Fura wrote in an operational update that its mechanised fleet at Coscuez includes a total of 12 mini-dumpers, one electrohydraulic jumbo drilling machine, three scoop trams and three tractors.

The firm launched the mechanisation process in August 2019 to focus on narrow vein mining to increase production capacity.

In October 2019, the company also begun the development of three underground declines from the main Lapaz level to intersect the inferred resource body in the Santana, Ayata and the Miguel sectors. The total development in these sectors is projected to run for 8,704 meters.

The mine has 3 million tonnes of inferred mineral resources, with a grade of 2.0 carats per tonne and an estimated life of mine of 30 years, according to company statements.   

A new 10 t/hr pilot washing plant was fully commissioned in 2019, and is being operated by an all-female crew, under a special initiative with local workers.

Fura said two international consultants, Bisa and MiningOne, have been retained to complete technical studies. The first is a geotechnical study for rock support and mining methods, and the second on the design of current and mid-term ventilation system.

Due to COVID-19 travel restrictions, an inaugural Colombian emerald auction that was scheduled in Antwerp, Belgium for May was cancelled.