Idaho Strategic Resources Finds Yttrium-Rich Rare Earth Deposit in Idaho

Idaho Strategic Resources announced on July 23 that its Diamond Creek rare earth project in Idaho has revealed zones of heavy rare earth mineralization rich in yttrium. The findings come from new drilling and surface sampling efforts.

The surface sampling identified rare earth mineralization across four areas along a 3.2-kilometer geological trend. Average total rare earth oxide (TREO) concentrations in the samples were approximately 1.8%, with heavy rare earth oxides (HREO) exceeding 2000 ppm (parts per million). Yttrium concentrations were notable, surpassing 1300 ppm.

Previous work at the Lucky Gem area, part of the Diamond Creek project, included a 32-meter surface channel sample in 2022 that averaged 1.5% TREO and approximately 2300 ppm HREO, with yttrium around 1600 ppm. Drill hole DC 22-8 from the same year intersected 11.3 meters averaging 1.5% TREO and over 2500 ppm HREO, including about 1700 ppm yttrium.

Company executives highlighted that yttrium is a key discovery, as it is one of the more difficult heavy rare earth elements to source outside of China. Yttrium has applications in superconducting materials, high-performance alloys, and advanced ceramics. Idaho Strategic Resources plans further geological mapping and mineralogical studies in 2026 to assess the project's potential.