Field-indicated lithium-bearing hard-rock material presented conservatively while accredited laboratory qualification remains pending.
Accredited laboratory analysis will determine the appropriate ceramic, industrial, or battery pathway before buyer engagement.
LIBS (Laser-Induced Breakdown Spectroscopy) provides rapid elemental analysis but is not equivalent to certified laboratory analysis. No certified assay currently exists for lithium from this operation.
Battery-grade qualification requires laboratory analysis with ICP-OES or ICP-MS from an accredited facility. Lithium pricing varies dramatically by end-use — ceramic-grade vs. battery-grade commands vastly different prices.
| Grade / Form | USD / tonne |
|---|---|
| Spodumene 6% Li₂O | ~$600–900 |
| Petalite 4% Li₂O | ~$300–500 |
| Lithium carbonate (battery-grade) | ~$10,000–15,000 |
| Lithium hydroxide (battery-grade) | ~$12,000–18,000 |
Source: Fastmarkets, Shanghai Metals Market. Prices highly volatile.