Sand mining company Brilliant Sands Inc. said that initial test results indicating high-quality proppant sand deposits are confirmed at the McClelland Lake sand property. The area, in Alberta, Canada, has a continuous exploration program, the company said Aug. 6.

An extensive surface sampling and near-surface geophysical survey was conducted. Initial results suggest the potential for at least two sizable deposits. The samples in the most recent studies are visually consistent with those collected during 2014 and reaffirm the potential for high-crush and high-purity silica, Brilliant Sands said.

The findings from Loring Labs' analysis of the samples in 2014 confirmed silica contents up to 98% and exhibited high degrees of both roundness and sphericity. As such, the development potential of these silica-rich sands for high quality proppants is excellent, the company added.

Further analysis will better determine silica sand distribution, quality and potential deposit size. The results will be used to plan the next phase of the property's exploration, which will include deeper mechanized drilling and backhoe test pitting. That phase will focus on resource delineation in at least two areas with potential for mine development. Permit applications for this next phase of exploration are in preparation, Brilliant Sands said.

There are multiple options for viable frack sand and silica sand mining sites within the company’s land holdings, Marc J. Andrews, president and CEO, said.

Brilliant Sands Inc. is based in Reno, Nev.