Providing the essential building blocks underpinning advanced technologies
Our assets in development
From semiconductors to solar, fibre optics, and advanced lighting, the world’s most precise technologies depend on high purity quartz (HPQ).
First Quartz is advancing two HPQ deposits in British Columbia, Mt. Rose and Armstrong, that will anchor a secure, sustainable source of the material essential to the next generation of advanced technologies.
Mt. Rose
North American HPQ deposit with purity levels comparable to Spruce Pine
Mt. Rose is among only a handful of deposits worldwide capable of producing semiconductor crucible-grade HPQ. Independent testing confirms purity exceeding 99.998% SiO₂ post-refinement, with impurity levels comparable to Spruce Pine, the industry’s global benchmark.
Advancement is well underway. A 40-tonne bulk sample has been excavated and is being processed through a pilot plant, generating data to inform downstream plant design and produce qualification samples for potential customers.
The recently completed NI 43-101 resource report will be followed by a reserve report and pre-feasibility study in early 2026. Additional drilling, environmental baseline studies, and full plant engineering are in progress, laying the groundwork for a mine permit in 2026 and production in 2027.
With these steps, Mt. Rose is advancing from validation toward qualified production, positioned to become a critical new source of crucible-grade HPQ.
Armstrong
Recently acquired HPQ deposit that is chemically and geologically comparable to Mt. Rose
Armstrong is an HPQ deposit located just 15 km from Mt. Rose. Early testing confirms that post-refinement purity exceeds 99.998% SiO₂, with geological and chemical characteristics mirroring those of Mt. Rose.
The proximity of the two deposits allows for shared infrastructure and consistent product quality. Insights from Mt. Rose’s pilot plant processing are directly informing Armstrong’s development plan, supporting the path from validation to production.
In 2026, a comprehensive drill program will be conducted, with samples to be tested, processed, and validated to support resource classification. A NI 43-101 reserve report is expected in the first half of 2026. Environmental baseline and permitting work are underway, including First Nations engagement and scoping surveys.
Together, Armstrong and Mt. Rose form a reliable dual-asset foundation capable of supplying crucible-grade HPQ at scale.