPARATION, ANALYSIS AND SECURITY

 

11.1Sample Collection Methods

  

11.1.1Historic Sample Collection Methods

 

Knowledge of the sampling methodology for work completed prior to 2005 is limited. All underground sampling completed by Minera Looker was inadequately documented and Tetra Tech EBA was unable to determine the approach.

 

11.1.22005-2006, Sample Collection Methods

 

During the 2005 and 2006 drill program, core was collected in plastic core boxes and labelled for hole identification and location. Each day, the core boxes were collected and delivered to the laydown area located on the property. The core was measured for further identification and recovery and then geologically logged. After identifying the mineralized zone, core was selected for splitting in half with a hydraulic hand splitter.

 

Sample intervals were determined geologically. Once split, the core was placed in a plastic bag with a label and marked with the sample number. The remaining core was stored on the property in an enclosed area at the camp site or in the yard (under cover) at the exploration office in Cumpas.

 

11.1.32007, Sample Collection Methods

 

Sampling during the 2007 RC drill program consisted of collecting rock chips in plastic bags at one metre intervals and labelling each with a sample number. Duplicate samples were collected for each interval with a small amount of chips collected in plastic chip boxes for geological logging. Every day, the marked plastic bags and chip boxes were collected and delivered to the camp located on the property, where the individual bags were prepared for shipping.

 

All surveying, including drillhole collars, was completed by Nusantara personnel using GPS. The drill collars are marked in the field with a concrete cap or PVC pipe. Eagle Mapping of Vancouver B.C. completed an aerial flight in 2007 with detailed (1 to 2 m) contouring of the project. All drill pads and holes were validated using the new surface topography. The drill collars were marked in the field with a concrete cap.

 

11.1.42008, Sample Collection Methods

 

Sample collection methods were undocumented for the 2008 RC drilling program. It is anticipated that similar methods to the 2007 RC campaign were employed.

 

11.1.52011 - 2012, Sample Collection Methods

 

Core samples recovered during the 2011 drilling program were placed in plastic core boxes and labelled for hole identification and location. Each day, the core boxes were collected and delivered to the core storage facility located in Cumpas. Core recovery and RQD was measured and then core geologically logged. Sampling intervals between 1 and 3 metres were marked with tags by the project geologist and then cut in half with a diamond saw. Occasional hand split samples were noted to occur in the sample boxes. Half of the core was individually bagged and labelled in preparation for shipping. The remaining core was stored onsite in a core rack in Cumpas.

 

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Sampling during the 2011-2012 RC drill program consisted of collecting rock chips representing approximately 1.5 metre runs from the cyclone in buckets and after separated using the riffle splitter and taken two samples weighing approximately 15 kg each. Of these, one was sent to the lab and the other was transferred to a labelled plastic bag for storage in Cumpas.

 

Initial collar surveying was completed by SilverCrest personnel using handheld GPS and later by the onsite operations surveyor from the nearby SilverCrest Santa Elena mine. The drill collars were marked in the field with a concrete cap and/or PVC pipe. The collar locations were validated and adjusted vertically using the Eagle Mapping surface topography collected in 2007.

 

11.2Sample Preparation and Analysis Methods

 

11.2.12005 - 2006, Sample Preparation and Analysis Methods

 

Drill core samples were received at the ALS-Chemex laboratory in Hermosillo, Sonora, Mexico. The samples were crushed, riffle split and pulverized to 85% under 75 microns.

 

All samples were analyzed with multi-element ICP41. Silver was tested using aqua regia digestion with ICP finish (method Ag-AA46) and compared with four-acid digestion with ICP finish (method Ag-AA62). Gold was tested using fire assay fusion and AA finish.

 

SilverCrest did not insert standards or blanks within the sample population for this program. Quality control was not able to be conducted on these samples..

 

Security for the samples was completed using typical tagging and tracking of samples up to delivery to the laboratory.

 

11.2.22007, Sample Preparation and Analysis Methods

 

Rock chip samples were received at the ALS-Chemex laboratory in Hermosillo, Sonora, Mexico. The samples were crushed, riffle split and pulverized to 85% under 75 microns.

 

Sampling records indicate that silver was tested using four-acid digestion with ICP finish (method Ag-AA62). Gold was tested using fire assay fusion and AA finish.

 

Standards and blanks were not inserted within the sample population during this program. Quality control was not able to be conducted on these samples.

 

11.2.32008, Sample Preparation and Analysis Methods

 

Rock chip samples were received at the ALS-Chemex laboratory in Hermosillo, Sonora, Mexico. The samples were crushed, riffle split and pulverized to 85% under 75 microns.

 

All samples were analyzed with multi-element ICP41. Silver was tested using aqua regia digestion with ICP finish (method Ag-AA46) for holes CMRC08-52 and CMRC08-54, and selectively in well mineralized intervals with four-acid digestion with ICP finish (method Ag-AA62) for hole CMRC08-53 and CMRC08-55 to 60. Gold was tested using fire assay fusion and AA finish.

 

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Standards and blanks were not inserted within the sample population during this program. Quality control was not able to be conducted on these samples.

 

11.2.42011 - 2012, Sample Preparation and Analysis Methods

 

Samples that were determined by the project geologist to be mineralized were sent directly to the ALS Chemex preparation facility located in Hermosillo. The pulps were then sent to their analytical facility located in North Vancouver, British Columbia. The remaining samples were sent to the Nusantara lab at the nearby Santa Elena mine site. Were significant mineralization was noted in samples at the Nusantara facility, the pulps were sent directly to ALS Chemex for verification analysis.

 

Individual laboratory procedures are described below.

 

SilverCrest inserted some standards and blanks into the sample population, as described in Section 12.

 

11.2.4.1Santa Elena Mine, Laboratory Methods

 

The samples were dried, crushed and riffle split to approximately 250g, and then pulverized to <90% of -150 mesh before being digested using aqua regia and analysed with atomic absorption finish for silver and by fire assay fusion and atomic absorption finish or gravimetic analysis for gold.

 

11.2.4.2ALS –Chemex, Laboratory Methods

 

Samples were sent to the ALS-Chemex preparation facility located in Hermosillo, Sonora, where they were dried, crushed, and pulverized to 85% under 75 microns, or better. The pulps were then sent to their analytical facility located in North Vancouver, British Columbia, where they were digested with aqua regia and analysed using ICP-AES for silver (ME-ICP41), and digested with fire assay and analysed with atomic absorption for gold (Au-AA23). Ore grade analysis (Ag-OG46) was conducted on samples assaying greater than 100 gpt silver.

 

11.3Tetra Tech EBA Statement

 

Tetra Tech EBA is of the opinion that the sample collection approach and analytical methodologies undertaken by SilverCrest during their drilling campaigns meet accepted industry standards; consideration for the sample digestion method is important in assessing the project. A lack of analytical quality control during drilling campaigns has required extensive data verification (Section 12) to provide confidence in the integrity of the data. Based on review of the data, it is felt that the sample collection and analysis is appropriate for the style of deposit and for use in mineral resource estimation.

 

12.0DATA VERIFICATION

 

12.1Previous Data verification

 

The following subsections are adapted from the previous SWRPA (2007) and EBA Engineering (now Tetra Tech EBA) (2011) technical reports for the Cruz de Mayo property.

 

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12.1.1Check Sampling

 

As part of the initial resource estimate for Cruz de Mayo in 2007, SWRPA collected select samples for verification, including a surface channel sample and quarter splits of drill core. Samples were dried, crushed, split and pulverized to 90% passing minus 150 mesh. Gold was determined by a 30 g fire assay with an AA finish and re-run with a gravimetric finish if the value was greater than 0.1 g/t. All silver assays were 30 g fire assay with an aqua regia finish. Comparison of the SWRPA and SilverCrest results are shown in Table 12.1. SWRPA concluded that the grade comparisons were considered to be within acceptable ranges for the type of deposit.

 

Table 12.1: 2006 Check Sample Results

 

Location Company Sample
Number
Length Gold Silver Gold Silver
      m g/t g/t % diff % diff
Media de Luna (Surface) SilverCrest 590911 2.5 0.09 53.5 -27 21
SWRPA H038627 2 0.124 44.3
Oasis stock work SilverCrest 585084 2 0.007 0.5 40 -17
SWRPA H038628 2 0.005 0.6
DH CM05-02, 42.35 to 44.2m SilverCrest 560844 1.85 0.09 135 -17 31
SWRPA H038629 1.85 0.109 103

 

12.1.2Analytical Methods

 

As part of the verification process, SWRPA recommended that all mineralized samples be re-analyzed for silver using a four-acid digest analytical method. This method for silver analysis is standard practice for most silver deposits in Northern Mexico and Southwest U.S.A. The justification was based on the premise that silver mineralization is not fully digested under standard fire/AA finish or ICP analysis using aqua regia, thereby giving artificially low silver values. A specific case history for this silver geochemistry and impact on silver grades was presented by Minefinders Corp. Ltd. (Minefinders) for the Dolores Project also located in Northern Mexico (refer to Minefinders’ website for more information). At Dolores, re-analysis increased the average silver grades by over 30%.

 

Selected results for the ICP versus four-acid digest methods for SilverCrest’s samples are presented in Table 12.2, along with QA/QC for duplicate analysis of the four-acid digest method. For QA/QC, analyses were completed at ALS Chemex and ACME in Vancouver on ALS Chemex pulps from core sampling.

 

Table 12.2: Comparison of 4-Acid vs. Aqua Regia Methods

 

Sample
#
ALS
ICP41
Silver
Chemex
4Acid
Silver
ACME 4
Acid
Silver
ALS ICP
vs ALS 4
Acid
ALS ICP
vs ACME
4 Acid
ALS-
ACME
ALS-
ACME >
10g/t
  ppm Ppm g/t % change % change % change % change
560506 11.2 35 35 213 213 0 0
560511 20.7 48 44 132 113 8 8

 

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Sample
#
ALS
ICP41
Silver
Chemex
4Acid
Silver
ACME 4
Acid
Silver
ALS ICP
vs ALS 4
Acid
ALS ICP
vs ACME
4 Acid
ALS-
ACME
ALS-
ACME >
10g/t
  ppm Ppm g/t % change % change % change % change
560516 6.3 20 21 217 233 -5 -5
560524 0.5 1 1 100 100 0  
560530 1.6 5 5 213 213 0  
560535 2.3 6 4 161 74 33  
560540 0.8 2 3 150 275 -50  
560568 1.3 2 1 54 -23 50  
560577 3.6 7 5 94 39 29  
560588 147 230 207 56 41 10 10
560593 1.7 2 4 18 135 -100  
560608 9.6 18 17 88 77 6 6
665329 5.8 12 11 107 90 8 8
665334 1 1 1 0 0 0  
666432 1.5 6 4 300 167 33  
666437 1.2 3 3 150 150 0  
666442 1 1 1 0 0 0  
666508 1 1 1 0 0 0  
666513 0.2 1 1 400 400 0  
666518 0.5 3 1 500 100 67  
666523 0.3 3 1 900 233 67  
666577 1.7 5 4 194 135 20  
666582 1.8 7 6 289 233 14  
666598 3.7 9 9 143 143 0  
666607 4.2 8 9 90 114 -13  
666612 2.8 8 9 186 221 -13  
666617 0.6 1 1 67 67 0  
666622 1 3 1 200 0 67  
666627 6.3 22 19 249 202 14 14
666632 0.8 3 3 275 275 0  
666637 0.5 2 1 300 100 50  
666642 0.7 2 1 186 43 50  
666647 0.6 2 1 233 67 50  
666652 1.4 4 3 186 114 25  
666669 0.3 2 1 567 233 50  
666712 0.7 4 1 471 43 75  
666717 247 501 372 103 51 26 26
666722 1.7 10 12 488 606 -20 -20
666778 3.2 13 12 306 275 8 8
666783 1 6 6 500 500 0  

 

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Sample
#
ALS
ICP41
Silver
Chemex
4Acid
Silver
ACME 4
Acid
Silver
ALS ICP
vs ALS 4
Acid
ALS ICP
vs ACME
4 Acid
ALS-
ACME
ALS-
ACME >
10g/t
  ppm Ppm g/t % change % change % change % change
666795 24.6 63 67 156 172 -6 -6
666878 3.1 14 11 352 255 21 21
666883 9.4 31 32 230 240 -3 -3
666888 10.9 25 27 129 148 -8 -8
666989 1.6 6 8 275 400 -33  
666999 1.5 4 1 167 -33 75  
621507 1.5 5 3 233 100 40  
621512 1.6 5 7 213 338 -40  
666932 0.7 3 1 329 43 67  
621522 1 1 1 0 0 0  
621533 0.5 2 1 300 100 50  
621538 0.4 2 3 400 650 -50  
621543 5.7 17 11 198 93 35 35
621548 0.2 2 1 900 400 50  
621559 3.7 7 13 89 251 -86 -86
621579 1.8 5 5 178 178 0  
621592 2 6 4 200 100 33  
Mean 19.6 42 35.8        
Average Difference   232 166 12 0

 

The results for both labs are consistent in showing significantly higher silver grades when using the four-acid digestion method of analysis. Although the ACME results have a higher detection limit, the limited results on the duplicate pulps show consistent overall correlation of grades. Based on these results, SWRPA determined that the four-acid digest analytical method provided a more complete picture of actual silver mineralization and utilized this data for the previous estimate completed in 2007.

 

12.1.32006 - 2007 Twin Drill Program

  

Twin holes were completed for several of the historical core holes drilled by Tormex in 1970 and 1980. The purpose of this exercise was to verify the significant silver intercepts as well as address the potential recovery effects on reported grades. Core recoveries from the SilverCrest’s 2006 drill program were also considered to be poor in the mineralized zone, ranging from nil to +80%. As part of the twin program, both diamond and RC drilling was completed to collect representative samples to determine the influence that poor recoveries had on grade. Tables 12.3 and 12.4 provides the results of this work.

 

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Table 12.3: 2006 Twin Drill Program Results

 

SilverCrest
Drill Hole
Number
From To Interval Weighted
Average
Silver
Tormex
Drill
Hole
Number
From To Interval Weighted
Average
Silver
  m m M g/t   m m m g/t
CM06-05 10 13.4 3.4 78.3 CM-01 6.8 30.8 24 35
CM06-06 27.1 40.8 13.8 26.9 CM-04 4 42 38 42.6
CM06-07 14.8 25.6 10.8 55.8 CM-02 13.9 31.9 18 93.3
CM06-09 10.3 32.6 22.3 6 CM-05 9.55 29.6 20 159

 

Table 12.4: 2007 Twin Drill Program Results

 

SilverCrest
Drill Hole
Number
From To Interval Weighted
Average
Silver
Tormex
Drill
Hole
Number
From To Interval Weighted
Average
Silver
  m m m g/t   m m m g/t
CMRC07-27 9 13.5 4.5 16.3 CM-01 6.8 30.8 24 35
CMRC07-25 30 40.5 10.5 106.4 CM-04 4 42 38 42.6
CMRC07-26 15 25.5 10.5 77.5 CM-02 13.9 31.9 18 93.3
CMRC07-24 25.5 33 7.5 29.2 CM-05 9.55 29.6 20 159

 

Overall, the results show a high degree of variability in both grade and thickness in the all drilling. Although the SilverCrest twin holes intersected significant silver mineralization, the actual grades were highly variable and generally inconsistent with historical values. In addition, with the exception of CM06-09, all of the SilverCrest twin holes returned interval widths that were significantly less than previously reported, often by more than double.

  

Based on these results, the twin drillhole program was successful in confirming silver mineralization but failed to reproduce the historical intercepts. Differences in grade may in part be explained by the nuggety nature of the deposit, or by differing analytical methods between past and present. However, the mineralized intervals reported by Tormex drilling do not appear to be reproducible. Due to these inconsistencies, the historical drilling from 1970 and 1980 was excluded from the 2007, as well as the current, resource estimation.

 

12.2Tetra Tech EBA Data Verification

 

12.2.1Site Visit and Assay Verification

 

Site visits to the property and the core storage facility was conducted by James Barr, P.Geo, on May 10, 2011, May 12, 2012, and Oct 15-16, 2012. Basic site mapping was undertaken during the May 2012 trip and verification samples were collected during the Oct 2012 trip.

 

Verification sampling was conducted on drill core that was available within the gated storage facility located in Cumpas, Sonora, Mexico, located 20 kilometres south of the property. RC chips from the 2011-2012 campaign were stored at the facility, however, the plastic bags were sun damaged and in a state of degradation and no attempt was made to resample this material. Table 12.5 outlines the results of the independent sample checks.

 

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Table 12.5: Tetra Tech EBA Verification Sampling, Oct 2012

 

Hole From (m) To (m)   Sample Numbers Ag (g/t)* Au (g/t) SG**
CM-12-83 106 107 SVL 638216 231.1 0.14  
EBA 500433 202 n/a 2.66
CM-12-83 107 108 SVL 638217 102.4 0.16  
EBA 500434 113 n/a 2.69
CM-12-83 132 133 SVL 638242 298.1 0.09  
EBA 500435 100 n/a 2.67
CM-12-84 121 122 SVL 638341 240.3 0.14  
EBA 500436 730 n/a 2.64
CM-12-72 73 74 SVL 501275 12 0.02  
EBA 500437 6.7 n/a 2.73
CM-12-72 83 84 SVL 501285 14.7 0.03  
EBA 500438 9.2 n/a 2.74
Reference Standard CDN-ME-19 CDN n/a 103 +/-7 0.62 +/-0.62 -
EBA 500439 104 n/a 2.92
CM-12-80 54 55 SVL 637989 1152 1.6  
EBA 500440 >1500 n/a 2.75

 

* Reporting Ag grades from aqua regia digestion with ICP AES finish (ALS method Ag-OG46, same as Ag-AA46)

 

** by ALS method OA-GRA08b, pycnometer testing from pulp, may be higher than bulk density of core or in situ material

 

12.2.2Blank Sample Insertion

 

SilverCrest personnel inserted blank samples at approximately 30 metre increments during the 2012 RC drilling campaign. Records of these insertions for holes CMRC-12-22 through CMRC-12-28 and CMRC-12-90 to CMRC-12-91 were recovered and plotted by Tetra Tech EBA. The source material was derived from unmineralized RC chips that had previously been assayed with null results. Figure 12.1 shows the source grade of the blank sample and the resulting grade after analysis as a blank with new RC material.

 

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Figure 12.1: SilverCrest Blank Sample Insertions Assay Results

 

 

The results suggest that the blank material returned higher grades for both silver and gold when resampled at the lab as a blank material compared to their initial analysis. The maximum result for gold is 0.098 g/t and for silver is 13.2 g/t. Although, the returned values do not provide a margin of economic mineralization under the current study, they are anomalously high and suggest an error in analysis or that the source RC chips material being used was heterogeneous and inappropriate for use as a quality control measure.

 

To investigate the possibility of error, more work was undertaken, as described in the following section.

 

12.2.3Duplicate Sample Verification

 

Following a review the internal sampling QA/QC protocol in 2012, Tetra Tech EBA conducted an audit of current and historic sample processing methods and recommended areas where a greater level of QA/QC protocol should be introduced into the SilverCrest sampling process. The results of standard insertions by onsite company personnel during the drilling programs were determined to provide inconclusive support that no bias was introduced at the sampling or analysis stages. The recommendations included a proposal for a duplicate resampling program designed to cross check SilverCrest laboratory results against that of an independent laboratory to correlate and confirm assay results and to verify the reproducibility of silver and gold grades using original cut/split drill core material from the company’s core storage facility. In addition, Tetra Tech EBA recommended a rigorous QA/QC protocol be introduced, including insertion of reference standards and blanks for future programs, in order to increase overall confidence in the data.

 

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Duplicate samples were chosen randomly by Tetra Tech EBA and are believed to be an accurate representation of the range in rock types and mineralization styles observed on the property.

 

Table 12.7 presents the selected samples, and duplicate results for Ag (g/t) obtained from ALS Chemex. Figures 12.1 through 12.3 plot the results.

 

Table 12.7: Tetra Tech EBA Verification Sampling, Analytical Method Comparison, Oct 2012

 

Hole ID Sample
Number
Original
Lab
Duplicate
Lab
Original Assay Duplicate Sample
(ALS)
Silver Gold
  Ag (g/t) Au (g/t) Ag (g/t) Au (g/t) % diff % diff
CM11-63 501011 ALS ALS 89.5 0.10 27.8 0.06 -69 -40
CM11-64 501042 ALS ALS 164 0.44 57.9 0.31 -65 -29
CM11-70 501190 ALS ALS 2.2 0.01 2.2 0.01 0 -50
CM11-70 501199 ALS ALS 93.5 0.22 153 0.22 64 -1
CM11-72 501254 ALS ALS 3.4 0.01 3 0.01 -12 30
CM11-72 501256 ALS ALS 15.4 0.23 10.3 0.10 -33 -58
CM11-73 637507 NUS ALS 70.2 0.08 27.3 0.07 -61 -19
CM11-78 637812 NUS ALS 134.6 0.33 124 0.26 -8 -20
CM11-78 637865 NUS ALS 1.3 0.04 1 0.01 -23 -85
CM-12-81 638115 NUS ALS 1585 0.64 364 0.65 -77 2
CM-12-82 638138 NUS ALS 6.9 0.01 1.2 <0.005 -83 0
CM-12-83 638147 NUS ALS 9.6 0.02 2.5 0.03 -74 55
CM-12-83 638183 NUS ALS 0.5 0.00 1.4 <0.005 180 0
CM-12-83 638207 NUS ALS 151.3 0.17 6.7 0.01 -96 -95
CM-12-83 638209 NUS ALS 80.7 0.08 115 0.09 43 7
CM-12-84 638263 NUS ALS 66 0.02 67.5 0.19 2 835
CM-12-84 638341 NUS ALS 240.3 0.14 209 0.11 -13 -24
CM12-88 720084 NUS ALS 1.3 0.04 2.1 0.01 62 -88

 

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Figure 12.2: Duplicate Sample Verification for Silver Grades, Point Colours Denote Location of Original Sampling

 

 

Figure 12.3: Duplicate Sample Verification (in detail), Silver

 

 

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Figure 12.4: Duplicate Sample Verification, Gold

 

  

The results of the study indicated that the duplicate samples did not reproduce well, however, bias is noted in favour of both the original and the duplicate samples. This is suggestive of a high nugget effect on the scale of individual samples. The results also indicated there was no particular bias introduced by the individual laboratories upon initial analysis.

 

12.2.4Analytical Method

 

As discussed in section 12.1.2, previous report authors determined the most accurate analytical method of determining the actual silver content in a sample was through the use of four-acid digestion. Since the previous work was completed, metallurgical test work has shown that a significant portion of the mineralization at Cruz de Mayo is encapsulated within a silica phase and that the release of some silver bearing mineralization by aggressive 4-acid digestion methods may not be representative of a cyanide leach release mechanism. Table 12.6 shows a digestion method comparison using the independent samples collected by Tetra Tech EBA. Addition comparison using the 2011-2012 drilling data was completed which supported a positive grade bias to the 4-acid digestion methods as depicted in Figure 12.4.

  

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Table 12.6: Tetra Tech EBA Verification Sampling, Analytical Method Comparison, Oct 2012

 

Sample WEI-21

Ag-GRA21

(fire assay)

Ag-OG62

(4-acid)

ME-ICP41

(aqua regia)

Ag-OG46*

(aqua regia)

OA-
GRA08b
Rock
Description

Recvd Wt.

(kg)

Ag

(ppm)

Ag

(ppm)

Ag

(ppm)

Ag

(ppm)

S.G.
  0.02 5 1 0.2 1 0.01  
500433 1.86 246 279 >100 202 2.66  
500434 1.74 134 157 >100 113 2.69  
500435 0.73 236 251 >100 100 2.67  
500436 1.83 684 694 >100 730 2.64  
500437 2.14 18 27 6.7  n/a 2.73  
500438 1.71 25 32 9.2  n/a 2.74  
500439 0.07 100 104 >100 104 2.92  
500440 1.94 1595 >1500 >100 >1500 2.75  

 

*Denotes methods used for input grades of SVL samples into the Mineral Resource estimation

 

Figure 12.5: Analytical Results for 4 Acid vs Aqua Regia

 

 

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SilverCrest opted during the 2011 - 2012 drilling campaign to digest samples using aqua regia solution rather than the more aggressive dissolution using the 4-acid method as it was felt the former provided a more representative result and was akin to the cyanide leach process as part of the Santa Elena processing circuit. As a result, the assay grades obtained with aqua regia digestion were used in the current resource estimate. Where available, assays results in the database for aqua regia digestion for previous SilverCrest drilling where used in the resource estimate instead of grades reported by 4-acid digestion. Generally, the 2007 RC samples did not have aqua regia data and were only dataset to have been included using the 4-acid results. This equals approximately 23% of the overall raw assay database.

 

12.2.5Verification of Drilling Methodology

 

There was no significant, or observable, grade bias introduced by either RC drilling or core drilling techniques based on a Q-Q comparison in Figure 12.5, however, it is worth to note that core recovery was noted to be quite low. Chip recovery from RC drilling was not measured.

 

Figure 12.6: Verification of Assay Results

 

 

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12.3Drill Hole Location Verification

  

As discussed in Section 10, all surveying, including drill hole collars, was completed by Nusantara personnel using a handheld GPS and later surveyed by the operations surveyor from the Santa Elena mine. An average discrepancy of 2.54 metres was observed between the DTM and ground surveyed co-ordinates, however, there was a variance between 0.60 and 5.74 metres. Due to this variance, all drill pads and hole collar elevations were validated and adjusted to fit the Eagle Mapping DTM surface. Recent drill collar locations were located by using the surveyed drillhole database and a handheld GPS. The reported locations were well within the accuracy limits of the GPS unit.

 

12.4Tetra Tech EBA Statement on Data Verification

  

Tetra Tech EBA has conducted review of the historical sampling procedures and it has undertaken tests to verify that the reported grades are reliable for mineral resource estimation. Most notably, the internal quality control and assurance methods implemented on the Cruz de Mayo project by SilverCrest do not meet industry standard and should be improved for future work on the property. Observations have been noted that indicate a significant amount of variation exists in reported silver grades from independent duplicate sampling within the higher grade ranges, however, no significant bias towards SilverCrest sampling versus the duplicate sampling is shown to exist. No bias was noted to occur on samples that were prepared at the Nusantara lab versus ALS. The discrepancy is likely due to significant nugget effect on the scale of sample size, and possibility related to barren volcaniclastic clasts within the breccia.

 

As noted by previous report authors, laboratory sample digestion methodology can result in different grade populations for the mineralized material, notably fire assay and 4-acid acid digestion methods typically report higher assay grades for silver values above 100 gpt than assays reported by aqua regia digestion. Tetra Tech EBA has used only aqua regia assay results in the current Mineral Resource Estimate, with the exception of the 2007 RC drilling data where only 4-acid digestion data was available. The previous resource estimate incorporated grades reported from 4-acid digestion where data was available.

 

13.0MINERAL PROCESSING AND METALLURGICAL TESTINGS

 

Metallurgical testwork completed on the property in 2007, 2011, and 2012 is considered to be incomplete and inconclusive at this stage. The work is therefore considered to be historical and the reader is cautioned that it has not been relied upon for estimation of mineral resources.

 

14.0MINERAL RESOURCE ESTIMATES

 

14.1Previous Resource Estimates

 

A previous Mineral Resource Estimate for the Cruz de Mayo property was completed in 2007 by N. Eric Fier, C.P.G., P.Eng, President and Chief Operating Officer of SilverCrest and reviewed by C. Stewart Wallis, P.Geo, then of SWRPA. The mineral resource was revised in 2010 to include gold in the estimate, with silver estimate remaining unchanged. The results of the previous estimate are summarized below. For more detailed information on the key assumptions and parameters used, the reader is referred to the original technical report by Fier and Wallis filed by SilverCrest in 2007 and the report supporting the results of the PEA filed in 2011. The resource is now considered to be outdated and should no longer be relied upon.

 

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The previous estimate was based on assay data collected between 2005 to 2007, comprising a total of 5,893 metres in 50 drill holes. Silver and gold assay grades reported using 4-acid digestion methods were used as the basis for the assay database. A block model was constructed using Gemcom Software (GEMS) with a block size of 10 x 10 x 5 metres. No rotation was applied to the model. Grades for silver and gold were interpolated into the blocks using the Ordinary Kriging (OK) algorithm.

 

Wireframe models were constructed of the topographic surface and the two principal mineralized zones identified by the authors. The topographic digital terrain model (DTM) was used to clip the mineralized zones at surface, and rock codes assigned to both the blocks and the sample composites. The mineralized zone wireframe shapes were constructed from geological knowledge of the deposit and through the use of a 15 g/t silver lower cut-off constraint. Results of the estimation are provided in Table 14.1.

 

Table 14.1: Previous Estimate for the Cruz de Mayo Property (May 2011)

 

Classification Resource Silver Contained
Silver
Gold* Contained
Gold*
  T g/t oz g/t oz
Indicated 1,141,000 64.2 2,353,400 0.06 2,300
Inferred 6,065,000 66.5 12,967,100 0.07 13,300

 

Notes:

Conforms to NI 43-101 and CIM definitions for Mineral Resources and Reserves. All numbers are rounded. Mineral Resources that are not Mineral Reserves do not have demonstrated economic viability.

Based on a 30 g/t Ag cut-off grade

*Presented in the 2011 Technical Report.

This estimate is superseded by the mineral resource estimate presented in the current report and should no longer be relied upon.

  

14.2Basis of Current Estimate

 

The Mineral Resource Estimate for the Cruz de Mayo property described below has been prepared by Tetra Tech EBA with Effective Date of August 15, 2015, to conform to the guidelines set forth by National Instrument 43-101, and incorporates terms as defined by the Canadian Institute of Mining, Metallurgy and Petroleum Standards on Mineral Resources and Reserves: Definitions and Guidelines. Tetra Tech EBA estimated mineral resources for the Project to incorporate additional drill data acquired after 2007 drilling program. Since the timing of the last estimate, SilverCrest drilled an additional 74 holes (9,304.8 metres), and collected a total 4,764 samples up to the end of 2012. Table 14.2 provides a breakdown of all the sample data incorporated into the current estimate. Like the previous estimate, historical data from the 1970 and 1980 Tormex drill programs was excluded due to the inconsistencies and the inability to reproduce the results in the 2006 and 2007 twin drilling program. In total, data excluded from the current estimate comprises 872 metres in 16 drill holes.

 

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Table 14.2: Drill Data Used in Current Estimate

 

Data # of Drill
Holes
# of Samples Metres Sampled
CM05-01 to 03 3 208 376
CM06-04 to 23 20 597 1,221.2
CMRC07-24 to 50 27 1,874 2815
CMRC08-52 to 60 9 233 699
CMRC11-1 to 7 7 305 459.3
CM11-62 to 78 17 675 1,473.8
CMRC12-08 to 29 22 1,684 2,577.3
CMRC12-90 to 97 8 1,077 1,615.5
CM12-79 to 89 11 790 1,335.2
Total 124 7,443 12,572.3

  

Lithological and analytical information from the data listed above were used as the basis for geological interpretation and the construction of the mineralized wireframe solids and block model using Gemcom GEMS v. 6.5 software. Details of the parameters and methodologies used in the estimation process are provided in the following sections.

 

14.3Geological Model

 

Preparation of a geological model for the Cruz de Mayo deposit was completed by Tetra Tech EBA following a detailed review of existing datasets, onsite investigations by Tetra Tech EBA’s qualified persons, and through consultation with SilverCrest personnel.

 

The primary goal of geological modelling is to characterize the geometry and grade of the deposit for use in constraining the interpolation of the block model. Mineralized solids were constructed based on geological interpretation and internal grade domains were identified. Solids were defined using a lower threshold of 15 g/t Ag in order to limit the inclusion of lower grade material. Solid boundaries were extended 50 metres beyond the last point of mineralization in order to define the outer limits of the solids, with an exception being made where continuity of the zone was reasonably established in drillholes spaced on sections spaced in excess of 50 metres along strike or dip.

 

Examination of drill data indicates at least two styles of mineralization are present on the Cruz de Mayo property, as discussed in Section 7.3. Thrust-related mineralization was interpreted on the basis of lithological and structural information provided in the drill logs. This style of mineralization is characterized by a series of semi-continuous quartz and quartz-carbonate veins that typically occupy a broad deformation zone between the rhyolite hanging wall and andesite footwall. While grades appear highly variable, the thrust-related mineralization typically displays a high degree of continuity from section to section. As discussed in Section 7.3, the four interpreted tabular bodies that define this style of mineralization include the Lower, Middle, Upper, and Northwest mineralized zones (Figures14.1 and 14.2).

 

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Figure 14.1: Mineralized Wireframes used to Constrain the Block Model

 

 

Separate mineralized solids were also established for a second style of mineralization found exclusively within the hangingwall of the thrust sequence. A total of two solids determine the extents easterly dipping mineralized zones. As previously discussed, this style of mineralization is narrower than and not as prevalent as the previous. The two solids, the North and Andesite zones, are displayed in Figures 14.3.

 

No solids were created for the steeply dipping ore shoots or deep footwall mineralization, as both styles of mineralization are poorly defined at the present time and no continuity could be established. The addition of these styles of mineralization to the model should continue to be examined in the future as additional exploration information becomes available. The deep footwall mineralization may represent a feeder conduit or stockwork related the mineralizing fluids.

 

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Figure 14.2: Mineralized Wireframes used to Constrain the Block Model

 

 

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Figure 14.3: Mineralized Wireframes for East-Dipping Mineralization used to Constrain the Block Model

 

 

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14.4Descriptive Statistics

 

Mineralized drill intercepts were constrained by the boundaries of the solid in which they occurred, effectively creating a hard boundary for resource modelling. A point area was created for each sample contained within the six modeled mineralized solids. In total, 1,613 raw sample points were identified as representing the mineralization in the deposit and were used in resource estimation. Descriptive statistics for the raw sample points by individual solid are provided in Table 14.3.

 

Table 14.3: Descriptive Statistics for the Raw Cruz de Mayo Drillhole Sample Data

 

Raw Data ALL Upper Middle Lower Andesite North Northwest
Mean 47.60 48.93 56.86 44.61 23.06 32.27 48.78
Standard Error 5.27 6.99 17.31 4.41 6.67 14.03 11.02
Median 13.40 14.00 12.00 17.05 8.95 3.40 11.00
Mode 3.00 3.00 2.00 4.00 0.40 1.00 1.00
Standard Deviation 211.61 122.41 361.43 108.53 48.12 138.88 117.65
Sample Variance 44,780 14,985 13,629 11,777 2,316 19,286 13,840
Kurtosis 290.42 53.48 123.07 87.02 28.10 51.71 22.60
Skewness 15.48 6.41 10.87 8.05 4.88 7.06 4.45
Range 4790.00 1370.00 4790.00 1584.80 317.00 1151.80 836.00
Minimum 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.20 0.00 0.20 0.00
Maximum 4790.00 1370.00 4790.00 1585.00 317.00 1152.00 836.00
Count 1613 307 436 606 52 98 114

 

14.5Compositing

 

Compositing was performed on the samples contained within the individual solid respecting the interpreted contacts, rather than the entire hole. A composite length of 2 metres was chosen based on average sample length and for consistency with the previous estimate. The results were compared with those using one and three metre composite lengths in order to ensure no sample bias was being introduced. Compositing resulted in a total of 1,425 composite samples created, with the breakdown by solid provided in Table 14.4. Each was assigned a rock code that corresponds to the mineralized solid in which it occurred. In addition, each composite was used for the interpolation of grades to block within the individual solid only, placing additional constraints on the model.

  

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Table 14.4: Cruz de Mayo Composite Samples Descriptive Statistics

 

2m Composites (Uncut) ALL Upper Middle Lower Andesite North Northwest
Mean 42.61814035 46.715814 50.7736508 41.0203352 19.0481633 22.1275789 40.9475
Standard Error 4.629742373 6.58545601 15.8969461 3.27622265 4.84194011 7.86732632 8.37548303
Median 13.45 14.525 12.08 17.48 6.18 4.62 11
Mode 0 0.4 0 0 0 1 1
Standard Deviation 174.768942 105.778086 309.071957 75.9207607 33.8935807 76.6812117 87.0405729
Sample Variance 30544.18308 11189.0036 95525.4746 5763.9619 1148.77482 5880.00823 7576.06133
Kurtosis 321.8721874 42.1278557 122.052758 35.5675123 12.9480384 49.181374 15.5798786
Skewness 16.4060958 5.74823517 10.8558691 5.15065905 3.38563277 6.76586783 3.7494454
Range 3766.79 1064.37 3766.79 786.76 184.12 635.26 547.33
Minimum 0 0.2 0 0 0 0 0
Maximum 3766.79 1064.57 3766.79 786.76 184.12 635.26 547.33
Count 1425 258 378 537 49 95 108

 

Figure 14.4: Log Histogram of Uncapped 2 metre Composite Silver Data

 

 

14.6Grade Capping

  

Tetra Tech EBA examined the 2 metre composite data and determined that high grade capping was warranted due to the presence of significant outliers. The histogram for silver grade distribution was used to evaluate the extent of anomalous grades and determine the appropriate capping level (Figure 14.5).

 

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Figure 14.5: Zoom in on Histogram Distribution of 2 metre Composite Data for Silver Assay

 

 

Figure 14.6: Probality Plot of Uncapped 2 metre Composite Silver Data

 

 

Based on the histogram and probability plots, it was determined that 700 g/t silver (99.5th percentile) was appropriate for use as a high grade cap on the overall dataset. Capping strategies were not applied to individual domains. In total, 5 of the 1425 composite samples were capped at a maximum value of 700 g/t silver. As a result of applying a cap, the mean sample grade dropped by 10 g/t while the median remain unchanged (Table 14 .5).

 

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Table 14.5: Descriptive Statistics for 2 metre Composites Capped at 300 g/t Ag.

 

2 m Comps - capped at
300 g/t Ag
All Lower Middle Upper Andesite North Northwest
Mean 36.34 41.15 28.30 45.30 19.05 22.13 40.9475
Median 13.45 17.75 12.00 14.52 6.18 4.62 11
Standard Deviation 79.35 74.54 77.29 93.71 33.89 76.68 87.04
Sample Variance 6,297 5,556 5,973 8,8782 1,148 5,880 7,576
CV 2.18 1.81 2.73 2.06 1.74 3.45 2.11
Kurtosis 38.91 33.9 62.49 26.83 12.95 49.18 15.58
Skewness 5.47 4.87 7.39 4.56 3.39 6.77 3.75
Range 700 700 700 700 184.12 635.26 547.33
Minimum 0 0 0 0 0 0 0
Maximum 700 700 700 700 184.12 635.26 547.33
Count 1425 537 378 258 49 95 108

 

14.7Specific Gravity

 

The previous estimate for Cruz de Mayo used a specific gravity of 2.54, which was based exclusively on analysis of four mineralized core samples done at the University of Sonora. In order to better characterize variation in specific gravity throughout the various geological units that occur on the property, in-situ measurements were collected routinely throughout the 2011 drill program. A total of 237 measurements were taken, distributed amongst the various rock types as outlined in Table 14.6 below.

 

Table 14.6: Distribution of Specific Gravity Measurements by Rock Type

 

  All Andesite Rhyolite Quartz Vein Porphyry
Mean 2.5529 2.5644 2.5308 2.5521 2.5880
Median 2.55 2.56 2.54 2.55 2.6
Mode 2.57 2.53 2.55 2.54 #N/A
Standard Deviation 0.0667 0.0825 0.0508 0.0382 0.0409
Range 0.72 0.72 0.26 0.22 0.09
Minimum 2.27 2.27 2.4 2.45 2.54
Maximum 2.99 2.99 2.66 2.67 2.63
Count 237 111 64 56 5

 

There are some limitations on the data presented above. Specific gravity measurements were mainly restricted to the dominant rocks types in the area, and the sample frequency is broadly reflective of the prevalence of each unit (andesite being the most common followed by rhyolite and the porphyry). The distribution of results may be influenced by the number of samples collected for each unit, with the greatest variance observed in andesite and steadily decreasing in subsequent units with a decrease in total sample count (Figure 14.7).

 

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Figure 14.7: Specific Gravity Results by Rock Type

 

  

The sample data was then segregated by mineralized solid in order to address this sample bias as well as assign an average specific gravity to each individual solid. Of the 237 SG measurements collected during the 2011 program, a total of 81 occurred within the mineralized solids established in the current geological modelling. However, due to the distribution of the 2011 drilling only the three largest mineralized solids actually contained data. The remainder of the samples fall in what can be broadly classified as unmineralized volcanic rocks.

 

The specific gravity results segregated according to mineralized solid are shown in Figure 14.8. Overall, the results from sampling from within the modelled zones display much less variation than those samples collected outside the zone, consistently averaging 2.54 in all three solids. Another potential shortcoming with the specific gravity data is that the second mineralized domain comprising the easterly dipping mineralized solids is not represented in the results. Only one sample from 2011 actually fell within these zones.

 

Based on the information collected in 2011, the specific gravity of 2.54 achieved from the previous laboratory results in 2007 appears reasonable for mineralized material. Given the consistency in results, a value of 2.54 was assigned to all mineralized solids for the purpose of the current resource estimate. In addition, the mean value of 2.56 was assigned to all material falling outside of the mineralized zones.

 

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Figure 14.8: Plot of Specific Gravity by Mineralized Solid

 

  

14.8Geostatistical Analysis – Variographic Study

 

The limited and erratic distribution of sample data in some of the smaller mineralized solids meant that variography was not able to be carried out on an each individual solid basis. Rather, point data for each solid was grouped into like domains and variography performed as a whole. Two domains were established, corresponding to the west and east dipping zones. The west dipping domain provided useable results with the variogram for the major axis illustrated in Figure 14.9 below.

 

Figure 14.9: Variogram of Major Axis for Westerly Dipping Mineralized Zones.

 

 

 

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Even with the grouping of the data, variography did not prove effective for the east dipping domain. As a result, the orientation of the search ellipse for the domain was established by applying a “best fit” model to the geological interpretation. For consistency, the search ranges acquired through variography for the west domain were applied to the ellipse for the east. Parameters for both search ellipses are provided in Table 14.7.

 

Table 14.7. Search Ellipse Parameters

 

Domain Principal
Azimuth
Principal
Dip
Intermediate
Azimuth
Major
Axis
Range
Semi-major
Range
Minor
axis range
West Dip 302 -15.5 27 75 75 25
East Dip 69 -15 159 75 75 25

 

14.9Block Model

 

Tetra Tech EBA created a new block model to encompass the known areas of mineralization at Cruz de Mayo. The model was rotated 45 degrees to the northwest in order to align with the strike direction of the main mineralized domain parallel to the. A block size of 10 m x 10 m x 5 m was chosen based, in part, on the average spacing between drill holes and the estimated minimum bench height achievable on the property. The model extents are primarily a factor of concession boundaries and geometry of the modelled mineralized solids (Table 14.8)

 

Table 14.8: Block Model Geometry

 

Origin 610,950 E
3,340,500 N
1240  m elev
Size 10 X
10 Y
5 Z
Rotation 45
No. of Blocks 60 X
184 Y
68 Z

 

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14.9.1Interpolation and Modelling Parameters

 

Silver and gold grade interpolation for the block model was completed using the inverse distance squared (ID2) methodology of the 2 m composited data. A minimum of 2, and maximum 12 composites were used to define the grade of each block, with no more than 4 composites included from any one drill hole. Interpolation of grades was done according to solid precedence in order to restrict the influence from the surrounding samples. Results of the interpolation for all mineralized blocks are provided in Table 14.9 below.

 

Table 14.9: Interpolation Results

 

Solid # of
Blocks
Average Distance to Nearest
Reporting Composite (m)
Average # of Reporting
Composites
Average # of Drill holes
Lower 7632 38 10 3
Middle 3658 36 10.5 3.5
Upper 3178 38 10.8 3
Andesite 598 35 8.6 3
North 1350 37.7 11 3.3
Northwest 2417 40 9.8 3.2
TOTAL 18833 37.5 10.1 3.2

 

Blocks were assigned percentages according to the portion of their volume that overlapped with a mineralized solid. Gold and silver grades were assigned to all blocks flagged with a lithology code and with percent greater than zero (Figure 14.10.). A block was automatically designated “waste” where no part of a mineralized solid was captured, with no grades assigned.

 

Blocks that overlapped more than 50% with the underground excavation void survey were coded as ADIT and applied a zero density to account for volume loss due to historical mining.

 

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Figure 14.10: Block Model Results, Oblique View Looking Northeast

 

  

14.10Resource Estimate

 

The resource estimate is contemplated as an on-site crushing and heap leach operation with both open pit and underground resource potential providing mineralized material to the processing plant. The project was previously contemplated (EBA, 2011) as a remote open pit operation feeding material to the newly expanded Santa Elena Mine which is no longer contemplated in this report.

 

14.10.1Cut-off grades

 

Several factors were considered in determining the appropriate cut-off grade, including silver and gold prices, reasonably assumed mining costs, metal recoveries, and grades used for comparable deposits in the region. Table 14.10 lists the metal prices and recoveries used for silver equivalent calculation and cut-off grade determination. The Cruz de Mayo deposit occurs at relatively shallow depths, ranging from surface to a few hundred metres.

 

Open pit resources have been constrained through a conceptual pit shell created in Dessault Systemes Geovia Whittle 4X™. The parameters have been based on preliminary studies of geotechnical conditions, similar mines including the Santa Elena mine. Based on the metal prices and recoveries in Table 14.10 a cut-off grade of 45 g/tonne silver equivalent was applied to blocks amenable to open pit mining.

 

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Underground resources have been constrained through applying conceptual underground mining costs and parameters, based on similar mines, resulting in a cut-off grade of 120 g/tonne silver equivalent. In addition, mineralized zones or areas with contiguous zones of blocks above the cut-off grade have been considered for resources.

 

Table 14.10: Input Parameters used for Silver Equivalent Calculation and Grade Cut-Off Determination

 

Parameter Unit Value
Ag price USD/troy ounce 16
Au price USD/troy ounce 1,100
Ag recovery % 55
Au recovery % 75

 

14.10.2Mineral Resource Classification

 

Resources were categorized as indicated or inferred in accordance with CIM definitions. Categories were assigned based on the following criteria:

 

§Indicated – Blocks were assigned to the indicated category if interpolation results were based on a minimum of 3 drill holes, 6 or more reporting composites, and the average distance to nearest reporting composite was less than 30 metres.

 

§Inferred – Blocks not assigned to the indicated category were classified as inferred if the interpolations results were based on input from one or more drill hole and minimum of 2 composites within the specified search radius.

 

None of the blocks were classified as measured for the purposes of the current resource estimate. This is due, in part, to insufficient drill hole spacing over most areas and the inconsistencies identified during the data verification process (Section 12.0).

 

14.10.3Statement of Mineral Resources

 

The results of the mineral resource estimation using the parameters described above are presented in Table 14.11. The resources are reported using a base case cut-off grade of 45 g/t silver equivalent for open pit and 120 g/t silver equivalent for underground resources. Grade and tonnages are included using a variety of cut-off grades in order to show sensitivity to cut-off grade used in the estimation.

 

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Table 14.11: 2015 Cruz de Mayo Mineral Resource Estimate, Effective Date: August 15, 2015

 

 INDICATED

  AgEq
Cut-off
gpt
SG Tonnage Ag
gpt
Au
gpt
AgEq
gpt
Contained
Ag oz
Contained
Au oz
Contained
AgEq oz
Open Pit 60 2.544 338,000 126 0.19 144 1,368,000 2,000 1,563,000
45 2.544 396,000 114 0.17 131 1,457,000 2,000 1,663,000
30 2.544 467,000 102 0.15 116 1,531,000 2,000 1,747,000
                   
Underground 135 2.544 318,000 185 0.27 210 1,889,000 3,000 2,145,000
120 2.544 396,000 170 0.25 193 2,173,000 3,000 2,466,000
105 2.544 492,000 156 0.23 178 2,473,000 4,000 2,812,000
                   
Total
Indicated
  2.544 793,000 142 0.21 162 3,630,000 5,000 4,129,000

 

INFERRED
  AgEq
Cut-off
gpt
SG Tonnage Ag
gpt
Au
gpt
AgEq
gpt
Contained
Ag oz
Contained
Au oz
Contained
AgEq oz
Open Pit 60 2.544 74,000 78 0.30 106 185,000 1,000 252,000
45 2.544 76,000 77 0.29 105 189,000 1,000 257,000
30 2.544 77,000 77 0.29 104 190,000 1,000 257,000
 
Underground 135 2.544 188,000 154 0.27 180 931,000  2,000 1,085,000
120 2.544 249,000 145 0.24 167 1,157,000  2,000 1,336,000
105 2.544 339,000 132 0.22 152 1,436,000  2,000  1,662,000
 
Total
Inferred
  2.544 325,000 129 0.25 152 1,346,000  3,000 1,592,000

 

Notes: 

- Mineral resources are classified by Tetra Tech EBA and conform to NI 43-101 and CIM definitions for resources. Mineral Resources have been estimated from geological evidence and limited sampling;

- Mineral resources are not mineral reserves and do not have demonstrated economic viability. In addition, inferred mineral resources are highly speculative and have a high degree of uncertainty. It cannot be assumed that any part of the inferred resources will be upgraded to a higher category with additional work;

- AgEq calculations incorporate metal prices of US$ 16/oz Ag and US$ 1,100/oz Au, metal recoveries of 55% Ag and 75% Au for a Ag:Au metal value ratio of 93.75;

- Tonnage and contained ounces have been rounded to the nearest thousand; and

- Mineral Resources for Cruz de Mayo are reported using a base case of 45 gpt AgEq cut-off for open pit resources and 120 gpt AgEq for underground resources. Cut-off grades were estimated from metal prices and recoveries used for AgEq calculation and mining costs from similar mining projects.

 

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Images capturing the block model with the open pit and underground resources are shown below in figures 14.11 and 14.12. Blocks are shown subject to a 45 g/t AgEq cut-off, only contiguous zones of blocks with grade >120 g/t AgEq that are below the open pit are reported as underground resources.

 

Figure 14.11: Cross Section Showing Block Model and Open Pit Resources, Looking Northwest

 

 

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Figure 14.12: Cross Section Showing Block Model and Underground Resources (Blocks >120gpt), Looking Northwest

 

 

The grade and tonnage curve indicates that the deposit is highly sensitive to the cut-off grade being applied. The open pit curve is shown for blocks that lie within the Whittle pit. The graphs show a steep decline in tonnage with a generally consistent increase in average grade with increasing AgEq cut-off grades (Figure 14.13).

 

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Figure 14.13: Grade-Tonnage Curve for Open Pit Resources

 

 

Figure 14.14: Grade-Tonnage Curve for Underground Resources

 

 

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14.11Resource Validation

 

Validation of the resource model was done by visual comparison of block grades with drill intercepts on section, and through examining the results of grade modelling along individual vertical and plan sections to check for a global bias in the ID2 model. Vertical sections were generated at 25 metre intervals and horizontal plan maps at 5 metre intervals. Grade models were run using the using ID3, ID5, and Nearest Neighbor methods and then compared to the overall average grade of composites in the mineralized solids for the same section using swath plots (Figures 14.15 and 14.16). The total number of blocks was also included on the plots for reference.

 

Figure 14.15: Swath Plot of Plan Sections

 

 

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Figure 14.16: Swath Plot of Vertical Sections

 

 

The plots generally show a good correlation between the various methods employed, especially at lower silver grades. The plot of average composite grades for the section show sporadic distribution, likely, due in large part to drillhole spacing. However, the general trends follow the interpolation results, especially in the horizontal sections. Overall, the consistency between models appears to indicate the original model is valid, and the ID2 method unbiased.

 

15.0MINERAL RESERVE ESTIMATES

 

There are currently no mineral reserves established for the Cruz de Mayo Property.

 

16.0Mining METHODS

 

Not applicable.

 

17.0Recovery Methods

 

Not applicable.

 

18.0PROJECT INFRASTRUCTURE

 

Not applicable.

 

19.0MARKET STUDIES AND CONTRACT

 

Not applicable.

 

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20.0ENVIRONMANTAL STUDIES, PERMITTING AND SOCIAL OR COMMUNITY IMPACT

 

Not applicable.

 

21.0CAPITIAL AND OPERATING COSTS

 

Not applicable.

 

22.0eCONOMIC aNALYSIS

 

Not applicable.

 

23.0aDJACENT PROPERTIES

 

There are no producing or advanced stage projects adjacent to Cruz de Mayo, however, the concessions are completely surrounded by numerous concessions with registered owners including a subsidiary of Teck Resources Limited and Peñoles. The information that Tetra Tech EBA has is that Teck Resources have been undertaking exploration in the area for several years and that they have no interest in precious metals such as silver of gold except when found within ore extracted for copper smelting. No information pertaining to the Peñoles interest was available.

 

24.0Other Relevant Data and information

 

No relevant data to discuss.

 

25.0INTERPRETATION AND CONCLUSION

 

The Cruz de Mayo property is host to a near-surface, low-sulphidation epithermal silver deposit, located in Sonora, Mexico. Additional drilling on the property warranted a re-examination of the previous Mineral Resource Estimate reported in 2007 and 2011, which is part of this 43-101 report. The estimate completed by Tetra Tech EBA contemplates an autonomous heap leach operation with both open pit and underground resource potential which varies from the previous approaches. The estimate shows a significant upgrade in resources from the inferred to the indicated categories, while reducing the overall tonnage from the previous estimate.

 

25.1Key Risks and Opportunities

 

1.Continuity of grade and thickness is a potential problem (i.e. twin drilling results). Lack of reproducibility of results, even between recent twinned holes.

 

2.As indicated by historical metallurgical work, silver metal recoveries are variable due to silver mineral speciation and effective grain sizing; grade cut-offs applied in this report are based on conservative estimates using low range recovery factors and also by incorporation of ICP analytical data rather than the more aggressive 4-acid digestion methods to suit potential conditions of a heap leach operation rather than a milling operation.

 

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3.Samples reported in certain areas were obtained exclusively by 4 acid digestion. This method has been shown to have a positive bias on silver values and may not be an accurate representation of actual silver grades.

 

4.Although considered volumetrically insignificant, historical excavation volumes from adits Uno and Dos are approximate, and no volumes have been estimated for adits Tres and Cuatro; some high grade material currently included as part of the open pit mineral resource estimate may have been removed from previous mining in these areas, this would have to be confirmed by additional investigation.

 

26.0RECOMMENDATIONS

 

The following recommendations are suggested for further work at Cruz de Mayo;

 

§Evaluation of nearby potential acquisitions for expansion of resource.

 

§Carry out more metallurgical work to characterize silver speciation, help determine appropriate analytical digestion methods for sample analysis, and to fine optimal recoveries for a chosen processing method.

 

§Resampling or twinned hole programs in areas with assays obtained exclusively with 4 acid digest.

 

§Increase drillhole spacing density in areas with potential to host high-grade shoots.

 

§Conduct regional exploration drilling for expansion of existing resources and to test for additional mineral potential in the area.

 

The following budget is suggested;

 

Table 26.1: Cruz de Mayo, Sonora, Mexico - Proposed Budget

 

Recommendation Future Work Estimated Cost
Phase I (12 months)
Land Acquisition Acquire additional concessions adjacent property $20,000.00
Drilling Drill new target area for estimated 1,200m of drilling $180,000.00
Analysis Geochemical analysis of drill samples $20,000.00
Total cost Phase I $220,000.00
     
Phase II (Future)*
Additional Drilling Infill drilling program of estimated 5,000m $750,000
Analysis Geochemical analysis of drill samples $75,000
Metallurgical Test Work Amenability to leaching $50,000
Resource Estimation Modeling and analysis $50,000
Total cost Phase II $925,000

 

* Based on results and success of Phase I  

 

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REFERENCES

 

Aguirre-Díaz, G., and McDowell, F., 1991, The volcanic section at Nazas, Durango, Mexico, and the possibility of widespread Eocene volcanism within the Sierra Madre Occidental: Journal of Geophysical Research, v. 96, p. 13,373–13,388.

 

Aguirre-Díaz, G., and McDowell, F., 1993, Nature and timing of faulting and synextensional magmatism in the southern Basin and Range, central-eastern Durango, Mexico: Geological Society of America Bulletin, v. 105, p. 1435–1444.

 

Alaniz-Alvarez and Nieto-Samaniego, A.F., 2007, the Taxco-San Miguel de Allende fault system and the Trans-Mexican Volcanic Belt: Two tectonic boundaries in central Mexico active during the Cenozoic, in Alaniz-Alvarez, S.A and Nieto-Samaniego, A.F., ed., Geology of Mexico: Celebrating the Centenary of the Geological Society of Mexico: Geological society of America special Paper 422, p. 301-316.

 

Anderson, T. A., and Schmidt,V. A., 1983, The evolution of Middle America and the Gulf of Mexico-Caribbean Sea during Mesozoic time: Geological Society of America Bulletin, v. 9, p. 941–966.

 

Barr, P.J.F, Chow, J., Allard, G. and Wallis., C.S. 2011. NI 43-101 Technical Report Reserve Update for the Santa Elena Open Pit and Preliminary Assessment for the Santa Elena and Cruz de Mayo Expansion Project Sonora, Mexico. Prepared for SilverCrest Mines Inc., Effective Date; April 1st, 2011.

 

Campa, M. F., and P., Coney, 1983, Tectonostratigraphic terranes and mineral resources distribution in Mexico: Canadian Journal of Earth Sciences, v. 20, p. 1040–1051.

 

Ferrari, L. Valencia-Moreo, M., Bryan, S., (2007), Magmatism and tectonics of the Sierra Madre Occidental and its relation with the evolution of the western margin of north America, p. 1-29; in Geology of Mexico: Celebrating the Centenary of the Geological Society of Mexico, The Geological Society of America, Special Paper 422, 2007, edited by Susana A. Alaniz-Alvarez and Angel F. Nieto-Samaniego; 465pp.

 

Fier, E.N, and Wallis, C.S., 2007, Technical Report On The Cruz De Mayo Property, Sonora Mexico, Prepared For SilverCrest Mines Inc. December 10, 2007.

 

Fier, E. N., 2009, Technical Report On The Santa Elena Property, Sonora Mexico, Prepared For SilverCrest Mines Inc., February 15, 2009.

 

Johnson, C. M., 1991, Large-scale crust formation and lithosphere modification beneath middle to late Cenozoic calderas and volcanic fields, Western North-America: Journal of Geophysical Research, v. 96, p. 13485–13507.

 

Nieto-Samaniego, A.F., Alaniz-Alvarez, S.A., and Camprubi, A. (2007), Mesa Central of Mexico: Stratigraphy, structure, and Cenozoic tectonic evolution, p. 41-70; in Geology of Mexico: Celebrating the Centenary of the Geological Society of Mexico, The Geological Society of America, Special Paper 422, 2007, edited by Susana A. Alaniz-Alvarez and Angel F. Nieto-Samaniego; 465pp.

 

Rogers, John J.W et.al 2004. Continents and Supercontinents. Chapter 6. p85.

 

Wark, D. A., Kempter, K. A., and McDowell, F. W., 1990, Evolution of waning subduction-related magmatism, northern Sierra Madre Occidental, Mexico: Geological Society of America Bulletin, v. 102, p. 1555–1564.

 

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CERTIFICATE OF QUALIFIED PERSON

 

 78 


 

Exhibit 99.2

 

Certificate of Qualified Person 

P. James F. Barr

 

 

I, P. James F. Barr, P.Geo, do hereby declare that:

 

1)I currently reside in Kelowna, British Columbia, Canada, and am currently employed as Senior Geologist by Tetra Tech EBA Inc., with office address at 9th floor, 1066 W Hastings Street, Vancouver, British Columbia.
2)I hold a Bachelors of Science with Honours from the University of Waterloo (2003), Ontario, Canada, with a major in Environmental Science, Earth Science and Chemistry and I have practiced as an exploration and resource geologist in Canada, Africa and Mexico since 2003.

3)I am a member in good standing in the Association of Professional Engineers and Geoscientists of British Columbia (APEGBC), member #35150.
4)I am a co-author and Qualified Person responsible for the preparation of the Technical Report entitled:

 

“Mineral Resource Estimate for the

Cruz de Mayo Property, Sonora, Mexico

NI 43-101 Technical Report

Prepared For SilverCrest Mines Inc.

and SilverCrest Metals Inc.”

Release Date: August 24th, 2015

Effective Date: August 15, 2015

 

5)I am responsible for all sections of the Technical Report.
6)As a Qualified Person for this report, I have read the National Instrument 43-101 and Companion Policy and confirm that this report has been prepared in compliance to National Instrument 43-101.
7)I visited the Cruz de Mayo property on two separate occasions between May 2011 and May 2012, and also visited the Cruz de Mayo core storage facility on October 15-16, 2012.
8)I have worked on and visited numerous epithermal, skarn and geologically related properties in this and other regions of Mexico, and have been conducting Mineral Resource Estimates for more than 5 years.
9)I am independent of the Company, as independence is described in Section 1.5 of the National Instrument 43-101. In addition, I am currently not a shareholder of the Company nor am I directly entitled to financially benefit from its success.
10)Prior to this report, I was co-author to the Technical Report entitled “Mineral Reserve Update for the Santa Elena Property and Preliminary Economic Assessment for Cruz de Mayo, Sonora, Mexico (May 2011) by EBA Engineering Consultants Ltd (now Tetra Tech EBA Inc).
11)To the best of my knowledge, information and belief, as of the Effective Date of the report, the parts of the Technical Report for which I am responsible contain all scientific and technical information that is required to be disclosed to make the Technical Report not mis-leading.

 

Dated this 24th of August, 2015

 

Original signed and sealed by  
“P. James F. Barr”  
   
P. James F. Barr, P.Geo  
Senior Geologist, Tetra Tech EBA Inc.  

 

 

 



  

Exhibit 99.3

 

 

I, P. James F. Barr, P.Geo, do hereby consent to the public filing of the technical report prepared for SilverCrest Mines Inc. (the “Company”) entitled

 

“MINERAL RESOURCE ESTIMATE FOR THE

CRUZ DE MAYO PROPERTY, SONORA, MEXICO

 

NI 43-101 TECHNICAL REPORT

 

PREPARED FOR SILVERCREST MINES INC.

AND SILVERCREST METALS INC.”

 

dated August 24th, 2015, and effective August 15th, 2015 (the “Technical Report”), and to extracts from, or a summary of, the Technical Report in the news release of the Company dated August 27th, 2015 (the “News Release”) and the joint information circular (the “Circular”) of the Company dated August 24th, 2015.

 

I also confirm that I have read the News Release and the Circular and that these documents fairly and accurately represent the information in the Technical Report for which I am responsible.

 

Dated this 27th day of August, 2015.

 

Original signed and sealed by  
“P. James F. Barr”  
   
P. James F. Barr, P.Geo  
Senior Geologist, Tetra Tech EBA. Inc.