EX-99.1 2 exhibit99-1.htm TECHNICAL REPORT FOR THE GUANACEVI MINES, DURANGO STATE, MEXICO Endeavour Silver Corp.: Exhibit 99.1 - Filed by newsfilecorp.com


ENDEAVOUR SILVER CORP.

 

NI 43-101 TECHNICAL REPORT
RESOURCE AND RESERVE ESTIMATES
FOR THE
GUANACEVI MINES PROJECT
DURANGO STATE
MEXICO

 

Report Date: March 30, 2012
Effective Date: December 31, 2011

 

 


Report By

William J. Lewis, BSc., P.Geo.
Charley Z. Murahwi, M.Sc., P.Geo., FAusIMM
Ing. Alan J. San Martin, MAusIMM (CP)

 

SUITE 900 - 390 BAY STREET, TORONTO ONTARIO, CANADA M5H 2Y2
Telephone (1) (416) 362-5135 Fax (1) (416) 362 5763




Table of Contents

    Page
     
1.0 SUMMARY 1
1.1 INTRODUCTION 1
1.2 LOCATION AND PROPERTY DESCRIPTION 2
1.3 OWNERSHIP 2
1.4 HISTORY 3
1.5 GEOLOGY AND MINERALIZATION 5
1.6 EXPLORATION PROGRAM 5
1.6.1 Surface Exploration Program 5
1.6.2 Mine Area Exploration Program 6
1.6.3 2012 Exploration Program 7
1.7 2011 MINERAL RESOURCE ESTIMATE 7
1.7.1 Mineral Resource Statement 7
1.7.2 Assumptions and Parameters 8
1.7.3 Methodology 8
1.8 2011 MINERAL RESERVE ESTIMATE 9
1.8.1 Mineral Reserve Statement 9
1.8.2 Mineral Reserve Parameters 9
1.8.3 Definitions and Classification 10
1.9 OPERATIONAL DATA 10
1.10 CONCLUSIONS AND RECOMMENDATIONS 12
1.10.1 Conclusions 12
1.10.2 Recommendations 12
     
2.0 INTRODUCTION 14
     
3.0 RELIANCE ON OTHER EXPERTS 18
     
4.0 PROPERTY DESCRIPTION AND LOCATION 19
4.1 LOCATION 19
4.2 OWNERSHIP AND PROPERTY DESCRIPTION 19
4.3 MINERAL TENURE 20
4.3.1 Property Agreements 23
4.3.2 Access Agreements 29
4.4 LICENCES, PERMITS AND ENVIRONMENT 29
4.4.1 Safety 29
4.4.2 Environment 31
     
5.0 ACCESSIBILITY, CLIMATE, LOCAL RESOURCES, INFRASTRUCTURE AND PHYSIOGRAPHY 32
5.1 ACCESSIBILITY AND LOCAL RESOURCES 32
5.2 PHYSIOGRAPHY AND CLIMATE 32
5.3 INFRASTRUCTURE AND LOCAL RESOURCES 35

i





6.0 HISTORY 36
6.1 GENERAL HISTORY 36
6.2 HISTORICAL AND RECENT EXPLORATION 36
6.3 HISTORICAL MINING AND PRODUCTION 37
6.3.1 Mining 37
6.3.2 Production 39
6.4 MINERAL RESOURCES AND MINERAL RESERVES 43
   
7.0 GEOLOGICAL SETTING AND MINERALIZATION 44
7.1 REGIONAL GEOLOGY 44
7.1.1 Guanaceví Formation 44
7.1.2 Lower Volcanic Sequence 45
7.1.3 Upper Volcanic Sequence 45
7.1.4 Structural Setting 46
7.2 PROJECT GEOLOGY 48
7.2.1 Local Structure 49
7.2.2 Alteration 49
7.3 MINERALIZATION 49
7.3.1 Santa Cruz Vein 50
7.3.2 Footwall Veins 51
   
8.0 DEPOSIT TYPES 52
   
9.0 EXPLORATION 54
9.1 2011 GENERAL EXPLORATION AND DRILLING 54
9.1.1 2011 Mine Exploration 54
9.1.2 2011 Surface Exploration and Drilling 54
9.2 2011 EXPLORATION ACTIVITIES 56
9.2.1 Surface Geological Mapping 56
   
10.0 DRILLING 76
10.1 GENERAL DISCUSSION 76
10.1.1 Drilling Procedures 76
10.1.2 Ballmark Core Orientation System 77
10.1.3 Core Logging Procedures 78
10.2 2011 DRILLING PROGRAM AND RESULTS 79
10.2.1 2011 Surface Drilling Program 79
10.2.2 2011 Underground Drilling Program 110
10.3 MICON COMMENTS 124
   
11.0 SAMPLE PREPARATION, ANALYSES AND SECURITY 125
11.1 SAMPLING METHOD AND APPROCH 125
11.1.1 Sampling Intervals 125
11.1.2 Underground Sampling Methodology 125
11.1.3 Density Determinations 126

ii





11.2 MICON COMMENTS REGARDING ENDEAVOUR SILVER’S SAMPLING PROCEDURES 126
11.3 QUALITY CONTROL / QUALITY ASSURANCE (QA/QC) PROGRAM 127
11.3.1 Sampling 127
11.3.2 Analysis 128
11.3.3 QA/QC Program 130
11.3.4 Surface Exploration Blank Samples 131
11.3.5 Surface Exploration Duplicate Samples 133
11.3.6 Surface Exploration Standard Reference Material 134
11.3.7 Surface Exploration Check Assaying 146
11.4 METALURGICA GUANACEVI (MG) LABORATORY 150
11.4.1 General Discussion on 2011 Procedure Changes 150
11.4.2 MG Laboratory QA/QC and Charts 152
11.5 MICON COMMENTS 160
   
12.0 DATA VERIFICATION 161
12.1 2011 MICON SITE VISIT 161
12.2 DATABASE VERIFICATION FOR THE MINERAL RESOURCE ESTIMATE 161
12.2.1 Review of the In-House Data Protocols 161
12.2.2 Micon Validation of Data and In-House Protocols 164
   
13.0 MINERAL PROCESSING AND METALLURGICAL TESTING 167
   
14.0 MINERAL RESOURCE ESTIMATES 168
14.1 CIM MINERAL RESOURCE DEFINITIONS AND CLASSIFICATIONS 168
14.2 DECEMBER 31, 2011 MINERAL RESOURCE ESTIMATE 170
14.2.1 Mineral Resource Statement 170
14.2.2 Assumptions and Parameters 171
14.3 MINERAL RESOURCE ESTIMATION PROCEDURES 171
14.3.1 Grade Capping of High Grade Assays 171
14.3.2 Tonnage 171
14.3.3 Resource and Grade Estimation 172
14.3.4 Classification 178
   
15.0 MINERAL RESERVE ESTIMATES 180
15.1 CIM MINERAL RESERVE DEFINITIONS AND CLASSIFICATIONS 180
15.2 DECEMBER 31, 2011 MINERAL RESERVE ESTIMATE 181
15.2.1 Mineral Reserve Statement 181
15.2.2 Mineral Reserve Parameters 182
15.2.3 Definitions and Classification 182
   
16.0 MINING METHODS 187

iii





16.1 MINING OPERATIONS 187
16.2 GROUND CONDITIONS 187
16.3 MINING METHOD 189
16.4 PRODUCTION AREAS 190
   
17.0 RECOVERY METHODS 192
17.1 PRODUCTION 192
17.2 MINERAL PROCESSING 192
   
18.0 PROJECT INFRASTRUCTURE 195
18.1 MINE PUMPING, VENTILATION AND ELECTRICAL 195
18.2 TAILINGS DAM 197
   
19.0 MARKET STUDIES AND CONTRACTS 199
   
20.0 ENVIRONMENTAL STUDIES, PERMITTING AND SOCIAL OR COMMUNITY IMPACT 200
20.1 ENVIRONMENTAL STUDIES AND PERMITTING 200
20.2 SOCIAL OR COMMUNITY IMPACT 200
   
21.0 CAPITAL AND OPERATING COSTS 203
21.1 CAPITAL COSTS 203
21.2 OPERATING COSTS 203
   
22.0 ECONOMIC ANALYSIS 204
22.1 INTRODUCTION 204
22.2 TAXES 204
22.3 ECONOMIC ANALYSIS 204
22.4 2012 PRODUCTION FORECAST 204
   
23.0 ADJACENT PROPERTIES 208
23.1 INTRODUCTION 208
23.2 OTHER SILVER/GOLD PRODUCTION ACTIVITY IN THE GUANACEVI MINING DISTRICT 208
   
24.0 OTHER RELEVANT DATA AND INFORMATION 211
   
25.0 INTERPRETATION AND CONCLUSIONS 212
25.1 INTERPRETATION 212
25.1.1 December 31, 2011 Mineral Resource Estimate 212
25.1.2 December 31, 2011 Mineral Reserve Estimate 212
25.2 CONCLUSIONS 213
25.2.1 Mineral Resources and Reserves for the Guanaceví Mines Project 213
25.2.2 Future Potential 213
   
26.0 RECOMMENDATIONS 215
26.1 BUDGET FOR FURTHER WORK 215

iv





26.1.1 Surface Exploration Program 215
26.1.2 Mine Surface and Underground Exploration Programs 217
26.1.3 Micon Comments 223
26.2 FURTHER RECOMMENDATIONS 223
     
27.0 DATE AND SIGNATURE PAGE 224
     
28.0 REFERENCES 225
     
29.0 CERTIFICATES 227

APPENDIX

Appendix 1 Glossary of Mining and Related Terms At end of Report

v



List of Tables

    Page
     
Table 1.1 Guanaceví Exploration Priority Targets – 2012 7
     
Table 1.2 December 31, 2011 Mineral Resource Estimate, Guanaceví Mines Project 8
     
Table 1.3 December 31, 2011 Proven and Probable Mineral Reserve Estimate 9
     
Table 2.1 List of the Abbreviations 15
     
Table 4.1 Guanaceví Mines Concessions Controlled by Endeavour Silver 22
     
Table 4.2 Guanaceví Mines Concessions Controlled by Endeavour Silver in Process of Being Granted Title 23
     
Table 4.3 Summary of Endeavour Silver’s Surface Access Rights 29
     
Table 6.1 Drilling Summary for Santa Cruz Vein Structure at Guanaceví Mines Project (through December, 2010) 37
     
Table 6.2 Summary of the Production for the Guanaceví Property (1991 to 2003) 42
     
Table 6.3 Summary of Production for the Guanaceví Property (2005 through 2011) 42
     
Table 7.1 Generalized Stratigraphic Column in the Guanaceví Mining District 46
     
Table 9.1 Summary of the 2011 Expenditures for the Guanaceví Surface Exploration Program 54
     
Table 9.2 Significant Assays for Rock Sampling in the El Martir Area, San Pedro Sub-District 57
     
Table 9.3 Significant Assays for Rock Sampling in the Santa Isabel-Terremoto- Alajaa and Surrounding Claims 62
     
Table 9.4 Significant Geochemical Results for Rock Sampling in the La Brisa Area 71
     
Table 10.1 Summary for San Pedro Sub-District 2011 Surface Diamond Drilling Program 80
     
Table 10.2 2011 Summary of the Epsilon-Soto Diamond Drilling Results 83
     
Table 10.3 2011 Summary of the La Blanca – Mi Niña Diamond Drilling Results 88
     
Table 10.4 2011 Summary of the Santa Isabel Area Diamond Drilling Results 91
     
Table 10.5 2011 Summary of the San Joaquin Area Diamond Drilling Results 95
     
Table 10.6 Summary for Milache 2011 Surface Diamond Drilling Program 99
     
Table 10.7 Summary of the 2011 Milache Diamond Drilling Results 100
     
Table 10.8 Summary for La Brisa 2011 Surface Diamond Drilling Program 104

vi





Table 10.9

Summary of the Surface Drill Holes Conducted in the Porvenir North Zone 1 Area

110
     
Table 10.10

Summary of the 2011 Underground Drill Holes Porvenir North Central, Santa Cruz Vein

111
     
Table 10.11

Summary of the 2011 Surface Drill Holes Porvenir North Zone 2, Santa Cruz Vein

111
     
Table 10.12

Summary of the 2011 Drill Hole Statistics for the Santa Cruz Mine

117
     
Table 10.13

Summary of the 2011 Drill Hole Statistics for the Alex Breccia Zone

122
     
Table 11.1

Bulk Density Determinations for Mine Samples from Porvenir North and Porvenir Dos

126
     
Table 11.2

Number of Control Samples Used During the 2011 Drilling Program

131
     
Table 11.3

Reference Standards Used for Endeavour Silver’s Drilling Programs

135
     
Table 11.4

Basis for Interpreting Standard Sample Assays

135
     
Table 11.5

Laboratory Performance on Standard Edr-21

136
     
Table 11.6

Laboratory Performance on Standard Edr-22

138
     
Table 11.7

Laboratory Performance on Standard Edr-23

140
     
Table 11.8

Laboratory Performance on Standard Edr-19

142
     
Table 11.9

Laboratory Performance on Standard Edr-28

144
     
Table 11.10

Summary of the Quantities of Control Samples Used for the 2011 Mine Exploration Drilling Program

149
     
Table 11.11

Standard Reference Samples Used for Endeavour Silver’s 2011 Mine Exploration Drilling Programs

150
     
Table 11.12

MG Laboratory Guanaceví Control Samples

154
     
Table 14.1

Measured and Indicated Mineral Resources for the Guanaceví Mines Project as at December 31, 2011

170
     
Table 14.2

Inferred Mineral Resources for the Guanaceví Mines Project as at December 31, 2011

170
     
Table 14.3

Summary of Sample Capping Grades for the Various Veins at Guanacevi

171
     
Table 15.1

December 31, 2011 Proven and Probable Mineral Reserve Estimate, Guanaceví Mines Project

181
     
Table 18.1

Stand-by Electrical Generator Capacity

197
     
Table 18.2

Compressor Capacity

197
     
Table 19.1

Summary of Contracts at the Guanaceví Mines Project

199
     
Table 21.1 2012 Capital Cost Estimates for the Guanaceví Mines Project 203

vii





viii



List of Figures

    Page
     
Figure 4.1

Guanaceví Mines Project Location Map

20
 

 

 
Figure 4.2

Guanaceví Mines Project, Mineral Concessions Map

21
 

 

 
Figure 4.3

2010 National Mine Rescue Team, Placed Second in First Aid and Third Place Overall

30
 

 

 
Figure 4.4

2010 Jorge Rangel Zamorano Silver Helmet Award Presented by the CAMIMEX for Safety

30
 

 

 
Figure 5.1

Light Aircraft used to Access Guanaceví (2011 Micon Site Visit)

33
 

 

 
Figure 5.2

View of the Guanaceví Airstrip upon Approach (2011 Micon Site Visit)

33
 

 

 
Figure 5.3

Partial View of the Town of Guanaceví

34
 

 

 
Figure 5.4

View of the Terrain between the Area of Mine and Mill Facilities at Guanaceví

34
 

 

 
Figure 6.1

Composite Drill Hole Plan Showing the Drill Hole Coverage of the Santa Cruz Vein for the Guanaceví Mines Project

38
 

 

 
Figure 6.2

Long Section Showing Drill Hole Coverage for the Santa Cruz Vein of the Guanaceví Mines Project

38
 

 

 
Figure 6.3

Old Mine Waste Dump Located alongside the Road to the Santa Cruz and Porvenir Mines

39
 

 

 
Figure 7.1

Regional Geology Map for the Guanaceví Mining District

47
 

 

 
Figure 7.2

Guanaceví Mines Project Geology Map

48
 

 

 
Figure 8.1

Alteration Mineral Distributions Within a Low Suphidation System

53
 

 

 
Figure 9.1

Surface Map of the El Martir Area

56
 

 

 
Figure 9.2

Surface Geological Map of the Sultana-Soto Area

60
 

 

 
Figure 9.3

Surface Map of the Santa Isabel and Terremoto Area in Northern Part of the San Pedro Sub-District

62
 

 

 
Figure 9.4

Surface Geological Map of the Terremoto Claim Area in the Northern Part of the San Pedro Sub-District

64
 

 

 
Figure 9.5

Surface Map of the Alajaa Area

65
 

 

 
Figure 9.6

Concession Map Showing the New Claims in the La Brisa Area

67
 

 

 
Figure 9.7

Surface Map of La Brisa Area showing the Veins Currently Identified

68
 

 

 
Figure 9.8

Generalized Cross-Section looking Northwest across the La Brisa Area

69
 

 

 
Figure 9.9

Surface Map showing Silver Values for Rock Samples Collected in the La Brisa Area

72

ix





Figure 9.10

Surface Map showing Gold Values for Rock Samples Collected in the La Brisa Area

73
     
Figure 9.11

Surface Map showing Mercury Values for Rock Samples Collected in the La Brisa Area

74
     
Figure 9.12

Surface Map showing Arsenic Values for Rock Samples Collected in the La Brisa Area

74
     
Figure 9.13

Surface Map showing Antimony Values for Rock Samples Collected in the La Brisa Area

75
     
Figure 10.1

The Ballmark Core Orientation System

77
     
Figure 10.2

Permanent Core Orientation Information is Created on a Soft Disc of the Ballmark System

78
     
Figure 10.3

Century’s Configuration for Drill Hole Data Collection for the Guanaceví Mines Project

78
     
Figure 10.4

Surface Drill Hole Map of the Epsilon – Soto Area, San Pedro Sub- District, Guanaceví

82
     
Figure 10.5

Longitudinal Section (looking West) showing Intersection Points on the Soto Vein

82
     
Figure 10.6

Cross-Section through Hole ST0-1 Drilled to Test the Soto Vein in the Epsilon-Soto Area

84
     
Figure 10.7

Cross-Section through Holes EPS1-1B, EPS1-2, EPS1-3 and EPS1- 4B Drilled to Test the Soto Vein in the Epsilon Area

85
     
Figure 10.8

Surface Drill Hole Map of the Veronica Area, San Pedro Sub-District, Guanaceví

86
     
Figure 10.9

Longitudinal Section (Looking Southeast) showing Intersection Points on the La Blanca Vein

87
 

 

 
Figure 10.10

Cross-Section through Holes VE1-3 and BC-08 Drilled to Test the La Blanca Structure and Vein Interepts in the La Blanca-Mi Niña Area

88
 

 

 
Figure 10.11

Surface Map showing Completed Holes (Black) in the Santa Isabel Area

89
 

 

 
Figure 10.12

Longitudinal Section (Looking Northeast) showing Intersection Points on Santa Isabel Vein

90
 

 

 
Figure 10.13

Cross-Section through Holes SI02-1, SI02-2, SI02-3 and SI02-4 Drilled to Test the Santa Isabel Vein in the Santa Isabel Area

92
 

 

 
Figure 10.14

Cross-Section through Holes SI09-1 and SI09-2 Drilled to Test the Santa Isabel Vein in the Santa Isabel Area

93
 

 

 
Figure 10.15

Surface Map Showing Completed Holes (Black) in the San Joaquin – Ale Area

94

x





Figure 10.16

Longitudinal Section (Looking Northeast) showing Intersection Points on the San Joaquin Vein

96
     
Figure 10.17

Cross-Section through Holes JQ09-1, JQ09-2, JQ09-3 and JQ09-4 Drilled to Test the San Joaquin Vein in the San Joaquin Area

97
     
Figure 10.18

Cross-Section through Hole JQ00-1 Drilled to Test the San Joaquin Vein in the San Joaquin Area

98
     
Figure 10.19

Surface Map showing Completed Drill Holes from 2008 (Black) and 2011 (Blue) in the Milache Area

99
     
Figure 10.20

Longitudinal Section (Looking Northeast) showing Intersection Points on the Santa Cruz Vein

101
     
Figure 10.21

Cross-Section through Holes MCH1.5-1 and MCH1.5-2 Drilled to Test the Santa Cruz Vein in the Milache Area

102
     
Figure 10.22

Cross-Section through Holes MCH-10 and MCH-11 Drilled to Test the Santa Cruz and Vein Intercepts in the Milache Area

103
     
Figure 10.23

Surface Map showing Completed Holes in the La Brisa Area

104
     
Figure 10.24

Longitudinal Section (Looking Northeast) showing Intersection Points on the Leona Vein

106
     
Figure 10.25

Longitudinal Section (Looking East) showing Intersection Points on the La Brisa Vein

107
     
Figure 10.26

Cross-Section through Holes LE10-1 and LE10-2 Drilled to Test the Leona Vein in the La Brisa Area

108
     
Figure 10.27

Cross-section through Holes BR01-1 and BR01-2 Drilled to Test the La Brisa Vein in the La Brisa Area

109
     
Figure 10.28

Longitudinal showing the 2011 Drill Hole Intersection Points for the North Porvenir Zone 1 (Looking Northeast)

111
     
Figure 10.29

Longitudinal Section Indicating the Drill Intersections and Results for the Porvenir North Central Area

112
     
Figure 10.30

Longitudinal Section Indicating the Drill Intersections and Results for the Porvenir North Zone 2 Area (Looking Northeast)

112
     
Figure 10.31

Cross-Section through 2011 Drill Hole PS-633-02 (Infill Hole) and Other Holes on the Same Section

113
     
Figure 10.32

Cross-Section through Drill Holes PS-605-01 and PS-606-01, as well as Previous Holes on the Section

114
     
Figure 10.33

Cross-Section through Drill Hole PS-611-01, as well as Previous Holes on the Section

115
     
Figure 10.34

Cross-Section through Drill Hole PU-554-01 in the Porvenir North Central Area

116

xi





Figure 10.35

Longitudinal Section with Drill Hole Intersections for the Santa Cruz Mine

118
 

 

 
Figure 10.36

Cross-Section of Drill Holes PS-477-01 and PU-480-01 in the Santa Cruz Mine

119
 

 

 
Figure 10.37

Cross-Section of Drill Hole PU-473-01 in the Santa Cruz Mine

120
 

 

 
Figure 10.38

Cross-Section through Drill Holes PU-456-01, PU-460-01 and PU- 463-01 in the Santa Cruz Mine

121
 

 

 
Figure 10.39

Longitudinal Section of the Breccia Alex Zone with the 2011 Drilling Intersection Points

122
 

 

 
Figure 10.40

Cross-Section through Drill Hole BAS-391-03 in the Alex Breccia Zone

123
 

 

 
Figure 11.1

Flow Sheet for Core Sampling, Sample Preparation and Analysis

131
 

 

 
Figure 11.2

Control Chart for Gold Assays from Blank Samples

132
 

 

 
Figure 11.3

Control Chart for Silver Assays from Blank Samples

132
 

 

 
Figure 11.4

Original versus Duplicate Graph for Gold Assays from Duplicate Samples

133
 

 

 
Figure 11.5

Original versus Duplicate Graph for Silver Assays from Duplicate Samples

134
 

 

 
Figure 11.6

Control Chart for Silver Assays from the Standard Reference Sample Edr-21

136
 

 

 
Figure 11.7

Control Chart for Copper Assays from the Standard Reference Sample Edr-21

136
 

 

 
Figure 11.8

Control Chart for Lead Assays from the Standard Reference Sample Edr-21

137
 

 

 
Figure 11.9

Control Chart for Zinc Assays from the Standard Reference Sample Edr-21

137
 

 

 
Figure 11.10

Control Chart for Silver Assays from the Standard Reference Sample Edr-22

138
 

 

 
Figure 11.11

Control Chart for Copper Assays from the Standard Reference Sample Edr-22

138
 

 

 
Figure 11.12

Control Chart for Lead Assays from the Standard Reference Sample Edr-22

139
 

 

 
Figure 11.13

Control Chart for Zinc Assays from the Standard Reference Sample Edr-22

139
 

 

 
Figure 11.14

Control Chart for Silver Assays using the Calculated Mean and Standard Deviation from the Standard Reference Sample Edr-22

140

xii





Figure 11.15

Control Chart for Gold Assays from the Standard Reference Sample Edr-23

141
 

 

 
Figure 11.16

Control Chart for Silver Assays from the Standard Reference Sample Edr-23

141
 

 

 
Figure 11.17

Control Chart for Copper Assays from the Standard Reference Sample Edr-23

141
 

 

 
Figure 11.18

Control Chart for Silver Assays from the Standard Reference Sample Edr-24

142
 

 

 
Figure 11.19

Control Chart for Copper Assays from the Standard Reference Sample Edr-24

142
 

 

 
Figure 11.20

Control Chart for Lead Assays from the Standard Reference Sample Edr-24

143
 

 

 
Figure 11.21

Control Chart for Zinc Assays from the Standard Reference Sample Edr-24

143
 

 

 
Figure 11.22

Control Chart for Gold Assays from the Standard Reference Sample Edr-28

144
 

 

 
Figure 11.23

Control Chart for Silver Assays from the Standard Reference Sample Edr-28

144
 

 

 
Figure 11.24

Control Chart for Copper Assays from the Standard Reference Sample Edr-28

145
 

 

 
Figure 11.25

Control Chart for Lead Assays from the Standard Reference Sample Edr-28

145
 

 

 
Figure 11.26

Control Chart for Zinc Assays from the Standard Reference Sample Edr-28

145
 

 

 
Figure 11.27

Scatter Diagram of the Gold Check Samples

146
 

 

 
Figure 11.28

Scatter Diagram of the Silver Check Samples

147
 

 

 
Figure 11.29

Scatter Diagram of the Copper Check Samples

147
 

 

 
Figure 11.30

Scatter Diagram of the Lead Check Samples

148
 

 

 
Figure 11.31

Scatter Diagram of the Zinc Check Samples

148
 

 

 
Figure 11.32

2011 Blank Samples Assayed at the MG Laboratory for Silver

153
 

 

 
Figure 11.33

2011 Blank Samples Assayed at the MG Laboratory for Gold

153
 

 

 
Figure 11.34

Summary of the 2011 Silver Assay Results for Control Sample GCVI_E Assayed at the MG Laboratory

154
 

 

 
Figure 11.35

Summary of the 2011 Silver Assay Results for Control Sample GCVI_F Assayed at the MG Laboratory

155

xiii





Figure 11.36

Summary of the 2011 Gold Assay Results for Control Sample GCVI_E Assayed at the MG Laboratory

155
 

 

 
Figure 11.37

Summary of the 2011 Gold Assay Results for Control Sample GCVI_F Assayed at the MG Laboratory

156
 

 

 
Figure 11.38

Scatterplots of the 2011 Pulp Reassays for Silver (left) and Gold (right)

157
 

 

 
Figure 11.39

Scatterplots of the Reject Reassays for Silver (left) and Gold (right)

157
 

 

 
Figure 11.40

Scatterplots of the Assay Results for the Mine Duplicate Samples for Silver (left) and Gold (right)

157
 

 

 
Figure 11.41

Scatterplots of the Assay Results for the Surface Stockpile Duplicate Samples for Silver (left) and Gold (right)

158
 

 

 
Figure 11.42

Scatterplots of the Assay Results for the Pulp Duplicates Assayed at the Stewart Laboratory

158
 

 

 
Figure 11.43

Scatterplots of the Assay Results for the Reject Duplicates Assayed at the Stewart Laboratory

159
 

 

 
Figure 11.44

Scatterplots of the Assay Results for the Pulp Duplicates Assayed at the Guanajuato Laboratory

159
 

 

 
Figure 11.45

Scatterplots of the Assay Results for the Reject Duplicates Assayed at the Guanajuato Laboratory

159
 

 

 
Figure 12.1

Surface Drill Operating During the December, 2011 Micon Site Visit

162
 

 

 
Figure 12.2

Site Geologist Measuring Core Orientation Angles

165
 

 

 
Figure 14.1

Longitudinal Section showing the Resources for the Sants Cruz Vein on the Milache Concession

173
 

 

 
Figure 14.2

Figure 14.2 : Longitudinal Section showing the Resources for the Footwall Milache Vein

173
 

 

 
Figure 14.3

Figure 14.3 : Longitudinal Section showing the Resources for the Hanging Wall Milache Vein

174
 

 

 
Figure 14.4

Figure 14.4 : Longitudinal Section showing the Resources for the Epsilon-Soto Vein

174
 

 

 
Figure 14.5

Longitudinal Section showing the Resources for the Footwall Soto Vein

175
 

 

 
Figure 14.6

Longitudinal Section showing the Resources for the Hanging Wall Soto Vein

175
 

 

 
Figure 14.7

Longitudinal Section showing the Resources for the Epsilon Vein

176
 

 

 
Figure 14.8

Longitudinal Section showing the Resources for the San Joaquin Vein

176
 

 

 
Figure 14.9

Longitudinal Section showing the Resources for the La Blanca Vein

177

xiv





Figure 14.10

Longitudinal Section showing the Resources for the Mi Niña Vein

177
 

 

 
Figure 15.1

Reserves and Resources for Porveir North Zone 1

183
 

 

 
Figure 15.2

Reserves and Resources for Porveir North Zone 2

183
 

 

 
Figure 15.3

Reserves and Resources for Porveir North Zone 2 North

184
 

 

 
Figure 15.4

Reserves and Resources for Porveir 2

184
 

 

 
Figure 15.5

Reserves and Resources for Porveir Cuatro

185
 

 

 
Figure 15.6

Reserves and Resources for Santa Cruz

185
 

 

 
Figure 15.7

Longitudinal Section Showing Distribution of Reserves and Resources for the Whole Guanaceví Mine

186
 

 

 
Figure 15.8

Plan View of the Guanaceví Mine Showing Distribution of Reserves and Resources

186
 

 

 
Figure 16.1

Organization Chart for the Guanaceví Mines Project as of December 31, 2011

188
 

 

 
Figure 17.1

View of Leach Tanks and CCD circuits

192
 

 

 
Figure 17.2

30”x42” Jaw Crusher

193
 

 

 
Figure 17.3

Merrill-Crowe Circuit

194
 

 

 
Figure 18.1

Panoramic View of the Infrastructure between the Santa Cruz and Porvenir Mines

196
 

 

 
Figure 18.2

Portal for the Porvenir Dos Mine

196
 

 

 
Figure 18.3

Portal for the Porvenir Cuatro Mine

196
 

 

 
Figure 18.4

Aerial View of the Plant and Tailings Facilities of the Guanaceví Mines Project

198
 

 

 
Figure 18.5

December, 2011 Construction of the Two Filter Presses for the Dry Stacking of Tailings

198
 

 

 
Figure 20.1

New Mine Ambulance Purchased in 2011

201
 

 

 
Figure 20.2

2011 New Fire Fighting Equipment

201
 

 

 
Figure 22.1

Longitudinal Section of the Deep Porvenir North Mine (Looking Northeast) showing the Mine and Development Plans through December, 2012

205
 

 

 
Figure 22.2

Longitudinal Section of the Central Porvenir North Mine (Looking Northeast) showing the Mine and Development Plans through December, 2012

206
 

 

 
Figure 22.3

Longitudinal Section of the Santa Cruz Mine (Looking Northeast) showing the Mine and Development Plans through December, 2012

206

xv





Figure 22.4

Longitudinal Section of the Porvenir Dos Mine (Looking Northeast) showing the Mine and Development Plans through December, 2012

207
 

 

 
Figure 22.5

Longitudinal Section of the Porvenir Cuatro Mine (Looking Northeast) showing the Mine and Development Plans through December, 2012

207
 

 

 
Figure 23.1

Adjacent Mineral Properties/Mines in the Guanaceví Mining District

209
 

 

 
Figure 23.2

Small Privately Owned Headframe Located just off the Endeavour Silver Property

210
 

 

 
Figure 26.1

Longitudinal Section and Plan View of the 2012 North Porvenir Central Drilling Program

218
 

 

 
Figure 26.2

Longitudinal Section and Plan View of the 2012 Santa Cruz Drilling Program

219
 

 

 
Figure 26.3

Longitudinal Section and Plan View of the 2012 Ramp 4115 Drilling Program

220
 

 

 
Figure 26.4

Longitudinal Section and Plan View of the 2012 Alex Breccia Drilling Program

221
 

 

 
Figure 26.5

Longitudinal Section and Plan View of the 2012 La Prieta Drilling Program

222

xvi



1.0      SUMMARY

1.1      INTRODUCTION

Endeavour Silver Corp. (Endeavour Silver) has retained Micon International Limited (Micon) to provide an independent resource and reserve estimation for the Guanaceví Mines project in the State of Durango, Mexico. This report is an update of the previous Micon Technical Report entitled “NI 43-101 Technical Report, Audit of the Resource and Reserve Estimates for the Guanaceví Mines Project, Durango State, Mexico” and dated March 15, 2011. The 2011 report was posted by Endeavour Silver on the System for Electronic Document Analysis and Retrieval (SEDAR). SEDAR is the filing system developed for the Canadian Securities Administrators (CSA).

This report constitutes an independent estimation of the December 31, 2011 mineral resources and reserves of the Guanaceví Mines project. The estimate was conducted to ensure that the mineral resources and reserve discussed herein complied with the Canadian Institute of Mining, Metallurgy and Petroleum (CIM) standards and definitions required under Canadian National Instrument 43-101 (NI 43-101) regulations.

This report also comments on the propriety of the continuing studies and budget for the Guanaceví Mines project.

The term Guanaceví Mines property, in this report, refers to the entire area covered by the mineral license, while the term Guanaceví Mines project refers to the area within the mineral license on which the exploration programs are being conducted.

This report follows the format and guidelines of Form 43-101F1, Technical Report for National Instrument 43-101, Standards of Disclosure for Mineral Projects, and its Companion Policy NI 43-101CP, as amended by the Canadian Securities Administrators and which came into force on June 30, 2011. The June 30, 2011 format and guidelines of Form 43-101F1 and its Companion Policy NI 43-101CP replace the former format, guidelines and companion policy which was dated December 23, 2005.

Micon does not have nor has it previously had any material interest in Endeavour Silver or related entities. The relationship with Endeavour Silver is solely a professional association between the client and the independent consultant. This report is prepared in return for fees based upon agreed commercial rates and the payment of these fees is in no way contingent on the results of this report.

This report is intended to be used by Endeavour Silver subject to the terms and conditions of its agreement with Micon. That agreement permits Endeavour Silver to file this report as a Technical Report with the CSA pursuant to provincial securities legislation. Except for the purposes legislated under provincial securities laws, any other use of this report, by any third party, is at that party’s sole risk.

1



This report includes technical information which requires subsequent calculations or estimates to derive sub-totals, totals and weighted averages. Such calculations or estimations inherently involve a degree of rounding and consequently introduce a margin of error. Where these occur, Micon does not consider them to be material.

The conclusions and recommendations in this report reflect the authors’ best independent judgment in light of the information available to them at the time of writing. The authors and Micon reserve the right, but will not be obliged, to revise this report and conclusions if additional information becomes known to them subsequent to the date of this report. Use of this report acknowledges acceptance of the foregoing conditions.

1.2      LOCATION AND PROPERTY DESCRIPTION

The Guanaceví Mines project is located within the Municipality of Guanaceví in the State of Durango, Mexico, near its northern border with the state of Chihuahua. The property is accessed by travelling from the city of Durango, located 260 kilometres (km) southeast. Durango has a modern airport with daily flights to and from Mexico City and portions of the United States. The Guanaceví Mines project is located on the edge of the Sierra Madre, a series of rugged mountains with higher points reaching 3,300 metres (m) above sea level. The Guanaceví Mines project is located at approximately 105°58'20"W longitude and 25°54'47"N latitude.

The Guanaceví mining district covers an area measuring approximately 5 km northeast-southwest by 10 km northwest-southeast and contains more than 50 silver/gold mines. Although only three of the mines are presently operating, there is considerable mining experience available in the area.

1.3      OWNERSHIP

Endeavour Silver holds the Guanaceví Mines project through its 100% owned Mexican subsidiary Endeavour Gold Corporation S.A. de C.V. (Endeavour Gold). Endeavour Gold holds the project through its two 100% owned subsidiaries Minera Plata Adelante S.A. de C.V. (Minera Plata Adelante) and Refinadora Plata Guanaceví S.A. de C.V. (Refinadora Plata Guanaceví). At present, the project is comprised of 40 mineral concessions. The mineral concessions are not all contiguous and vary in size, for a total property area of 4,076.1977 ha. The annual 2012 concession tax for the Guanaceví properties is approximately 300,756 Mexican pesos (pesos), which is equal to about US $23,756 at an exchange rate of 12.66 pesos to US $1.00 dollar.

On February 9, 2009, Endeavour Silver entered into a mining exploration agreement with Minerales Monte Blanco S.A. de C.V. (Minerales Monte Blanco), represented by Sergio Enrique Silva Franco, on the El Porvenir Cuatro and La Brisa concessions totaling approximately 55.5518 ha. The El Porvenir Cuatro and La Brisa agreement was an option to earn 100% of these properties over two years for a total consideration of US $700,000.

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In February, 2010, Endeavour Silver exercised its option to purchase the El Porvenir Cuatro and La Brisa properties and has now acquired a 100% interest in these properties by paying a total consideration to the vendors of US $100,000 cash and 136,054 shares on signing the option agreement, and an additional 71,428 common shares and US $160,000 cash on the early exercise of the option to purchase.

In July 2010, Endeavour Silver acquired 100% interest in the Elizabeth (17.0 ha) and El Calvario (1.3 ha) properties in Guanaceví. The purchase price of these properties was US $50,000. The El Calvario property is situated in the central part of San Pedro, adjacent to the historic, high grade Noche Buena mine and transected by the Noche Buena vein. The Elizabeth property is situated approximately 1 km east of Endeavour Silver’s Porvenir mine.

In June, 2011, Endeavour Silver acquired the La Brisa and La Brisa 2 properties (90 ha), located approximately 10 km southeast of Endeavour's active Porvenir silver-gold mine in the Guanaceví district. The option agreement requires Endeavour Silver to make US$220,000 in cash payments over a 3 year period.

In 2011, Endeavour Silver also staked several new concessions (2,746 hectares) surrounding the La Brisa and La Brisa 2 properties to cover possible extensions of the La Brisa veins and several other recently discovered veins.

In June, 2011, Endeavour Silver also acquired an option to purchase four small properties within the San Pedro sub-district. The El Cambio properties lie about 6 km northwest of the Porvenir mine and along strike from the historic El Soto and Nueva Australia high grade silver mines. The El Cambio option agreement gives Endeavour Silver the right to purchase the El Cambio, La Onza, San Nicolas and Ampliacion de San Nicolas properties (37 hectares) for $150,000 in cash payments over a 2 year period.

In addition to the mineral rights, Endeavour Silver has agreements with various private ranch owners and local Ejidos (El Hacho and San Pedro) that provide access for exploration and exploitation purposes.

1.4      HISTORY

It is not known if the indigenous peoples or the Spanish colonists first began mining in the Guanaceví district but mining extends back to at least 1535 when the mines were first worked by the Spanish. By the start of the 18th century, Guanaceví had become an important mining centre in the Nueva Vizcaya province of Nueva España (New Spain), as reported by Alexander von Humboldt in his travels through Nueva España. However, the Guanaceví mining district is not as well known today.

The Guanaceví mining district and the Guanaceví Mines project area are riddled with mine openings and old workings, in a somewhat haphazard fashion near surface, representing the earliest efforts at extraction, and more systematic at depth, which is indicative of later, better organized and engineered mining. Associated with these openings and workings is a number of ruins, which represent the mine buildings, chapels and residences of the inhabitants and indicate the wealth of the mining district during its past.

3



The vast bulk of the material which has been extracted from underground operations through the tunnels, shafts and winzes is scattered over the hillsides in waste dumps and beneath the foundations of the ruins and modern buildings. Historically, individual veins or deposits had separate owners and, in the case of some of the larger veins or deposits, had several owners along the strike length which resulted in a surfeit of adits and shafts and very inefficient operations.

During the late sixteenth century silver production accounted for 80% of all exports from Nueva España, although, by the mid-seventeenth century, silver production collapsed when mercury, necessary to the refining process, was diverted to the silver mines of Potosí in present day Bolivia. Collapse of the seventeenth century mining led to widespread bankruptcy among the miners and hacienda owners; however, in the latter half of the seventeenth century silver mining began to recover in Nueva España. By the start of the 18th century, Guanaceví had become an important mining centre in the Nueva Vizcaya province.

The peasant uprisings of 1810 to 1821 were disastrous to the Mexican mining industry with both the insurgents’ soldiers and royalist troops all but destroying the mining production in Mexico, and the Guanaceví mining district was not spared during this period.

The district has experienced several periods of bonanza-grade production, including the operation of a mint in 1844. The Guanaceví mining district, however, reached its greatest period of activity at the start of the 20th century, when five processing plants were in operation and more than 15 mines were in production.

J.R. Southworth in his 1905 volume entitled “The Mines of Mexico” mentions that Guanaceví is a very rich district and “that many of the largest capitalists of New York have enormous interests in its mines”. Southworth mentions that the Barradán, Hacienda Wilson, El Carmen, Nueva Australia and Hacienda Avila were all good mines and properties within the Guanaceví mining district. However, Southworth also mentioned that “considering the large number of once famous properties in Guanaceví, there are comparatively few now in operation. The cessation of development has been due to various causes, though usually not from lack of ore.”

The vast majority of production came prior to the 1910 Mexican Revolution with the Guanaceví mining district being known for its high silver grades. Previous reports noted that the official production records indicate that a total value of 500 million pesos, or approximately 500 million ounces of silver and silver equivalents, with a present day value of about US $3.25 billion, had been extracted from this mining district. This makes the Guanaceví district one of the top five silver mining districts in Mexico on the basis of past production.

4



The extent of historical exploration on the property is relatively unknown. Prior to management by Endeavour Silver, production was coming from three mines without the benefit of any systematic exploration drilling, geological mapping or mine planning.

1.5      GEOLOGY AND MINERALIZATION

The Guanaceví mineral deposits occur as an epithermal low sulphidation, quartz-carbonate, fracture-filling vein hosted by a structure that trends approximately N45°W and dips 55° southwest. The fault and vein comprise a structural system referred to locally as the Santa Cruz vein structure or Santa Cruz vein fault. The Santa Cruz vein itself has been traced for 5 km along the trend and averages approximately 3.0 m in width. High-grade mineralization in the system is not continuous, but occurs in steeply northwest-raking shoots up to 200 m in strike length. A second vein is located sub-parallel and subjacent (located in the footwall) to the Santa Cruz vein but is less continuous. The footwall vein is economically significant in the Porvenir Dos zone and in the northern portion of deep North Porvenir.

The Santa Cruz vein is a silver-rich structure with lesser amounts of gold, lead and zinc. Based on historic production, mineralization has averaged 500 grams per tonne (g/t) silver and 1 g/t gold over a 3 m true width. The minerals encountered are argentite-acanthite with limited gold, galena, sphalerite, pyrite and manganese oxides. Gangue minerals noted are barite, rhodonite, rhodochrosite, calcite, fluorite and quartz. The mineralization down to Level 6 in the Santa Cruz mine is mainly oxidized with a transition zone of oxides to sulphides occurring between Levels 6 to 8, although some sulphide ore was mined above Level 6. Mineralization exhibits evidence of episodic hydrothermal events which generated finely banded textures. High-grade mineralization in the district is commonly associated with multiple phases of banding and brecciation. In the Porvenir Dos area and in the deeper portion of North Porvenir, a footwall-hosted vein is associated with the Santa Cruz vein structure. In both areas, this footwall vein is either within Guanaceví Formation footwall rocks or is at the structural contact between the Guanaceví Formation and Lower Volcanic Sequence andesite. It is banded to brecciated quartz plus carbonate and contains local scatterings (< 1%) of sulphides (pyrite>sphalerite >galena>chalcopyrite) and rare pods (< 50 cm) of sulphides.

1.6      EXPLORATION PROGRAM

1.6.1      Surface Exploration Program

In 2011, exploration drilling at Guanaceví focused on exploring the Santa Cruz vein structure to the north of the Porvenir mine, including on the Milache claim, and to the south, in the Santa Cruz and Alex Breccia mines. Any new mineralization found in these areas could be added to the mine plan for development and production. Exploration drilling also focused on discovering new high-grade silver-gold-base metal mineralized zones in the San Pedro sub-district located in the northern part of the Guanaceví district, as well as in the La Brisa area, situated in the southern part.

5



A total of 1,183 rock and soil samples were collected on the Guanaceví property during the 2011 geological mapping program. In 2011, surface and underground geological mapping and sampling were completed on the Martir, El Soto and adjoining claims in the San Pedro area, as well as the Santa Isabel, Terremoto, Alajaa and neighbouring claims in the San Pedro sub-district.

In 2011, Endeavour Silver acquired an option on the La Brisa and La Brisa 2 properties (90 ha), located approximately 10 km southeast of Endeavour Silver's active Porvenir silver-gold mine. Endeavour Silver has also secured through staking several new claims which include La Brisa 3, La Brisa 4, La Brisa 4 Fraccion 1, La Brisa 5 and La Gloria. These new claims cover 2,877 hectares and surround the La Brisa and La Brisa 2 properties in order to cover possible extensions of recently identified veins.

The Brisa veins have received little exploration work historically. This is probably because surface exposures of veins are typically narrow and low grade. Only shallow pits have been excavated on the veins, without any apparent production. The veins have never been drill tested.

In 2011, surface diamond drilling commenced in the La Brisa area using one drill rig. By mid-December, Endeavour Silver had completed a total of 988.15 m in five holes. Exploration is ongoing in this area.

1.6.2      Mine Area Exploration Program

In 2011, surface drilling was continued in the mine area in order to increase the understanding of the extent of the mineralization within the Santa Cruz vein in the Porvenir North Zone 1 area, thereby potentially increasing the resources and reserves at the mine. By the end of 2011, a total of 7 drill holes had been completed, totalling 3,586.50 m.

At the Santa Cruz mine, an underground drilling program was conducted to cut the Santa Cruz vein at different depths from the previous exploration area, down to the unexploited areas below the old workings. The goal of the program was to demonstrate that economic mineralization could continue at depth in order to increase the resources and possibly reserves in this portion of the mine. In addition, a number of infill drill holes were designed to verify the information from previous drilling. In total, 16 holes were drilled in the Santa Cruz underground program.

As a check against the Alex Breccia results which were obtained from previous drilling by regional exploration personnel and the results obtained from direct sampling, a decision was made to initiate drilling in the Alex Breccia zone towards the north extent of the property. This drilling was conducted to determine whether or not the resources could continue to be increased in this area.

Micon has reviewed the 2011 exploration programs and concludes that the programs were conducted according to the exploration best practices as outlined by the CIM and with a good QA/QC program in place. It is Micon’s opinion that the data acquired by Endeavour Silver through its exploration programs for the Guanaceví Mines project can be used in estimating the mineral resources and ultimately the mineral reserves.

6



1.6.3      2012 Exploration Program

In 2012, Endeavour Silver plans a follow-up surface exploration program focused on several of the new discoveries made in the San Pedro sub-district, Milache and La Brisa, near Endeavour Silver's mining operation at Guanaceví. Endeavour Silver will also conduct a regional exploration program to investigate several new prospective targets within the district. The mine will continue to conduct both surface and underground drilling in order to further define the mineralization in the operational area. The primary long-term goal of this program is to expand reserves and resources and to identify properties for potential acquisition in the Guanaceví district for future growth.

Table 1.1 summarizes the planned 2012 exploration budget for the Guanaceví Mines project.

Table 1.1
Guanaceví Exploration Priority Targets – 2012

Project Area 2012 Program Budget
Holes Metres Samples US $
Surface Exploration Drilling
San Pedro 10 3.000 1,200 490,000
Milache 12 6,000 2,400 1,010,000
La Brisa 15 6,000 2,600 1,019,200
Guanaceví Regional Exploration 5 1,500 1,000 366,900
Subtotal 42 16,500 7,200 2,886,100
Mine Operations Exploration Drilling
Porvenir North 6 1,511 ---- 226,704
Santa Cruz 7 2,142 ---- 321,279
Ramp 4115 27 1,290 ---- 219,230
Alex Breccia 26 10,272 ---- 1,540,736
La Prieta 8 2,113 ---- 316,918
Subtotal 74 17,328 ---- 2,624,867
Total 116 33,828 ---- 5,510,967

Table provided by Endeavour Silver Corp.

1.7      2011 MINERAL RESOURCE ESTIMATE

1.7.1      Mineral Resource Statement

The mineral resources for the Guanaceví Mines project as of December 31, 2011 are summarized in Table 1.2. The resources are exclusive of the mineral reserves.

7



Table 1.2
December 31, 2011 Mineral Resource Estimate, Guanaceví Mines Project

Category Tonnes Silver (g/t) Gold (g/t) Silver (oz) Gold (oz) Silver Eq (oz)
Measured (M)            
Indicated (I) 2,849,000 217 0.42 19,922,300 38,800 22,056,300
Total M and I 2,849,000 217 0.42 19,922,300 38,800 22,056,300
             
Inferred 2,013,000 217 0.40 14,050,900 26,200 15,491,900
             

1.

Mineral resources which are not mineral reserves do not have demonstrated economic viability. The estimate of mineral resources may be materially affected by environmental, permitting, legal, title, taxation, sociopolitical, marketing, or other relevant issues.

   
2.

There has been insufficient exploration to define the inferred resources as an indicated or measured mineral resource. It is uncertain if further exploration will result in upgrading them to an indicated or measured mineral resource category.

Micon believes that at present there are no known environmental, permitting, legal, title, taxation, socio-economic, marketing or political issues which could adversely affect the mineral resources estimated above.

1.7.2      Assumptions and Parameters

The mineral resource is based on the following assumptions and parameters:

  • Minimum mining width – 1.5 m.

  • Silver equivalent – 55:1, based on prices of US $1,650/oz for gold and US $30/oz for silver.

  • Cut-off grade – 100 g/t silver equivalent.

1.7.3      Methodology

Resources for the mining areas (Santa Cruz, Porvenir North, Porvenir Dos and Porvenir Cuatro) of the Guanaceví Mines project have been estimated by Micon using the 3D modelling technique and the inverse distance cubed (ID3) method for interpolating grade. Resources from the exploration areas (Milache, San Joaquin, La Blanc-Mi Niña and Epsilon-Soto) have been estimated by Endeavour Silver using the polygonal/sectional method and have been subsequently audited by Micon.

Mineral resources were classified on the basis of the location of blocks relative to the data used to interpolate the block grade according to the following criteria:

  • Measured mineral resources apply to those resource blocks where grade, density, shape and physical characteristics are so well established to allow the appropriate application of technical and economic parameters, to support production planning. Currently there are no Measured resource blocks at Guanaceví.

8



  • Indicated mineral resources refer to those resource blocks/areas where the geological framework, continuity and grade of mineralization are sufficiently understood to support a preliminary feasibility study which will serve as the basis for major development decisions. For the operations, this is applicable to those blocks which have had the historical mine sampling superseded by Endeavour Silver’s subsequent channel sampling programs which, in conjunction with the confidence gained from the historical reconciliations, provide an acceptable level of confidence in the sample grades and resultant block estimates. All of the modelled Indicated resource blocks for the existing operations are within a maximum distance of 35 m from any data point, including development, chip samples or drill hole intercepts. For the exploration division’s polygonal resource estimates, a 25 m search radius is used in the definition of Indicated resources.

  • Inferred mineral resources are those blocks/areas where confidence in the estimate is insufficient to enable an evaluation of the economic viability worthy of public disclosure. For the operations, these are outlined and estimated based on the mine’s interpretation and confidence in the historical sampling results. For the exploration division’s polygonal resource estimates, a 50 m search radius is used in the definition of Inferred resources.

1.8      2011 MINERAL RESERVE ESTIMATE

1.8.1      Mineral Reserve Statement

The mineral reserves for the Guanaceví Mines project as of December 31, 2011 are summarized in Table 1.3.

Table 1.3
December 31, 2011 Proven and Probable Mineral Reserve Estimate

Category Tonnes Silver (g/t) Gold (g/t) Silver (oz) Gold (oz) Silver Eq (oz)
Proven 773,000 304 0.65 7,555,500 16,200 8,446,500
Probable 799,000 231 0.39 5,935,400 10,100 6,490,900
             
Total Proven & Probable 1,572,000 267 0.52 13,490,900 26,300 14,937,400
             

1.8.2      Mineral Reserve Parameters

The parameters used for the Guanaceví mineral reserves are as follows:

  • Cut-off - 158 g/t Ag.
  • Minimum width - 2 m.
  • Gold price - US$1,000 per oz.
  • Silver price - US$16 per oz.
  • Gold recovery (overall) – 83.67%.
  • Silver recovery (overall) – 76.63%.

9



1.8.3      Definitions and Classification

Mineral reserves are derived from measured/indicated resources after applying the economic parameters stated above. The Guanaceví reserves have been derived and classified according to the following criteria:

  • Proven mineral reserves are the economically mineable part of the Measured resource where development work for mining and information on processing/metallurgy and other relevant factors demonstrate that economic extraction is achievable. For Guanaceví, this applies to blocks located within approximately 10 m of existing development and for which Endeavour Silver has a mine plan in place.

  • Probable mineral reserves are those Measured or Indicated mineral resource blocks which at the time of reporting are considered economic and for which Endeavour Silver has a mine plan in place. For Guanaceví, this is applicable to blocks located a maximum of 35 m either vertically or horizontally distant from development

1.9      OPERATIONAL DATA

Since January 1, 2007, Endeavour Silver has been in control of the day-to-day mining operations at the Guanaceví Mines project. Endeavour Silver assumed control of the mining operations from a local mining contractor in order to allow for more flexibility in operations and to continue optimizing the costs.

On December 31, 2011, the Guanaceví Mines project had a roster of 401 employees. The mine operates on two 10-hour shifts, 7 days a week, whereas the mill operates on a 24/7 schedule.

A conventional cut and fill mining method is employed with the stopes generally 150 m long and 20 m high. Access to the stoping areas is provided by a series of primary and secondary ramps located in the footwall. The ramps have grades from minus 15% to plus 12%, with plus or minus 12% as standard. The cross-sections are 4 m by 4 m for the primary ramps and 3.5 m by 3.5 m for the secondary ramps.

In the upper parts of the mine, stope access is by short (10 m to 40 m) cross-cuts from the ramp to the vein/stope. These cross-cuts are generally 3.5 m by 3.5 m in cross-section and are usually driven down at minus 18% to intersect with the stope. As the stope advances up-dip on the vein, the back is taken down in these cross-cuts to maintain access until the cross-cut reaches a maximum inclination of 15%.

In the lower parts of the mine (below the water table) stope access is by 90 m long cross-cuts to the vein/stope. The cross-cuts are generally 3.0 m by 3.5 m in cross-section and are driven at plus 1% to intersect the stope (for water drainage). As the stope advances up-dip on the vein, the back is taken down in these cross-cuts to maintain access until the cross-cut reaches a maximum inclination of plus 15%.

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For the year ending December 31, 2011, silver production was 2,659,956 oz and gold production was 6,845 oz. Plant throughput for 2011 was 363,076 tonnes at an average grade of 311 g/t silver and 0.69 g/t gold. In 2011, mill recoveries averaged 73.3% for silver and 84.8 % for gold.

The mill was originally built in 1970 by the Mexican government and designed to custom mill ores from various mines in the district. The mill has undergone a number of upgrades since 1970, and further upgrades since Endeavour Silver took over the day-to-day operations.

In 2011, the mill processed ore from the mines of Porvenir Cuatro, Porvenir 2, Porvenir North and Santa Cruz, as well as purchased (third party) ore. In 2011, the grinding circuit had an average capacity of 1,000 t/d. The metallurgical complex continued to process the Bolañitos (Guanajuato) flotation concentrate in 2011.

Endeavour Silver has no contracts or agreements for mining, smelting, refining, transportation, handling or sales, that are outside of normal or generally accepted practices within the mining industry. Endeavour Silver has a policy on not hedging or forward selling any of its products. Endeavour Silver produces doré silver-gold bars which it then ships for further refining.

Endeavour Silver holds all necessary environmental and mine permits to conduct planned exploration, development and mining operations on the Guanaceví Mines project.

The cash operating cost of silver produced at the Guanaceví Mines project in fiscal year 2011 was $9.71 per ounce, compared to $8.34 per ounce in 2010. Cash operating cost per ounce of silver is calculated net of gold credits and royalties. On a per tonne of ore processed basis, the cash operating costs in 2011 averaged US $100.35/t compared to US $113.69/t in 2010.

Micon has not undertaken a cash flow analysis for the Guanaceví Mines project, since the estimated mineral reserves are sufficient for only a short term operation. The current budget is based upon a plant throughput of 442,800 t for 2012.

For 2012, Endeavour Silver is forecasting to produce 2.87 million ounces of silver and 7,580 ounces of gold from the Guanaceví Mines project. Plant throughput for 2012 is forecast at 442,800 t at an estimated average grade of 269 g/t silver and 0.63 g/t gold. Recoveries are forecast to average 76.3% and 82.8% for silver and gold, respectively. Plant throughput is based on production from the Porvenir North mine, Porvenir Dos mine and third party ore bought from local miners.

The property has a substantial undeveloped resource potential. Beyond 2012, Endeavour Silver believes that continued exploration and development will lead to the discovery of new resources, and Endeavour Silver actively continues acquiring rights to new properties in the Guanaceví district.

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1.10      CONCLUSIONS AND RECOMMENDATIONS

1.10.1      Conclusions

Micon considers the Guanaceví resource and reserve estimates to conform to the current CIM standards and definitions for estimating resources and reserves, as required under NI 43-101 “Standards of Disclosure for Mineral Projects.” These resources and reserves are the basis for Endeavour Silver’s ongoing mining operations at the Guanaceví Mines project. In Micon’s opinion, there are no significant technical, legal, environmental or political considerations which would affect the extraction and processing of the resources and reserves at the Guanaceví Mines project. However, mineral resources that are not mineral reserves do not have demonstrated economic viability.

Micon believes that the mineral concessions in the Guanaceví mining district controlled by Endeavour Silver continue to be highly prospective both along strike and down dip of the existing mineralization and that further resources could be converted into reserves with additional exploration and development.

Endeavour Silver is in the position of being able to apply modern exploration concepts and technology to one of the major historical mining districts in Mexico which previously had experienced only limited exploration. Micon believes that the property continues to hold the potential for the discovery of deposits of similar character and grade as those currently being exploited or mined in the past, either along the trend of the vein or at depth below the presently exploited areas.

Also, in the case of the Guanaceví Mines project, although a number of mineralized areas have been exploited in the past, improvements in mining techniques have allowed mining to be expanded within the boundaries of previously mined areas and extended into new areas.

Micon is satisfied that Endeavour Silver’s exploration and development objectives for the year ended December 31, 2011 have been met, as evidenced by the continuing discovery of areas of mineralization which have been added to the resources and reserves on the project. Micon believes that the program for further exploration on the Guanaceví Mines project proposed by Endeavour Silver is both warranted and justified, as the potential for the continuing discovery of additional resources is good.

1.10.2      Recommendations

Micon has reviewed Endeavour Silver’s 2012 proposal for further exploration on its Guanaceví Mines property and recommends that Endeavour Silver conducts the exploration program as proposed subject to funding and any other matters which may cause the proposed exploration program to be altered in the normal course of its business activities or alterations which may affect the program as a result of exploration activities themselves.

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Micon makes the following additional recommendations to assist Endeavour Silver in its exploration and resource/reserve estimation processes:

  1)

Micon recommends that future budgets should include modern-day technology sampling tools to improve the quality of the underground samples used for evaluation.

     
  2)

Micon recommends that Endeavour Silver continues to develop an effective reconciliation plan for the Guanaceví Mines project. The ability to be able to reconcile the ore mined and milled on a stope-by-stope basis to the original estimates for the stope will be a critical factor in future resource and reserve estimations. The reconciliations will form the basis of reviewing dilution estimates, mining loss and gain estimates, and will assist in reviewing the classification categories of the resources.

     
  3)

Micon recommends that Endeavour Silver continues to have its on-site laboratory participate in a proficiency program of round-robin laboratory testing such as the one run by CanMet. This will continue to assist the on-site laboratory in assessing its performance for one or more analytical methods independently of internal quality control. Coupled with this program, a total of between 5% and 10% of the samples submitted to the on-site assay laboratory should continue to be sent out to a secondary accredited laboratory

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2.0      INTRODUCTION

At the request of Mr. Godfrey Walton, President and Chief Operating Officer of Endeavour Silver Corp. (Endeavour Silver), Micon International Limited (Micon) has been retained to provide an independent resource and reserve estimation for the Guanaceví Mines project in the State of Durango, Mexico. This report is an update of the previous Micon Technical Report entitled “NI 43-101 Technical Report, Audit of the Resource and Reserve Estimates for the Guanaceví Mines Project, Durango State, Mexico” and dated March 15, 2011. The 2011 report was posted by Endeavour Silver on the System for Electronic Document Analysis and Retrieval (SEDAR). SEDAR is the filing system developed for the Canadian Securities Administrators (CSA).

This report constitutes an independent estimation of the December 31, 2011 mineral resources and reserves of the Guanaceví Mines project for Endeavour Silver. The estimate was conducted to ensure that the mineral resource and reserve estimates complied with the Canadian Institute of Mining, Metallurgy and Petroleum (CIM) standards and definitions required under Canadian National Instrument 43-101 (NI 43-101) regulations.

The geological setting of the property, mineralization style and occurrences, and exploration history were described in Technical Reports that were prepared by Endeavour Silver (2008), Micon (2007, 2009, 2010, 2011), Range Consulting (2006), Watts, Griffis and McOuat Limited (WGM) (2005), and in various government and other publications listed in Section 28, References. The relevant sections of those reports are reproduced herein.

The Qualified Persons responsible for the preparation of this report and the resource and reserve estimates on the Guanaceví Mines project are William J. Lewis, B.Sc., P.Geo. and Charley Z. Murahwi, P.Geo., FAusIMM, both of whom are senior geologists with Micon based in Toronto, and Ing. Alan J. San Martin, MAusIMM(CP), a mineral resource modeller with Micon based in Toronto. Catherine Dreesbach, P.E., a senior mining engineer with Micon, based in the United States, assisted the team in the mining aspects of the project.

All currency amounts are stated in US dollars or Mexican pesos, as specified, with costs and commodity prices typically expressed in US dollars. Quantities are generally stated in Système International d’Unités (SI) units, the standard Canadian and international practice, including metric tons (tonnes, t) and kilograms (kg) for weight, kilometres (km) or metres (m) for distance, hectares (ha) for area, grams (g) and grams per metric tonne (g/t) for gold and silver grades (g/t Au, g/t Ag). Wherever applicable, any Imperial units of measure encountered have been converted to SI units for reporting consistency. Precious metal grades may be expressed in parts per million (ppm) or parts per billion (ppb) and their quantities may also be reported in troy ounces (ounces, oz), a common practice in the mining industry. Base metal grades may be expressed as a percentage (%). Table 2.1 provides a list of the various abbreviations used throughout this report. Appendix A contains a glossary of mining terms.

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This is Micon’s fifth Technical Report on the Guanaceví Mines project for Endeavour Silver. All the previous reports are posted on SEDAR.

Micon previously visited Endeavour Silver’s Guanaceví Mines project from December 15 to 18, 2006, September 6 to 9, 2008, November 20 to 22, 2009 and June 23 to 25, 2010. Micon’s latest site visit occurred between December 12 and 16, 2011.

Micon was assisted during the visits by a number of employees and consultants working for Endeavour Silver. During the 2006 site visit, one grab sample was taken from an underground muck pile to independently verify the mineralization on the property. Further sampling was not undertaken because the independent verification of the mineralization can be conducted by reviewing Endeavour Silver’s production records for the project.

Charley Murahwi visited the Guanaceví property in 2008, 2009, 2010 and 2011, where the underground mine workings and surface facilities were inspected, and the initial review of the database and block model for the resource and reserve estimate was performed. William Lewis visited the Guanaceví property in 2006 and 2011.

The review of the Guanaceví Mines project has been based on published material researched by Micon, as well as data, professional opinions and unpublished material submitted by the professional staff of Endeavour Silver or its consultants. Much of the data came from reports prepared and provided by Endeavour Silver or its Mexican subsidiary, Endeavour Gold. The review of the Quality Assurance/Quality Control protocols and resource and reserve estimation parameters was conducted during the site visits to the Guanaceví Mines project. Further review of the resource and reserve parameters and the resource and reserve estimates were undertaken in January and February, 2012, upon receipt of the database from Endeavour Silver.

This report follows the format and guidelines of Form 43-101F1, Technical Report for National Instrument 43-101, Standards of Disclosure for Mineral Projects, and its Companion Policy NI 43-101CP, as amended by the Canadian Securities Administrators and which came into force on June 30, 2011. The June 30, 2011 format and guidelines of Form 43-101F1 and its Companion Policy NI 43-101CP replace the former format, guidelines and companion policy which was dated December 23, 2005.

Micon is pleased to acknowledge the helpful cooperation of Endeavour Silver’s management and personnel, all of whom made any and all data requested available and responded openly and helpfully to all questions, queries and requests for material.

Micon does not have nor has it previously had any material interest in Endeavour Silver or related entities or interests. The relationship with Endeavour Silver is solely a professional association between the client and the independent consultant. This report is prepared in return for fees based upon agreed commercial rates and the payment of these fees is in no way contingent on the results of this report.

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This report includes technical information which requires subsequent calculations or estimates to derive sub-totals, totals and weighted averages. Such calculations or estimations inherently involve a degree of rounding and consequently introduce a margin of error. Where these occur, Micon does not consider them to be material.

This report is intended to be used by Endeavour Silver subject to the terms and conditions of its agreement with Micon. That agreement permits Endeavour Silver to file this report as an NI 43-101 Technical Report with the CSA pursuant to provincial securities legislation. Except for the purposes legislated under provincial securities laws, any other use of this report, by any third party, is at that party’s sole risk.

The conclusions and recommendations in this report reflect the authors’ best judgment in light of the information available at the time of writing. The authors and Micon reserve the right, but will not be obliged, to revise this report and conclusions if additional information becomes known to them subsequent to the date of this report. Use of this report acknowledges acceptance of the foregoing conditions.

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3.0      RELIANCE ON OTHER EXPERTS

Micon has reviewed and analyzed data provided by Endeavour Silver, its consultants and previous operators of the property, and has drawn its own conclusions therefrom, augmented by its direct field examination. Micon has not carried out any independent exploration work, drilled any holes or carried out any extensive program of sampling and assaying on the property.

Micon audited Endeavour Silver’s previous December 31, 2010 resource and reserve estimates and the results were published in a Technical Report dated March 15, 2011. The estimates contained in the March, 2011 Technical Report have been superseded by new resource and reserve estimates which have an effective date of December 31, 2011. The December 31, 2011 estimates conform to the presently accepted industry standards and definitions for resource and reserve estimates and are compliant with the CIM definitions required by NI 43-101 and, therefore, are reportable as mineral resources and reserves by Endeavour Silver.

While exercising all reasonable diligence in checking, confirming and testing it, Micon has relied upon Endeavour Silver’s presentation of the project data in formulating its opinion.

Micon has not reviewed any of the documents or agreements under which Endeavour Silver holds title to the Guanaceví Mines project or the underlying mineral concessions and Micon offers no opinion as to the validity of the mineral titles claimed. A description of the properties, and ownership thereof, is provided for general information purposes only. The existing environmental conditions, liabilities and remediation have been described where required by NI 43-101 regulations. These statements also are provided for information purposes only and Micon offers no opinion in this regard.

The descriptions of geology, mineralization and exploration are taken from reports prepared by various companies or their contracted consultants. The conclusions of this report rely on data available in published and unpublished reports and information supplied by the various companies which have conducted exploration on the property, and information supplied by Endeavour Silver. The information provided to Endeavour Silver was supplied by reputable companies and Micon has no reason to doubt its validity.

The maps and tables for this report were either produced by Endeavour Silver or reproduced/derived from reports written for Endeavour Silver and the majority of the photographs were taken by two authors of this report during the Micon site visits in December, 2006, September, 2008, November, 2009, June, 2010 and December, 2011. If the illustrations or tables are derived from other sources, the source is acknowledged below figure or table.

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4.0      PROPERTY DESCRIPTION AND LOCATION

Since January, 2005, the Guanaceví Mines project has been owned and operated by wholly-owned subsidiary companies of Endeavour Silver of Vancouver, Canada.

4.1      LOCATION

The Guanaceví Mines project is located in the northwest portion of the Mexican state of Durango near its border with the state of Chihuahua. The location of the project is shown in Figure 4.1. The project is located 3.6 km from the town of Guanaceví, approximately 260 km northwest of the city of Durango, which is the state capital. The town of Guanaceví also gives its name to the mining district which surrounds it.

The Guanaceví Mines project is located at the approximate UTM coordinates of 401250 east and 2866500 north in zone 14 NAD 27, or 105°58'20"W longitude and 25°54'47"N latitude.

4.2      OWNERSHIP AND PROPERTY DESCRIPTION

The Guanaceví Mines project consists of an industrial complex that includes underground silver-gold mines and a cyanidation ore processing plant in the Guanaceví mining district, Durango State, México. The ore processing facility also comprises a recently commissioned flotation circuit.

The Guanaceví Mines project is located in the Guanaceví mining district which covers an area measuring approximately 5 km northeast-southwest by 10 km northwest-southeast and contains more than 50 silver-gold mines. Although only three of the mines are presently operating, there is considerable mining experience available in the area.

Currently, the Guanaceví Mines project operates at 1,100 t/d. This Technical Report presents current operating conditions and future projections as planned by Endeavour Silver. Since acquiring the property, Endeavour Silver has initiated an aggressive program of exploration, mine preparation, cyanidation plant improvement and equipment replacement. The Endeavour Silver production schedule includes mining and development of oxide and sulphide ore for processing in parallel circuits of cyanidation and flotation, which have reached a combined production capacity of more than 1,000 t/d.

For the year ending December 31, 2011, silver production was 2,659,956 oz and gold production was 6,845 oz. Plant throughput for 2011 was 363,076 t at an average grade of 311 g/t silver and 0.69 g/t gold. In 2011, mill recoveries averaged 73.3% for silver and 84.8% for gold.

Endeavour Silver’s primary short-term goal at Guanaceví is to invest in mine development and plant improvements in order to steadily increase production. Endeavour Silver’s longer term goals are to invest in exploration, find new higher grade orebodies and, if successful, evaluate the potential for further plant expansion.

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Figure 4.1
Guanaceví Mines Project Location Map

Figure provided by Endeavour Silver Corp.

Endeavour Silver’s management recently prepared a 2012 production and exploration forecast, based on a new mine plan and new exploration targets.

4.3      MINERAL TENURE

Endeavour Silver holds the Guanaceví Mines project through its 100% owned Mexican subsidiary Endeavour Gold Corporation S.A. de C.V. (Endeavour Gold). Endeavour Gold holds the project through its two 100% owned subsidiaries Minera Plata Adelante S.A. de C.V. (Minera Plata Adelante) and Refinadora Plata Guanaceví S.A. de C.V. (Refinadora Plata Guanaceví). At present, the project is comprised of 51 mineral concessions. This includes three new mineral concessions (La Brisa 4, La Brisa 4 Fracción 1 and La Brisa 5) which are in the process of being granted title. See Figure 4.2 for a concession map of the Guanaceví Mines project and Tables 4.1 and 4.2 for relevant information regarding the individual concessions. The mineral concessions are not all contiguous and vary in size, for a total property area of 4,706.2 ha. New mineral concessions optioned and staked in the La Brisa area has significantly increased Endeavour Silver’s land holdings in the Guanaceví district. The annual 2012 concession tax for the Guanaceví properties is estimated to be approximately 300,756 Mexican pesos (pesos), which is equal to about US $23,756 at an exchange rate of 12.66 pesos to US $1.00.

20



Figure 4.2
Guanaceví Mines Project, Mineral Concessions Map

Figure provided by Endeavour Silver Corp. and dated January, 2012.

21



Table 4.1
Guanaceví Mines Concessions Controlled by Endeavour Silver

Concession Name Title
Number
Term of Mineral
Concession
Hectares 2012 Annual Taxes
(pesos)
From To 1st Half 2nd Half
Santa Cruz Dos 191773 19/12/91 18/12/41 113.5387 14,163 14,163
El Pelayo Y Anexas 193392 19/12/91 18/12/41 56.2519 7,017 7,017
Unif. Santa Cruz 186577 24/04/90 23/04/40 28.5896 3,566 3,566
San Guillermo 179601 11/12/86 10/12/36 5.0000 624 624
Unificacion Flora 189233 05/12/90 04/12/40 36.5506 4,559 4,559
San Marcos 185486 14/12/89 13/12/39 5.4669 682 682
San Vicente 187020 29/05/90 28/05/40 8.0000 998 998
Nuestra Senora 185412 14/12/89 13/12/39 5.6000 699 699
San Pedro Uno 191143 29/04/91 28/04/41 49.8437 6,218 6,218
El Porvenir Dos 161449 10/04/75 09/04/25 30.0000 3,742 3,742
La Sultana 162915 08/08/78 07/08/28 11.5889 1,446 1,446
El Milache 163509 10/10/78 09/10/28 42.8866 5,350 5,350
Veronica 167013 11/08/80 10/08/80 11.7648 1,468 1,468
El Desengaño 187018 29/05/90 28/0540 19.4747 2,429 2,429
El Calvario 191733 19/12/91 18/12/41 1.3098 163 163
Elizabeth 180568 13/06/87 12/06/37 16.9973 2,120 2,120
El Rocio 227665 28/07/06 27/07/56 51.2334 1,816 1,816
La Brisa 3 236564 16/07/10 15/07/60 715.8666 6,099 6,099
La Gloria 238353 23/09/11 22/09/61 309.9369 1,767 1,767
Ampl. Al Bajo Del Nvo. P. 184074 15/02/89 14/02/39 7.3062 911 911
La Mazatleca 186475 02/04/90 01/04/40 14.1797 1,769 1,769
La Guirnalda 187771 17/09/90 16/09/40 46.7611 5,833 5,833
La Guirnalda 2 219707 03/04/03 02/04/53 5.9915 425 425
San Pablo 216716 28/05/02 27/05/52 3.3972 424 424
Ana Maria 214167 18/08/01 17/01/51 3.2320 403 403
El Martir 215925 02/04/02 01/04/52 8.8675 1,106 1,106
Ampl. Del Soto 191987 19/12/91 18/12/41 3.9998 499 499
IDA 191659 19/12/91 18/12/41 4.9086 612 612
Epsilon 195079 25/08/92 24/08/42 7.0622 881 881
El Terremoto 193869 19/12/91 18/12/41 12.0000 1,497 1,497
Alajaa 183881 23/11/88 22/11/38 11.2050 1,398 1,398
Barradon 7 214162 18/08/01 17/01/51 37.1376 4,633 4,633
Santa Isabel 204725 25/04/97 24/04/47 84.0000 10,478 10,478
Noche Buena 167563 26/11/80 25/11/30 79.8962 9,966 9,966
El Porvenir Cuatro 168105 13/02/81 12/02/31 30.0000 3,742 3,742
La Brisa 224158 19/04/05 18/04/55 25.5518 906 906
El Cambio 205475 17/09/97 16/09/47 11.9962 1,496 1,496
La Onza 211502 30/05/91 29/05/41 18.2376 2,275 2,275
San Nicolas 191543 19/12/91 18/12/41 4.4838 559 559
Ampl. de San Nicolas 191675 19/12/91 18/12/41 2.5934 324 324
La Brisa 231786 22/04/08 23/04/58 33.0000 581 581
La Brisa 2 234301 12/06/09 12/06/59 57.0000 486 486
Santa Cruz Ocho 215911 19/03/02 18/03/52 165.6280 20,660 20,660
El Pelayo 219709 03/04/03 02/04/53 5.8881 417 417
El Aguaje De Arriba 170158 17/03/82 16/03/32 5.0000 624 624
A. El Aguaje De Arriba 170159 17/03/82 16/03/32 7.0000 873 873
La Plata 170156 17/03/82 16/03/32 2.0000 250 250
La Prieta 148479 29/10/67 28/10/17 7.0000 873 873
Totals       2,225.2239 139,827 139,827

Table provided by Endeavour Silver Corp.

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Table 4.2
Guanaceví Mines Concessions Controlled by Endeavour Silver in Process of Being Granted Title

Concession Name Title
Number
Term of Mineral
Concession
Hectares 2012 Annual Taxes (pesos)
1st Half 2nd Half
   LA Brisa 4 25/37315 Title in process 1,584.4986 9,032 9,032
   LA Brisa 4 Fraccion 1 25/37315 Title in process 51.8008 295 295
   LA Brisa 5 25/37361 Title in process 214.6744 1,224 1,224
                                           Totals     1,850.9738 10,551 10,551

Table provided by Endeavour Silver Corp.

In Mexico, exploitation concessions are valid for 50 years and are extendable provided that the application is made within the five-year period prior to the expiry of the concession and the bi-annual fee and work requirements are in good standing. All new concessions must have their boundaries orientated astronomically north-south and east-west, and the lengths of the sides must be one hundred metres or multiples thereof, except where these conditions cannot be satisfied because they border on other mineral concessions. The locations of the concessions are determined on the basis of a fixed point on the land, called the starting point, which is either linked to the perimeter of the concession or located thereupon. Prior to being granted a concession, the company must present a topographic survey to the Dirección General de Minas (DGM) within 60 days of staking. Once this is completed, the DGM will usually grant the concession. Most of the exploitation concessions which comprise the Guanaceví Mines project are surveyed but do not have their boundaries orientated astronomically north-south and east-west because the concessions predate the introduction of this legislation.

Endeavour Silver has resurveyed most of its property boundaries. At the time of writing of this report, the Aguaje group, the La Sultana and San Pedro Uno mineral concessions, and the newly acquired concessions in the Milache, San Pedro and Porvenir Cuatro areas have not been check-surveyed.

Prior to December 21, 2005, exploration concessions were granted for a period of 6 years in Mexico and at the end of the 6 years they could be converted to exploitation concessions. However, as of December 21, 2005 (by means of an amendment made on April 28, 2005 to the Mexican mining law) there is now only one type of mining concession. Therefore, as of the date of the amendment (April, 2005), there is no distinction between exploration and exploitation concessions on all new titles granted. All concessions are now granted for a 50 year period provided that the concessions are kept in good standing. For the concessions to remain in good standing, a bi-annual fee must be paid to the Mexican government and a report must be filed in May of each year which covers the work accomplished on the property between January and December of the preceding year.

4.3.1     Property Agreements

Endeavour Silver has executed a number of agreements regarding the acquisition of the mineral properties, mining rights and processing facility which comprise Guanaceví Mines project. The details of the agreements were extensively reported in the April 16, 2007, Micon Technical Report and the March 31, 2006, Technical Report by Range Consulting.

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4.3.1.1      Sale and Purchase of Shares with Reservation of Ownership Agreement

All obligations of this agreement have been completed.

At the time writing of this report, Endeavour Silver owns 100% of the Guanaceví Mines project mine and plant through Minera Plata Adelantes’ acquisition of Minera Santa Cruz y Garibaldi S.A. de C.V. (Minera Santa Cruz) and Refinadora Plata Guanaceví’s acquisition of Metalurgica Guanaceví S.A. de C.V (MG). In 2006, Refinadora Plata Guanaceví had acquired the remaining 49% interest in the Guanaceví plant through the purchase of 100% of the shares of MG. The purchase price for 100% of the shares of Metalurgica Guanaceví was US $2.2 million.

Endeavour Silver was able to execute an early buy-out of the remaining shares of Minera Santa Cruz, which owned 49% of the Santa Cruz silver-gold mine. In May, 2007, the company issued 1,350,000 shares with a fair market value of US $5.04 per share to acquire the remaining 49% of the outstanding shares in Minera Santa Cruz, which included the final option payment originally due in January, 2008, and 49% of the profits for 2006 and 2007.

Endeavour Silver management elected to accelerate the property buy-out in order to streamline the mining operations and facilitate additional capital investments for the mine development program. Specifically, Endeavour Silver has evaluated the development of two new mines, Alex Breccia and Santa Cruz, on the Guanaceví Mines project and the early buy-out gave the Company the required flexibility to make the capital investments in the last half of 2007.

Under the terms of the original agreement, Endeavour Silver had the option to pay to the shareholders of Minera Santa Cruz the amount of US $2,551,430 and to spend US $1 million in exploration to acquire up to a 100% interest in Minera Santa Cruz in accordance with the following schedule:

US $852,143 on January 28, 2005, (paid).
US $423,571 on January 28, 2006, (paid).
US $637,858 on January 28, 2007, (paid).
US $637,858 on January 28, 2008, (paid).

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4.3.1.2      Minera Santa Cruz Shareholders’ Agreement

This agreement between the shareholders of Minera Santa Cruz and Endeavour Silver outlines the participation of the parties in the development, administration and operation of the Santa Cruz property and the mining concessions of Minera Santa Cruz and its assets. The agreement came into effect upon Endeavour Silver earning a 51% option interest in Minera Santa Cruz by the payment of US $852,143 on January 28, 2005.

This agreement was completed in May, 2007, granting Minera Plata Adelante 100% interest in the exploitation and exploration rights.

4.3.1.3      Minera Santa Cruz Assignment of Mining Concession Rights Agreement

This agreement between Minera Santa Cruz and Endeavour Silver involved the transfer of Minera Santa Cruz’s rights, interests and title in its mining concessions to Endeavour Silver in consideration for US $448,571. Of this amount, US $428,571 was paid, as required by the agreement, prior to May 17, 2004, and US $5,000 was to be paid annually on January 28, 2005, 2006, 2007 and 2008. Upon payment of US $5,000 on January 28, 2005, Endeavour Silver earned an undivided option interest of 51% in Minera Santa Cruz’s mining concessions, with Minera Santa Cruz retaining the remaining 49% interest, until January 28, 2006. On January 28, 2006, Endeavour Silver paid US $5,000 in order not to relinquish its 51% interest in the mining concessions. Upon payment of US $5,000 on January 28, 2006, no further payments were required by Endeavour Silver to maintain its 51% interest. Endeavour Silver had the option to increase its interest from 51% to 100% by payments of US $5,000 on January 28, 2007 and another US $5,000 on January 28, 2008.

This agreement was completed in May, 2007, granting Minera Plata Adelante 100% interest in these mining concessions.

4.3.1.4      Contract for Transfer of Rights and Obligations and Sale and Purchase of Assets

In June, 2005, Endeavour Silver signed the agreement with Minera Capela S.A. de C.V. (Minera Capela) for the transfer of rights and obligations on mining concessions which cover 9 properties from Minera Capela to Endeavour Silver. Minera Capela retains a 3% net proceeds royalty. In consideration, Endeavour Silver issued 1,000,000 units at a deemed price of CDN $1.60 per unit. Each unit was comprised of one common share and one share purchase warrant with an exercise price of CDN $2.10 until July 22, 2006 and CDN $2.30 thereafter until July 27, 2007.

4.3.1.5      Contract for Transfer of Rights

In July, 2005, Endeavour Silver, through its subsidiary Minera Plata Adelante, signed an option agreement for the transfer of rights from mining concessions relating to two properties, namely Porvenir Dos and La Sultana. In consideration, Endeavour Silver paid US $137,500 according to the following schedule:

25



US $25,000 upon signing of agreement, (paid).
US $12,500 on December 30, 2005, (paid).
US $100,000 on December 30, 2006,(paid).

In August, 2005, Endeavour Silver, through Minera Plata Adelante, signed an option agreement for the exclusive right to investigate and to explore 4 properties known as the La Prieta Group. In consideration, Endeavour Silver paid US $100,000 as follows:

US $15,000 on ratification date, (paid).
US $15,000 by six months of ratification date, (paid).
US $70,000 by twenty-four months of ratification date, (paid).

Both of these agreements were completed in 2007, granting Minera Plata Adelante 100% interest in these mining concession rights.

4.3.1.6      Option-to-Purchase Agreements – San Pedro District

In 2007, Endeavour Silver announced acquisition of two new exploration property positions in the Guanaceví district. The new acquisitions, Milache and San Pedro, are both located in the San Pedro sub-district of the Guanaceví mining district. In addition to the concessions already held (San Pedro Uno and La Sultana), Endeavour Silver now controls approximately 457 ha in the San Pedro area (Table 4.1). These property acquisitions have excellent exploration potential but do not have an immediate impact on Endeavour Silver’s mine operation at Guanaceví.

The Milache properties (74.2 ha) are located along the trend of the Santa Cruz silver vein approximately 2 km northwest of the operating Porvenir mine (Figure 4.2). The properties consist of the El Milache, El Desengaño and Veronica concessions (Table 4.1). They were acquired from Francisco Barraza on November 27, 2007. Endeavour Silver acquired a 100% interest by paying US $50,000 and issuing 30,000 shares upon signing the agreement and paying US $50,000 after 18 months.

The 15 San Pedro properties, totalling 330 ha, are located about 6 km northwest of the Porvenir mine (Table 4.1 and Figure 4.2). On December 12, 2007, Endeavour Silver acquired an option to purchase a 100% interest in the San Pedro properties from Ignacio Barraza Duarte by paying 120,000 common shares and issuing 60,000 warrants to purchase 60,000 shares at US $4.69 within a one year period following receipt of regulatory approval and a further 570,776 shares within a 24 month period. Final payment was made in 2010. The vendor will retain a 1% net smelter royalty on mineral production. In addition, the Company provided the vendor with up to US $400/m to advance the Buena Fé adit (Nacho Barraza’s tunnel) during the 24 month option period. Any ores produced from this tunnel were to be used to repay Endeavour Silver’s investment, after which the net profits were to be shared equally with the vendor. No ore was produced from the Buena Fé adit during the option period which has now expired.

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4.3.1.7      Contract of Assignment of Mining Exploitation Rights

In October, 2005, an agreement was executed between Minera Tayahua, S.A. de C.V. (Minera Tayahua) and Endeavour Silver, through its subsidiary Minera Planta Adelante. The agreement provided for the exclusive right to explore and to mine the El Porvenir property. Under the lease agreement, Endeavour Silver agreed to mine El Porvenir at a rate between 9,000 t and 27,000 t per quarter and to pay a 3% net smelter royalty from production. Endeavour Silver was also committed to incur a minimum of US $100,000 for each quarter in expenditures for exploration, development and mining.

Endeavour Silver held the exclusive right to mine the El Porvenir property for a 5-year period. However, the agreement included a clause that either party could terminate the contract in advance, without indicating cause, communicating the termination date at least 2 years before the effective date of the termination. On August 16, 2006, Endeavour Silver received a letter indicating contract termination as of August 31, 2008. Endeavour Silver mined the El Porvenir property until August 30, 2008.

4.3.1.8      Mining Exploration and Option Agreement

On February 9, 2009, Endeavour Silver entered into a mining exploration agreement with Minerales Monte Blanco S.A. de C.V. (Minerales Monte Blanco), represented by Sergio Enrique Silva Franco, on the El Porvenir Cuatro and La Brisa concessions totaling approximately 55.5518 ha. The El Porvenir Cuatro and La Brisa agreement is an option to earn a 100% interest in these properties over two years for a total consideration of US $700,000. The first payment was US $100,000 cash on signing and US $200,000 in shares based on the 10-day average price before the signing date of February 9, 2009. The subsequent payments was 12 months from signing with US $240,000 as shares, again based on the average price for 10 days prior to February 9, 2010; the final payment was due on or before February 9, 2011 and consisted of a payment of US $160,000, either as cash or shares.

In February, 2010, Endeavour Silver exercised its option to purchase the El Porvenir Cuatro and La Brisa properties and acquired a 100% interest in these properties by paying a total consideration to the vendors of US $100,000 cash and 136,054 shares on signing the option agreement, and an additional 71,428 common shares and US $160,000 cash on the early exercise of the option to purchase.

In July 2010, Endeavour Silver acquired 100% interest in the Elizabeth (17.0 ha) and El Calvario (1.3 ha) properties in Guanaceví. The purchase price of these properties was US $50,000. The El Calvario property is situated in the central part of San Pedro, adjacent to the historic, high grade Noche Buena mine and transected by the Noche Buena vein. The Elizabeth property is situated approximately 1 km east of Endeavour Silver’s Porvenir mine.

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4.3.1.9      La Brisa and Brisa 2 Option Agreement

In June, 2011, Endeavour Silver acquired the La Brisa and La Brisa 2 properties (90 ha), located approximately 10 km southeast of Endeavour Silver’s active Porvenir silver-gold mine in the Guanaceví district.

The option agreement requires Endeavour Silver to make US $220,000 in cash payments over a 3 year period.

The La Brisa concession optioned in the southern part of the Guanaceví district is different from the La Brisa concession of the same name, acquired along with Porvenir Cuatro in 2010.

4.3.1.10      New Concessions in the La Brisa Area

Endeavour Silver also staked several new concessions (2,746 ha) surrounding the La Brisa and La Brisa 2 properties to cover possible extensions of the La Brisa veins and several other recently discovered veins.

4.3.1.11      El Cambio Properties Option Agreement

In June, 2011, Endeavour Silver also acquired an option to purchase four small properties within the San Pedro sub-district. The El Cambio properties lie about 6 km northwest of the Porvenir mine and along strike from the historic El Soto and Nueva Australia high grade silver mines. These properties cover the faulted northerly strike extensions of the El Soto and Epsilon veins which Endeavour Silver has drilled the past few years with positive results.

The El Cambio option agreement gives Endeavour Silver the rights to purchase the El Cambio, La Onza, San Nicolas and Ampliacion de San Nicolas properties (37 ha) for US $150,000 in cash payments over a 2 year period.

4.3.1.12      Compensation and/or Indemnification Contract for the Temporary Occupation of Cooperative Land

In November, 2005, Endeavour Silver entered into an agreement, with the local Ejido for temporary surface access rights to certain land for the purpose of exploration in areas covered by the mining concessions. In consideration, Endeavour Silver will pay an annual fee of Mexican pesos 10,000 which will increase by the rate of inflation plus 2% for a term of 15 years.

Since the Guanaceví Mines project is composed of a number of exploitation concessions upon which mining has previously been conducted, all of the exploration work continues to be covered by the environmental permitting already in place and no further notice of work is required by any division of the Mexican government.

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In order to begin an exploration program on an exploitation concession upon which no substantial mining has been conducted, Endeavour Silver would be required to file a “Notice of Initiation of Exploration Activities” with the local authorities to inform them of the scope and environmental impact of the exploration work. Also, other permits, such as a permit to use the local municipal garbage dump, may be required.

Endeavour Silver reports that it is current in meeting the legal obligations and requirements of Mexican mining and environmental laws and regulations, including assessment work, property taxes and operating permits.

4.3.2      Access Agreements

In addition to the mineral rights, Endeavour Silver has agreements with various private ranch owners and two local Ejidos (El Hacho and San Pedro) that provide access for exploration and exploitation purposes. Table 4.3 summarizes the surface access rights as at December 31, 2011.

Table 4.3
Summary of Endeavour Silver’s Surface Access Rights

Owner Area Name Area
(ha)
Validity Term Drill Pads
(Pesos)
ANNUAL
PAYMENT
(PESOS)
Ejido La Soledad La Soledad (La Brisa) 3,254 5 Years 26/06/2011 - 2016 7,000 None
Alfonso Flores Varela El Sabinoso (la Brisa) 239 5 Years 15/06/2011 - 2016 7,000 None
Taurino Cisneros Haros Metates (La Brisa) 543 5 Years 16/06/2011 - 2016 7,000 None
Ejido Arroyo Del Hacho Guanacevi 8,559   15 Years 27/11/2005 - 2020 None 72,000
Comunidad De San Pedro San pedro 5,787 4 Years 14/04/2009 - 2013 7,500 None

4.4      LICENCES, PERMITS AND ENVIRONMENT

Endeavour Silver reports that it is in compliance with monitoring environmental aspects and with applicable safety, hygiene and environmental standards.

4.4.1      Safety

During 2011, advances continued in safety at Guanaceví with 27,388 hours of training undertaken at the mine and plant. A mine rescue trainer was hired. A fully functional mine rescue team is on site with 16 people trained. Mine rescue training is ongoing and includes first aid, fire fighting, ventilation, use of Draeger re-breathing equipment, knots, mine exploration, practical mine recovery and smoke scenarios. The mine rescue team placed second in first aid and third in the national underground mine rescue competitions in 2010 (Figure 4.3).

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Figure 4.3
2010 National Mine Rescue Team, Placed Second in First Aid and Third Place Overall

Figure provided by Endeavour Silver Corp.

Figure 4.4
2010 Jorge Rangel Zamorano Silver Helmet Award Presented by the CAMIMEX for Safety

Figure provided by Endeavour Silver Corp.

The safety department undertakes inductions of new personnel to train them in the basics of mine and plant safety and also monitors housekeeping and sign installation. Safety talks are given at the beginning of each shift to reinforce safety in the workplace. Safety training at the mines includes the Five Point Safety method, first aid, use of PPE (personal protective equipment – helmet, safety glasses, steel toe boots, gloves, hearing protection), explosives handling, barring down and identification of areas requiring support, identification of risks, lock-out/tag-out of equipment, prevention and fighting of fires, fetid gas and practical mine evacuation training (undertaken without notice during a working shift), dust in the workplace. Similarly, the plant safety training includes Five Point Safety, cyanide handling, correct use of tools, working in confined spaces, crushing and milling risk identification, firefighting and laboratory safety as well as work at elevated heights and welding hazards. The dedication to safety helped Endeavour Silver win the 2010 Jorge Rangel Zamorano Silver Helmet Award which was presented by CAMIMEX (Camara Minera de Mexico) for safety.

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Safety is also an element in the production bonus system. In 2009, management introduced the Chairman’s and President’s Safety Awards (annual and quarterly safety awards) to help incentivize all personnel to work safely. These safety initiatives continued throughout 2011. However, in 2011, there was unfortunately a fatality at the mine. As a result, Endeavour Silver re-familiarized all staff with the safety procedures and protocols.

4.4.2      Environment

Endeavour Silver holds all necessary environmental and mine permits to conduct planned exploration, development and mining operations on the Guanaceví Mines project. Further details are covered in Section 20 of this report.

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5.0      ACCESSIBILITY, CLIMATE, LOCAL RESOURCES, INFRASTRUCTURE AND PHYSIOGRAPHY

5.1      ACCESSIBILITY AND LOCAL RESOURCES

The Guanaceví properties are readily accessible from the city of Durango, capital of the Mexican state of Durango, via paved roads. Access is primarily gained by taking Mexican State Highway 45 north to the town of Canatlan, then continuing along the paved highway that connects to Santiago Papasquiaro, then to Tepehuanes, and ending at the town of Guanaceví. The total distance between Durango and the town of Guanaceví is approximately 260 km and requires about four and one half hours drive. Guanaceví has a small airport with a 1,000 m long dirt airstrip located a few kilometres south of the town and capable of handling light aircraft. Figure 5.1 is a view of the light aircraft used to fly to Guanaceví during the 2011 Micon site visit and Figure 5.2 is a view of the landing strip at Guanaceví upon approach prior to landing.

The city of Durango is an old colonial city (founded in 1563) which served as the political and ecclesiastical capital of the Nueva Vizcaya province of New Spain until 1823. Minerals are the chief product but the city is also an agricultural, commercial and tourist centre. The city has approximately 427,000 inhabitants (2000) and is the closest major population centre to Guanaceví. Durango has an international airport with numerous regional flights to other major Mexican cities as well as international flights to Los Angeles and to the southeast USA.

The Guanaceví properties lie 3.6 km from the town of Guanaceví which was founded in 1535. From the town of Guanaceví, a well-conditioned dirt road leads southwards a few kilometres to the flotation and cyanidation plant and Endeavour Silver offices and then an additional 5 km further to the Santa Cruz and Porvenir mines. Figure 5.3 is a view of part of the town of Guanaceví from the road leading to the Santa Cruz and Porvenir mines.

The population of Guanaceví is approximately 2,170, and the town has all modern amenities, including primary schools and a secondary school (high school), various stores, restaurants and a three star hotel. Although the town does not have a bank, it does have a casa de cambio (foreign exchange house) and an ATM machine. The town, mine and plant are connected to the national land-base telephone system that provides reliable national and international direct dial telephone communications as well as stable internet connections and satellite television.

Although various people are engaged in town services, the town is economically dependent on the mining and milling operations within the district.

5.2      PHYSIOGRAPHY AND CLIMATE

Figure 5.4 is a view of the terrain in the area of mine and mill facilities.

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Figure 5.1
Light Aircraft used to Access Guanaceví (2011 Micon Site Visit)

Figure 5.2
View of the Guanaceví Airstrip upon Approach (2011 Micon Site Visit)

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The dry season is from October through June with the wet season from July to September. The total average annual rainfall varies from about 65 to 105 mm. Winter temperatures vary from a maximum of 15°C to a minimum of -1.4°C, while summer temperatures range from a minimum of 20°C to a maximum of 30°C. The climate poses no limitations to the length of the operating season. Freezing temperatures can occur overnight but quickly warm to above freezing during daylight hours. Occasional snow does occur in the area but quickly melts on all but the most protected slopes.

The mountains are predominately covered with evergreen forests around Guanaceví. Wildlife in the area consists of deer, badger, foxes, coyotes, squirrels, rabbits and mice.

5.3      INFRASTRUCTURE AND LOCAL RESOURCES

The industrial water for the plant is recycled, with the make-up water (60,000 m3/y of fresh water) from a nearby underground mine. Electrical power from the Federal Power Authority (34 kV) supplies both the plant and mine. Endeavour Silver is in the process of upgrading the power to the mine and mill sites by connecting a second line into main power supply.

Endeavour Silver is currently assessing its existing tailings area but believes that there is sufficient capacity for many years of production. Endeavour Silver has also negotiated access and the right to use surface lands sufficient for many years of operation.

At each of the mine sites, the water required is supplied from the dewatering of the mines. The tailings facility at the plant is set up to recycle all water back into the ore processing plant.

Apart from offices, warehouses and other facilities, Endeavour Silver also provides dormitories and limited housing facilities for employees working on a rotational work schedule. Much of the labour work force lives in Guanaceví and nearby communities. The area has a rich tradition of mining and there is an ample supply of skilled personnel sufficient for both the underground mining operations and the surface facilities.

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6.0      HISTORY

6.1      GENERAL HISTORY

Mining has played an important role in Mexico since pre-historic times, but it entered a period of rapid expansion after the Spanish conquest when rich mineral deposits were found. The wealth found in these early mines served as an incentive for the early colonizers to locate to remote and barely accessible portions of the county.

It is not known if the indigenous peoples or the Spanish colonists first began mining in the Guanaceví district but mining extends back to at least 1535 when the mines were first worked by the Spanish. By the start of the 18th century, Guanaceví had become an important mining centre in the Nueva Vizcaya province of Nueva España (New Spain), as reported by Alexander von Humboldt in his travels through Nueva España. However, the Guanaceví mining district is not as well known today.

6.2      HISTORICAL AND RECENT EXPLORATION

The extent of historical exploration on the property is relatively unknown. Prior to management by Endeavour Silver, production was coming from three mines without the benefit of any systematic exploration drilling, geological mapping or mine planning.

At the start of the 1960’s, Engineer P. Sanchez Mejorado of Peñoles Mining Company recommended more exploration to prove up the resource estimate of 360,000 t grading 500 g/t silver at the time. Engineer P. Sanchez Mejorado mapped and sampled the mine underground and recommended diamond drilling below Level 13. This drilling was completed in 1983, with a reported additional 229,000 t outlined grading 1.20 g/t gold and 525 g/t silver, over an average thickness of 4.66 m.

Watts, Griffis and McOuat Limited (WGM) noted in its 2005 Technical Report that “The exploration works conducted by Peñoles consisted of channel sampling across the mineralized zone coupled with short lateral winke diamond drill holes (diameter approximately 1 inch) from the vein structure workings and detailed surveying and geological mapping of the underground workings. The limited exploration by Peñoles was well conducted, and blocked out several areas of potential resources.” However, WGM stated further that it believed that more than half of the areas of potential resources, except for those below the water table (below Level 13), had been mined out.

Pan American Silver Corp. (Pan American) conducted an eight-month evaluation program in 2003 that consisted of an extensive, systematic, underground channel sampling and surveying program and the drilling of three diamond drill holes in the North Porvenir area, holes SSC-01, SSC-02 and SSC-03.

Since taking over in 2004 and to December 31, 2011, Endeavour Silver has completed 421 diamond drill holes totalling 106,823.5 m and 22 reverse circulation drill holes totaling 2,977 m on the entire Guanaceví Mines project. More than 26,446 samples have also been collected and submitted for assay.

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Of this total, approximately 89,536.5 m of diamond drilling in 318 holes have been completed on the Santa Cruz vein structure in the Porvenir mine area (Table 6.1). Holes were drilled from both surface and underground drill stations.

Table 6.1
Drilling Summary for Santa Cruz Vein Structure at Guanaceví Mines Project (through December, 2010)

Project Diamond
Drill Holes
Metres
North Porvenir 182 56,137.50
Porvenir Dos 24 5,062.00
La Prieta 31 9,176.00
Santa Cruz 64 15,532.50
Alex Breccia 17 3.628.50
Total 318 89,536.50

Table provided by Endeavour Silver Corp.

Figures 6.1 and 6.2 are a composite drill hole plan map and a long section of the Santa Cruz vein on the Guanaceví property showing the drill hole coverage for the four areas of interest in the mine for further exploration, as well as further extraction of any economic mineralization.

6.3      HISTORICAL MINING AND PRODUCTION

6.3.1      Mining

Historic mining was reported in the April 16, 2007, March 18, 2009, March 15, 2010 and March 15, 2011 Micon Technical Reports and is reproduced here for the sake of continuity.

The Guanaceví mining district and the Guanaceví Mines Project area are riddled with mine openings and old workings, in a somewhat haphazard fashion near surface, representing the earliest efforts at extraction, and more systematic at depth, which is indicative of later, better organized and engineered mining. Associated with these openings and workings is a number of ruins, which represent the mine buildings, chapels and residences of the inhabitants and indicate the wealth of the mining district during its past. See Figure 6.3 for a photograph of an old mine waste dump located in the trees, alongside the road to the Santa Cruz and Porvenir mines.

The vast bulk of the material which has been extracted from underground operations through the tunnels, shafts and winzes is scattered over the hillsides in waste dumps and beneath the foundations of the ruins and modern buildings. Historically, individual veins or deposits had separate owners and, in the case of some of the larger veins or deposits, had several owners along the strike length which resulted in a surfeit of adits and shafts and very inefficient operations.

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Figure 6.3
Old Mine Waste Dump Located alongside the Road to the Santa Cruz and Porvenir Mines

The mines within the Guanaceví mining district have been developed primarily by using open stope/shrinkage and cut and fill underground mining methods. Both the ground conditions, which vary from good to poor, and the deposit geometries tend to favour the higher cost, cut and fill mining method with development waste used for backfill.

6.3.2      Production

Historic production was reported in the April 16, 2007, March, 18, 2009, and March 15, 2010 Micon Technical Reports and is reproduced here for the sake of continuity.

Mining in the Guanaceví district extends back to at least 1535 when the mines were first worked by the Spanish.

During the late sixteenth century silver production accounted for 80% of all exports from Nueva España (New Spain), although, by the mid-seventeenth century silver production collapsed when mercury, necessary to the refining process, was diverted to the silver mines of Potosí in present day Bolivia. Collapse of the seventeenth century mining led to widespread bankruptcy among the miners and hacienda owners; however, in the latter half of the seventeenth century silver mining began to recover in Nueva España. By the start of the 18th century, Guanaceví had become an important mining centre in the Nueva Vizcaya province.

The peasant uprisings of 1810 to 1821 were disastrous to the Mexican mining industry with both the insurgents’ soldiers and royalist troops all but destroying the mining production in Mexico, and the Guanaceví mining district was not spared during this period.

The district has experienced several periods of bonanza-grade production including the operation of a mint in 1844. The Guanaceví mining district, however, reached its greatest period of activity at the start of the 20th century when five processing plants were in operation and more than 15 mines were in production.

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In an article by George Wilson in the July, 1882 copy of The Engineering and Mining Journal, he states the following “a Canadian company has forty stamps en route for Guanaceví, while two American companies are now negotiating for mines at Guanaceví to put up 100 stamps. This last-named camp has been worked by Mexicans for one hundred years, beneficiating the ores in arrastras and patio, at a cost of about $30 per ton; but by American machinery and processes, the cost of mining, hauling to mill, and beneficiating, will not exceed from $15 to $18 per ton, all told; while the average yield in the arrastras and patio of all the ores worked in the district is over 70 ounces of silver and half an ounce of gold per ton. Many of the shafts are down 300 feet, and the ores have sop far invariably increased in width and yield with depth. They are true fissure veins and of great permanence, being distinctly traceable and worked on for an extension of over twelve miles from north to south. There are enough workings now open to supply ore for 500 stamps, breasts of ore six, eight, ten, and twelve feet wide being usual.” A second article by George Wilson in the same journal mentioned that “....a sale of mines at Guanaceví was closed; the price is kept private, but believed to be in the neighbourhood of $300,000. The buyers made a very careful examination of the property Their average samples of the mines assayed 342 ounces, 265 ounces, 145 ounces, 115 ounces, and 78 ounces silver per ton.”

J.R. Southworth in his 1905 volume entitled “The Mines of Mexico” mentions that Guanaceví is a very rich district and “that many of the largest capitalists of New York have enormous interests in its mines”. Southworth mentions that the Barradán, Hacienda Wilson, El Carmen, Nueva Australia and Hacienda Avila were all good mines and properties within the Guanaceví mining district. However, Southworth also mentioned that “considering the large number of once famous properties in Guanaceví, there are comparatively few now in operation. The cessation of development has been due to various causes, though usually not from lack of ore.”

Guanaceví was named as one of the most important districts in Western Durango in a 1908 article on the silver mines in Mexico contained in the “Transactions of the American Institute of Mining Engineers” but only a description of the silver veins and the host rock and no mention is made of the actual silver production.

The vast majority of production came prior to the 1910 Mexican Revolution with the Guanaceví mining district being known for its high silver grades. Previous reports noted that the official production records indicate that a total value of 500 million pesos, or approximately 500 million ounces of silver and silver equivalents, with a present day value of about US $3.25 billion, had been extracted from this mining district. This makes the Guanaceví district one of the top five silver mining districts in Mexico on the basis of past production.

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Since the 1910 Revolution, production has been sporadic. The Guanaceví Mining Company operated from the 1930’s until production ceased in 1942. Daily output was approximately 110 t/d.

In the 1970’s, the Comisión de Fomento Minero (Federal Mining Commission) (Fomento Minero), a Federal government agency charged with the responsibility of assisting the small-scale Mexican mining industry, constructed a 400 t/d flotation plant, now the MG plant. The plant has been expanded over time to its present capacity of 1,000 t/d for the cyanide circuit. In the early 1990’s, Fomento Minero started construction of a 600 t/d cyanide leach plant but construction ceased when it was only 30% complete due to the lack of funding.

In 1992, MG, a private company, purchased the Fomento Minero facilities and completed the construction of the leach plant. During 2002, total plant production included 170 t/d to 250 t/d coming from the three mines: Santa Cruz, Barradón and La Prieta mines, with approximately 700 to 800 t/d of additional feed purchased from other small scale operations.

Prior to Endeavour Silver management, production was coming from three mines without the benefit of any systematic exploration drilling, geological mapping or mine planning. During the 1920’s, Peñoles purchased several mines including the Santa Cruz mine, where from 1921 to 1924 the 330 m inclined shaft and several kilometres of underground workings on Levels 6, 7, 8, 10, 11 and 13 were developed that partially explored the vein ore shoots. However, the exploration results gave little promise to Peñoles at that time. The mine entered into a passive state and Peñoles rented the mines to various contractors who have, up to 2005, slowly mined the more accessible mineralization.

In 2004, Endeavour Silver completed a final agreement with the Mexican partner that owned the Metalurgica Guanaceví plant and shareholders of Minera Santa Cruz y Garibaldi S.A. de C.V. (Minera Santa Cruz) to take over the Santa Cruz mine. Ramping was initiated in 2004 to intersect the area where Pan American had drilled three holes in North Porvenir – El Porvenir area. In six months, diamond drilling was initiated to outline the area, the ramp was driven and approximately 10,000 t were mined from this new zone. Through 2005, approximately 1,524 m of ramping, 1,122 m of drifting and 466 m of raising were completed and 102,617 t were milled.

While it is evident that historical production has occurred in the Guanaceví mining district since pre-colonial times and early production records from the Spanish colonial period probably exist in the Archive of the Indies (Archivo des Indies), in Seville, Spain, in the records of the Viceroyalty of Mexico or in the records for Vizcaya province of Nueva España, Micon did not have access to any historical records of the actual silver and gold production.

Historical production for the years 1991 to 2003, at the Guanaceví Mines project, prior to Endeavour Silver’s involvement, is roughly estimated in Table 6.2.

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Table 6.2
Summary of the Production for the Guanaceví Property (1991 to 2003)

Year Tonnes  Silver (g/t) Gold (g/t)
1991 (from July) 2,306 (est.) 470 (est.) 1.0 (est.)
1992 10,128 340 (est.) 1.3 (est.)
1993 12,706 320 (est.) 0.8 (est.)
1994 18,256 190 (est.) 0.5 (est.)
1995 (until May) 5,774 280 (est.) 0.5 (est.)
1996 11,952 315 0.74
1997 13,379 409 0.87
1998 11,916 550 0.92
1999 6,466 528 0.84
2000 18,497 538 1.01
2001 13,150 510 1.09
2002 NA NA NA
2003 1,531 550 1.00
Total 1991 to 2003 126,061 417 0.90

Table provided by Endeavour Silver Corp.

A summary of the production for the years 2005 through to 2010, after Endeavour Silver became involved is presented in Table 6.3.

Table 6.3
Summary of Production for the Guanaceví Property (2005 through 2011)

Year Tonnes Silver
(g/t)
Gold
(g/t)
Oz Silver
Recovered
Oz Gold
Recovered
Recovery
Silver (%)
Recovery
Gold (%)
2005 102,617 385 0.88 948,323 2,332 74.7 80.5
2006 117,255 449 0.90 1,352,661 2,493 80.0 73.0
2007 226,295 375 0.70 1,907,795 3,957 69.4 75.7
2008 255,656 318 0.58 1,852,969 3,845 70.9 80.7
2009 230,632 322 0.80 1,873,833 5,243 78.4 88.8
2010 312,087 323 0.73 2,448,826 6,272 75.5 85.2
2011 363,076 311 0.69 2,659,956 6,845 73.3 84.8
Total 1,607,618 340 0.72 13,044,363 30,987    

Table provided by Endeavour Silver Corp.

For the year ending December 31, 2011, silver production was 2,659,956 oz compared to 2,448,826 oz in 2010, an increment of 8.62%, with gold production of 6,845 oz compared to 6,272 oz in 2010, an increment of 9.13%. Plant throughput for 2011 was 363,087 t at an average grade of 311 g/t silver and 0.69 g/t gold, as compared to 312,087 t at an average grade of 323 g/t silver and 0.73 g/t gold during 2010. In 2011, recoveries averaged 73.3% and 84.8% for silver and gold, respectively.

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6.4      MINERAL RESOURCES AND MINERAL RESERVES

Historical resources and reserve estimates which were conducted prior to Endeavour Silver‘s involvement with the Guanaceví Mines project will not be discussed in this report as, for the most part, they are historical estimates which were not conducted according to the CIM Standards for reporting mineral resources and reserves. In addition, since Endeavour Silver acquired ownership of the mine the resources and reserves have been revised every year based on both mining and exploration conducted during the year. These reports were posted to the SEDAR website by Endeavour Silver.

The last Technical Report to present a mineral resource and reserve estimate for the Guanaceví Mines project was dated March 15, 2011, but the effective date of the estimate was December 31, 2010. The resource and reserve estimate as audited by Micon complied with the current CIM standards and definitions for estimating resources and reserves as required by NI 43-101 regulations.

Since the last resource and reserve estimate was reported, Endeavour Silver has conducted further diamond drilling and underground development and has completed a new resource and reserve estimate for the Guanaceví Mines project. Micon has conducted Endeavour Silver’s new resource and reserve estimate and the discussions related to the new estimate are contained in Section 14.0 of this report.

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7.0      GEOLOGICAL SETTING AND MINERALIZATION

The geological setting and mineralization of the Guanaceví property is described in detail in the Range (March, 2006) and Micon (April, 2007, March, 2009, March, 2010 and March, 2011) Technical Reports. The following description of the geological setting and mineralization has been excerpted from the March, 2011 Micon report.

7.1      REGIONAL GEOLOGY

The rock types of the district can be divided into three principal stratigraphic groups based on stratigraphic studies by the Consejo de Recursos Minerales and Endeavour Silver drill core-based observations during its exploration programs.

7.1.1      Guanaceví Formation

The oldest unit in the district is the Guanaceví Formation, a polymictic basal conglomerate composed of angular to sub-angular fragments of quartz and metamorphic rocks set in a sandy to clayey matrix within sericitic and siliceous cement. It is assigned to the Upper Jurassic or Lower Cretaceous on the basis of biostratigraphic indicator fossils mentioned but not detailed in the Durango State Geological Reference Report (1993). At least 450 m of thickness has been reported in the Guanaceví area for this basal unit, the lower contact of which has not been observed. In most areas, the upper contact is structural on high-angle normal faults but, in the San Pedro area, the upper contact is abrupt from Guanaceví conglomerate rocks to fairly fresh, dark coloured andesitic flows of the Lower Volcanic Sequence that appear conformable to the underlying Guanaceví Formation. The Jurassic assignment of the Guanaceví Formation has been in question, and at least two reports in the 1990’s consider it to be Tertiary (Durning and others, unpublished reports). A Tertiary age for the unit mitigates the idea of a transitional unit persisting through the Cretaceous; alternatively, it is possible that paraconformities in the package may be present but unreported to date.

Regional studies in Mexico demonstrate that Mesozoic rocks basal to the Tertiary section are strongly deformed with the development of sericitic alteration, shearing and microfolding in local shear zones and stronger deformation associated with overthrust nappe folds of Laramide age (late Cretaceous to end of the Paleocene). This type of strong deformation is not visible in the Guanaceví Formation, further raising questions about the validity of a Mesozoic assignment for this unit.

The Guanaceví Formation has been structurally defined as a horst, occupying the central portion of the northwest trending Guanaceví erosional window and flanked by sets of northwest striking normal faults that offset the Upper and Lower Volcanic Sequences down to the southwest and northeast on corresponding sides of the window. Mineralization within the horst is hosted by the conglomerate, both as dilatational high-angle fracture-filled structures and, in the San Pedro area, as manto-like replacement bodies below the upper contact of the conglomerate with overlying andesitic units of the Lower Volcanic Sequence.

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7.1.2      Lower Volcanic Sequence

Using an inherited stratigraphic framework for the area, andesitic rocks and associated sedimentary units are placed in a loosely-defined package of flows and volcaniclastic sediments correlated with Eocene volcanism throughout the Sierra Madre of Mexico. No radio isotope age determinations have been made on volcanic units of the Guanaceví district, and lithological correlations to the Lower Volcanic Sequence appear to be reasonable for the andesitic flows and associated volcaniclastic units.

It has been observed in the rocks that host the Porvenir and Santa Cruz mine workings that the andesite occurs as a pale green to nearly black volcanic flow ranging from aphyric to plagioclase-hornblende phyric. Plagioclase is the common phenocryst type with crystals ranging from 1 to 2 mm up to 10 mm. Hornblende phenocrysts are 1 mm to 4 mm in length. In porphyritic andesites, feldspar phenocryst abundance approaches 5%, and hornblende abundance is generally less than 3%.

The sequence of rock types in the Lower Volcanic Sequence, as presently understood, is a coarsening-upward series of volcaniclastic sediments capped by an andesite flow as described above. The sedimentary lithologies are siltstones overlain by sandstone with minor intercalations of conformable conglomerate beds. The siltstone-sandstone sequence becomes transitionally dominated by conglomeratic beds at the top of the volcaniclastic package. Overall thickness of the siltstone-sandstone beds is up to 120 m. Conglomerate beds of the Lower Volcanic Sequence are from a few centimetres to 150 m thick at the top of the package, and differ from the conglomerates of the Guanaceví Formation in that Lower Volcanic Sequence clasts are mainly andesite of varying textural types.

7.1.3      Upper Volcanic Sequence

The Upper Volcanic Sequence consists of rhyolite crystal-lapilli tuff units uncomformably overlying the andesites which are generally structurally disrupted and altered by oxidation and silicification. The rhyolite is strongly argillically-altered with silicification overprinting argillic alteration in the immediate hanging wall of quartz veins and other silicified structures. The rhyolite commonly contains rounded quartz ‘eyes’ up to 4 mm in diameter, and the matrix consists of adularia, kaolinite and quartz. Local concentrations of biotite crystals up to 2 mm are not uncommon. The rhyolite has variable textures from thin-bedded ash flows to coarse lapilli tuffs with lithic clasts of andesite or rhyolite up to 50 cm in diameter. These latter commonly exhibit alteration rims indicating high temperatures and fluids in the volcanic environment. The thickness of the rhyolite tuff assemblage has not been measured at this time, but appears to exceed 300 m.

Geochemically, the lower portion of the rhyolites has been demonstrated by rare earth element (REE) data, from a series of samples taken from East Santa Cruz drilling, to be magmatically linked to the underlying andesites. The similarity between REE patterns of the rhyolite crystal-lapilli tuff and the andesitic rock units in this data set suggests a common source for the two volcanic packages that is difficult to reconcile with the idea of many millions of years of volcanic quiescence (from Lower Volcanic to Upper Volcanic Sequences). This raises the possibility that regional correlations for Guanaceví rhyolite based on radio isotope age determinations may result in assignment of the rhyolite (of the Santa Cruz/Porvenir mine area) to the Lower Volcanic Sequence rather than the Upper. In the San Martin de Bolanos district of Jalisco and also in the Topia district of Durango State, uppermost volcanic lithologies of the Lower Volcanic Sequence are rhyolitic and directly associated with mineralization. This may be true for the Guanaceví mining district as well.

45



See Figure 7.1 for a map of the regional geology in the area surrounding the Guanaceví mining district. See Table 7.1 for a generalized stratigraphic column in the Guanaceví mining district.

Table 7.1
Generalized Stratigraphic Column in the Guanaceví Mining District

Geological Age Stratigraphic Units and Lithologies Thickness
(m)
Tertiary Oligocene Upper Volcanic Sequence
Rhyolitic tuffs and ignimbrites
+ 300
Eocene Lower Volcanic Sequence
Andesite porphrytic flow
Andesite conglomerate
Volcanic sandstone/siltstone

< 70
< 150
< 120
Jurassic (?) (Late) ? Guanaceví Formation + 450

Note: Table adapted from the March, 2006 Technical Report by Range Consulting

7.1.4      Structural Setting

Figure 7.1, shows major faults of the Guanaceví mining district on a simplified geologic map of the region. The map pattern constitutes an erosional window caused by crustal uplift apparently centred about 3 km west of Guanaceví. With some exceptions, fracture-filling vein mineralization is localized on the flanks of the uplift centre, suggesting a genetic relationship between uplift and mineralization. The three principal trends of high-angle normal faults that characterize the region are as follows:

  • The dominant structural trend in the region is northwest, with significant north- northeast faults in a likely conjugate relationship. This generation of structures hosts most of the mineralization in the district.

  • Northeast faults postdate the mineralized structures.

  • East-west faults appear last.

This pattern sequence would appear to indicate an early extension in a northeast-southwest direction, followed by a later extension in an east-northeast–west-southwest direction, followed by a northwest-southeast extension and finally ending with the latest extension in a north-south direction. This clockwise evolution of principal stress directions is similar to that of other regions in the American Cordillera, including the Sierra Madre of Mexico.

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Figure 7.1
Regional Geology Map for the Guanaceví Mining District

Figure provided by Endeavour Silver Corp.

Timing of uplift of the Guanaceví window is constrained by the following considerations:

  • Dilatational fractures flanking the uplift are dominantly northwest trending, with subordinate north and north-northeast components. Northeast and east-west fractures are not significant in controlling the uplift pattern. Thus, uplift is early in the structural evolution described above.

  • The northeast-southwest extension in Mexico is generally associated with opening of the Gulf of California, and dated as Oligocene to Miocene.

  • Uplift therefore may be coeval with the onset of silicic volcanism of the Upper Volcanics, which are considered Oligocene in age.

47



It is reasonable to conclude that uplift occurred at the onset of Upper Volcanic Sequence eruptions (Oligocene), northeast-southwest extension, and was coeval with mineralization. The cause of uplift, however, is left unexplained by these considerations. Alternative explanations include magmatic upwelling at depth, resurgent doming within a cryptic caldera, or tectonic transpression resulting from large-scale lateral displacement

7.2      PROJECT GEOLOGY

The Santa Cruz mine property, which forms part of the main portion of the Guanaceví Mines project, covers about a 3.0 km strike length of the Santa Cruz fault/vein system. The Santa Cruz vein is similar in many respects to other veins in the Guanaceví district, except that it is the only one to lie on the west side of the horst of Guanaceví Formation and associated facies, and it dips west instead of east. See Figure 7.2 for the Guanaceví Mines project geology map.

Figure 7.2
Guanaceví Mines Project Geology Map

Figure provided by Endeavour Silver Corp. Figure dated January, 2012.

In the Porvenir Dos area and the Deep Santa Cruz mine workings, a low angle rhyolite crystal-lapilli tuff and andesitic contact occurs high in the hanging wall of the Santa Cruz vein indicating a fault contact with Guanaceví Formation, which obviously cuts the contact.

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7.2.1      Local Structure

The Santa Cruz vein, the principal host of silver and gold mineralization, is located on the west side of the horst of the Guanaceví Formation. The mineralized vein is part of a major fault system that trends northwest and principally places the Guanaceví Formation in the footwall against andesite and/or rhyolite in the hanging wall. The vein/fault presents a preferred strike of N45°W with dips from 45° to 70° to the southwest. From La Prieta to Porvenir Dos, it extends a distance of 5 km and averages approximately 3 m in width.

The broader and higher-grade mineralized ore shoots tend to occur along flexures in the Santa Cruz vein structure, where sigmoidal loops are developed both along strike and down dip. The vein in Deep Santa Cruz for instance splays into two, three or four separate mineralized structures with the intervening wallrocks also often well mineralized, giving mining widths up to 20 m in some places. These sigmoidal loops tend to develop with some regularity along strike and all of the ore shoots at the Santa Cruz mine have about a 60° plunge to the northwest. A shallow northwest plunging striation, raking at 15°- 30°, is noted on a number of fault planes within the Santa Cruz structure; these striations appear to be consistent with an observed sinistral movement seen on minor faults which produce small offsets of the Santa Cruz vein.

Particularly around the peripheral ore zones the vein is observed to develop imbricate structures, either as imbricate lenses shallowly oblique to the principal Santa Cruz trend or as vein segments offset by similarly trending minor faults. The trend of these structural features is generally slightly more westerly than the Santa Cruz vein/fault trend and steeper dipping. Veining is also often affected by north-south structures, which rarely seem to offset the main fault but do cause minor jogs in the vein; often the north-south structures are associated with manganese oxide concentrations and elevated silver grades.

7.2.2      Alteration

The sedimentary and volcanic rocks are hydrothermally altered with propylitization (chlorite) the most widespread, up to 150 m from the veins, with narrower bands of potassic and argillic alteration (kaolinite and adularia) typically up to 25 m thick in the hanging wall and with silicification near the veins. Phyllic alteration, however, is absent in the Guanaceví district.

7.3      MINERALIZATION

The mineralization of the Guanaceví property is described in detail in the Range (March, 2006) and Micon (April, 2007, March, 2009, March, 2010 and March, 2011) Technical Reports. The following description of the mineralization has been excerpted from the March, 2011, Micon report.

49



The principal mineralization within the Santa Cruz-Porvenir mines is an epithermal low-sulphidation, quartz-carbonate, fracture-filling vein hosted by a fault-structure that trends approximately N45°W and dips 55° southwest. The fault and vein comprise a structural system referred to locally as the Santa Cruz vein structure or Santa Cruz vein fault. The Santa Cruz vein structure has been traced for 5 km along the trend and averages about 3 m in width. Mineralization in the system is not continuous, but occurs in steeply northwest-raking shoots up to 200 m in strike length. A second vein, sub-parallel to the Santa Cruz vein but less continuous, is economically significant in the Porvenir Dos zone and in the northern portion of deep North Porvenir. It is referred to in both areas as the “Footwall vein”, although in Porvenir Dos, the term “Conglomerate vein” has also been employed.

7.3.1      Santa Cruz Vein

The Santa Cruz vein is a silver-rich structure with lesser amounts of gold, lead and zinc. Mineralization has averaged 500 g/t silver and 1 g/t gold over 3 m true width. The minerals encountered are argentite-acanthite, limited gold, galena, sphalerite, pyrite and manganese oxides. Gangue minerals noted are barite, rhodonite, rhodochrosite, calcite, fluorite and quartz. The mineralization down to Level 6 in the Santa Cruz mine is mainly oxidized, with a transition zone of oxides to sulphides occurring between Levels 6 to 8, although some sulphide ore was mined above Level 6.

Mineralization exhibits evidence of episodic hydrothermal events which generated finely banded textures. The higher grade mineralization in the district is commonly associated with multiple phases of banding and brecciation. The first phase, deposition of white quartz, white calcite and pyrite in stockwork structures, often exhibits horse-tail structures bifurcating both in the horizontal and vertical sense to form imbricate pods. The second phase deposited semitranslucent quartz with argentite, scarce gold, and oxides of manganese (2%) and rare lead and zinc sulphide (4%), the latter particularly in the lower part of the hydrothermal system. The second phase was accompanied by the deposition of barite, rhodonite, rhodochrosite, fluorite and calcite.

This second phase comprises multiple pulses of mineralization expressed in the vein structures as bands of massive, banded or brecciated quartz. Massive and massive-to-banded quartz are commonly associated with carbonate which is predominantly manganoan calcite and calcitic rhodochrosite. Rhodonite is much less abundant than carbonates but is not uncommon.

According to results obtained through diamond drilling, the lead and zinc mineralization occurs more commonly in the vein below the water table which, in the Santa Cruz mine, is just below the 13 Level.

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7.3.2      Footwall Veins

In the Porvenir Dos area and in the deeper portion of North Porvenir, a footwall-hosted vein lies in the footwall of the Santa Cruz vein structure. In both areas, this footwall vein is either within Guanaceví Formation footwall rocks or is at the structural contact between Guanaceví Formation and Lower Volcanic Sequence andesite. It is banded to brecciated quartz plus carbonate and contains local scatterings (<1%) of sulphides (pyrite>sphalerite> galena>chalcopyrite) and rare pods (<50 cm) of sulphides. It appears likely from drill sections that these footwall vein occurrences are splays of the main Santa Cruz vein structure and are largely sympathetic to it. At the north end of North Porvenir, on Section 19, the footwall vein attains a true width of over 7 m with silver grades of approximately 400 g/t in some areas. In Porvenir Dos, the footwall vein is narrower than the Santa Cruz vein and is overall a lower-grade vein, although one high grade intercept (uncapped) has been recorded in drill hole PD 36-3, at 2,548 g/t silver over 1.25 m.

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8.0      DEPOSIT TYPES

The deposit types of the Guanaceví property are described in detail in the Range (March, 2006) and Micon (April, 2007, March, 2009, March, 2010 and March, 2011) Technical Reports. The following description was excerpted from the March, 2011, Micon report.

The Guanaceví silver-gold district comprises classic, high-grade silver-gold, epithermal vein deposits, characterized by low sulphidation mineralization and adularia-sericite alteration. The Guanaceví veins are typical of most other epithermal silver-gold vein deposits in Mexico in that they are primarily hosted in the Tertiary Lower Volcanic series of andesite flows, pyroclastics and epiclastics, overlain by the Upper Volcanic series of rhyolite pyroclastics and ignimbrites. Evidence is accumulating in the Guanaceví mining district that the mineralization is closely associated with a pulse of silicic eruptions that either signaled the end of Lower Volcanic Sequence magmatism or the onset of Upper Volcanic Sequence activity.

Low-sulphidation epithermal veins in Mexico typically have a well defined, subhorizontal ore horizon about 300 m to 500 m in vertical extent where the bonanza grade ore shoots have been deposited due to boiling of the hydrothermal fluids. Neither the top nor the bottom of the Santa Cruz ore horizon has yet been found but, given that high-grade mineralization occurs over a 400 m vertical extent from the top of the Garibaldi shaft (south of the Santa Cruz mine) to below Level 13 in Santa Cruz, it is likely that erosion has not removed a significant extent of the ore horizon.

Low sulphidation deposits are formed by the circulation of hydrothermal solutions that are near neutral in pH, resulting in very little acidic alteration with the host rock units. The characteristic alteration assemblages include illite, sericite and adularia that are typically hosted by either the veins themselves or in the vein wall rocks. The hydrothermal fluid can travel either along discrete fractures where it may create vein deposits or it can travel through permeable lithology such as a poorly welded ignimbrite flow, where it may deposit its load of precious metals in a disseminated deposit. In general terms, this style of mineralization is found at some distance from the heat source. Figure 8.1 illustrates the spatial distribution of the alteration and veining found in a hypothetical low-sulphidation hydrothermal system.

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Figure 8.1
Alteration Mineral Distributions Within a Low Suphidation System

Figure taken from Pressacco, 2005.

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9.0      EXPLORATION

Detailed descriptions of Endeavour Silver’s previous exploration programs were provided in previous Micon Technical Reports and are summarized in Section 6 of this report. Only the 2011 exploration program will be discussed in detail in this section.

9.1     2011 GENERAL EXPLORATION AND DRILLING

9.1.1     2011 Mine Exploration

The mine conducted drilling programs on a number of targets related to the veins which are being exploited. The mine drilling occured both on surface and underground in 2011 and is discussed in more detail in Section 10 of this report.

9.1.2     2011 Surface Exploration and Drilling

In 2011, Endeavour Silver spent US $2,834,541 (including property holding costs) on exploration activities mainly on the San Pedro, San Joaquin - Santa Isabel, Epsilon, Milache and La Brisa areas, as detailed in Table 9.1.

Table 9.1
Summary of the 2011 Expenditures for the Guanaceví Surface Exploration Program

Mine or
Concession/Claim
Area Description Pesos US$
Mine Nuestra Señora Taxes 1,246 100
Subtotal 1,246 100
San Marcos Taxes 1,216 98
Subtotal 1,216 98
San Vicente Taxes 1,780 143
Subtotal 1,780 143
San Pedro Uno Taxes 11,092 893
Subtotal 11,092 893
  Mine Total 15,334 1,235
Concession/Claim Porvenir Dos Taxes 6,676 537
Subtotal 6,676 537
Las Sultana Taxes 2,578 208
Subtotal 2,578 208
San Guillermo Taxes 1,112 90
Subtotal 1,112 90
Unificación Flora Taxes 8,134 655
Subtotal 8,134 655
Unificación Santa Cruz Taxes 6,362 512
Subtotal 6,362 512
Santa Cruz Dos Taxes 25,266 2,034
Subtotal 25,266 2,034
El Pelayo y Anexas Taxes 12,518 1,008
Subtotal 12,518 1,008
Milache Assays 498,836 40,161
Diamond drilling 3,405,059 274,138
Field 24,839 2,000
Food 6,199 499
Office supplies and equipment 957 77
Geology and engineering personnel 401,094 32,292
Taxes 23,865 1,921
Milache roads and drill pads 144,500 11,634
Salaries (subtotal) 109,540 8,819
Travel and lodging 623 50
Repair and maintenance 16,041 1,291
Expenses, non-deductible 28,074 2,260

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Mine or
Concession/Claim
Area Description Pesos US$
    Subtotal 4,659,627 375,142
Porvenir Cuatro Taxes 6,676 537
Subtotal 6,676 537
San Pedro Assays 672,084 54,109
Consultants 87,500 7,045
Diamond drilling 642,604 51,735
San Pedro field 10,401 837
San Pedro food 8,784 707
Geology and engineering personnel 332,724 26,787
Taxes 71,674 5,770
Reclamation 14,350 1,155
Roads and drill pads 37,341 3,006
Salaries 105,427 8,488
Travel and lodging 2,086 168
San Pedro repair and maintenance 33,705 2,714
Expenses, non-deductible 105,458 8,490
Subtotal 2,124,137 171,012
Calvario / Elizabeth Taxes 4,074 328
Subtotal 4,074 328
Epsilon Assays 665,912 53,612
Diamond drilling 4,807,587 387,054
Field 171,839 13,835
Housing 22,638 1,823
Food 73,434 5,912
Geology and engineering personnel 878,615 70,736
     
Contract payments and fees 174,135 14,019
Roads and drill pads 375,267 30,212
Salaries (subtotal) 151,355 12,185
Travel and lodging 42,931 3,456
Gas 90,006 7,246
Repair and maintenance 33,516 2,698
Expenses, non-deductible 209,686 16,882
Subtotal 7,696,921 619,671
San Joaquin - Santa Isabel Assays 1,478,554 119,037
Diamond drilling 9,756,005 785,446
Field 237,052 19,085
Housing 32,298 2,600
Food 75,640 6,090
Geology and engineering personnel 1,309,366 105,416
Management 2,102 169
Contract services 11,077 892
Roads and drill pads 990,684 79,759
Salaries (subtotal) 301,276 24,255
Travel and lodging 98,215 7,907
Gas 53,280 4,289
Repair and maintenance 101,920 8,205
Expenses, non-deductible 310,370 24,988
Subtotal 14,757,840 1,188,138
La Brisa Assays 189,631 15,267
Consultants 25,175 2,027
Diamond drilling 2,694,036 216,894
Field 101,266 8,153
Food 39,214 3,157
Office supplies and equipment 2,879 232
Geology and engineering personnel 1,091,953 87,912
Taxes 62,901 5,064
Contract payments and fees 447,481 36,026
Contract services 43,217 3,479
Roads and drill pads 636,319 51,229
Salaries (subtotal) 273,378 22,009
Travel and lodging 23,906 1,925
Gas 74,164 5,971
Repair and maintenance 44,532 3,585
Expenses, non-deductible 126,318 10,170
Subtotal 5,876,371 473,100
El Cambio, La Onza, San Nicolás, Ampliación de San Nicolas Taxes 4,152 334
Subtotal 4,152 334
Concession/Claim Total 35,192,443 2,833,306
Guanaceví Exploration Total 35,207,777 2,834,541

Table provided by Endeavour Silver Corp.

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9.2      2011 EXPLORATION ACTIVITIES

9.2.1      Surface Geological Mapping

A total of 1,183 rock and soil samples were collected on the Guanaceví property during 2011.

9.2.1.1     San Pedro Area

El Martir – El Soto

In 2011, surface and underground geological mapping and sampling were completed on the El Martir, El Soto and adjoining claims in the San Pedro area (Figure 9.1).

Figure 9.1
Surface Map of the El Martir Area

Figure provided by Endeavour Silver Corp. Figure dated January, 2012.

A total of 389 rock samples were collected in this area and sent for analysis to the ALS-Chemex (ALS) laboratory. Significant assays for rock sampling in the El Martir and El Soto area are shown in Table 9.2.

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Table 9.2
Significant Assays for Rock Sampling in the El Martir Area, San Pedro Sub-District

Sample ID Location Width (m) Au (ppm) Ag (ppm) Cu (%) Pb (%) Zn (%)
ESP-575 Alondra 0.3 0.10 886 0.236 0.808 >1
ESP-579 Alondra 0.4 <0.05 10 0.003 0.008 0.013
ESP-580 Alondra 0.7 <0.05 226 0.055 0.110 0.166
ESP-581 Alondra 0.35 <0.05 43 0.018 0.031 0.021
ESP-583 Alondra 0.3 <0.05 9 0.003 0.042 0.059
ESP-584 Alondra 0.35 <0.05 33 0.008 0.007 0.011
ESP-585 Alondra 0.4 <0.05 69 0.032 0.032 0.054
ESP-587 Alondra 0.3 <0.05 17 0.010 0.036 0.091
ESP-588 Alondra 0.5 <0.05 174 0.039 0.303 0.365
ESP-619 Alondra 0.25 0.76 45 0.008 0.051 0.005
ESP-620 Alondra 0.35 0.07 12 0.006 0.052 0.005
ESP-632 El Martir 0.3 0.33 274 0.0362 0.0284 0.0615
ESP-634 El Martir 0.3 0.44 363 0.0048 0.0204 0.0569
ESP-635 El Martir 0.35 2.43 530 0.0583 0.0856 0.242
ESP-636 El Martir 0.3 0.23 108 0.012 0.122 0.0868
ESP-642 El Martir 0.3 0.13 27 0.0017 0.0096 0.0376
ESP-643 El Martir 0.3 0.43 148 0.0032 0.0326 0.0825
ESP-645 El Martir 0.4 0.31 227 0.0091 0.0119 0.0721
ESP-646 El Martir 0.7 0.36 91 0.0069 0.0236 0.0846
ESP-647 El Martir 0.35 0.32 79 0.0072 0.0232 0.082
ESP-663 El Martir 0.55 0.18 40 0.0049 0.0109 0.0546
ESP-665 El Martir 0.25 0.35 215 0.0074 0.0153 0.0414
ESP-666 El Martir 0.3 0.33 62 0.0035 0.0077 0.0313
ESP-667 El Martir 0.2 <0.05 99 0.0013 0.0021 0.0153
ESP-681 El Martir 0.3 0.74 430 0.010 0.206 0.006
ESP-684 El Martir 0.35 <0.05 907 0.031 0.206 0.066
ESP-685 El Martir 0.4 <0.05 423 0.020 0.039 0.028
ESP-706 El Martir 0.4 0.45 122 0.004 0.028 0.092
ESP-715 El Martir 0.2 2.44 905 0.026 0.187 0.046
ESP-717 El Martir 0.2 0.24 376 0.013 0.068 0.178
ESP-718 El Martir 0.5 2.27 1265 0.013 0.093 0.280
ESP-719 El Cambio 0.4 <0.05 90 0.005 0.005 0.130
ESP-720 El Cambio 0.3 0.29 92 0.009 0.035 0.171
ESP-734 El Cambio 0.35 0.39 151 0.021 0.005 0.024
ESP-740 El Cambio 0.3 0.17 100 0.010 0.012 0.011
ESP-741 El Cambio 0.2 1.48 758 0.012 0.041 0.032
ESP-743 El Cambio 0.2 0.54 167 0.009 0.271 0.157
ESP-745 El Cambio 0.4 5.11 1445 0.068 0.138 0.393
ESP-746 El Cambio 0.3 0.38 195 0.003 0.008 0.027
ESP-764 El Soto 0.35 0.10 78 0.006 0.028 0.027
ESP-765 El Soto 0.2 18.65 3120 0.054 0.899 0.149
ESP-766 El Soto 0.3 0.73 243 0.003 0.060 0.135
ESP-767 El Soto 0.3 0.55 215 0.003 0.109 0.025
ESP-768 El Soto 0.2 0.99 613 0.005 0.166 0.073
ESP-769 El Soto 0.35 0.29 157 0.002 0.039 0.007
ESP-771 El Soto 0.4 0.42 187 0.005 0.062 0.619
ESP-772 El Soto 0.5 0.21 54 0.002 0.061 0.159

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Sample ID Location Width (m) Au (ppm) Ag (ppm) Cu (%) Pb (%) Zn (%)
ESP-778 El Soto 0.25 0.31 83 0.018 0.624 0.214
ESP-779 El Soto 0.5 0.07 58 0.003 0.020 0.058
ESP-781 El Soto 0.25 0.44 105 0.005 0.059 0.253
ESP-784 El Soto 0.2 0.84 520 0.014 0.031 0.157
ESP-787 El Soto 0.2 0.29 135 0.007 0.055 0.061
ESP-798 El Soto 0.2 0.42 235 0.010 0.200 0.681
ESP-810 El Soto 0.2 0.28 263 0.032 0.242 0.335
ESP-812 El Soto 0.25 0.53 248 0.004 0.070 0.046
ESP-813 El Soto 0.5 0.89 822 0.004 0.391 0.095
ESP-814 El Soto 0.4 0.24 308 0.005 0.029 0.031
ESP-815 El Soto 0.4 0.35 286 0.003 0.034 0.046
ESP-820 El Soto 0.45 1.67 677 0.026 0.379 0.447
ESP-821 El Soto 0.35 0.27 287 0.038 0.034 0.151
ESP-834 San Pedro Uno 0.2 0.20 119 0.007 0.045 0.055
ESP-841 San Pedro Uno 0.25 1.32 344 0.022 0.240 0.441
ESP-921 San Nicolas 0.6 0.15 131 0.004 0.063 0.060
ESP-922 San Nicolas 0.3 0.48 154 0.012 0.370 0.184
ESP-923 San Nicolas 0.4 0.07 75 0.003 0.047 0.058
ESP-924 San Nicolas 0.3 0.32 76 0.038 0.362 0.122
ESP-925 San Nicolas 0.65 0.10 552 0.016 0.070 0.053
ESP-926 San Nicolas 0.6 4.76 186 0.034 0.546 0.161
ESP-933 El Soto 0.5 0.10 156 0.005 0.034 0.071
ESP-934 El Soto 0.3 <0.05 120 0.004 0.050 0.144
ESP-935 El Soto 0.3 0.15 85 0.002 0.024 0.148
ESP-940 El Soto 0.2 0.17 122 0.015 0.034 0.123
ESP-957 El Soto 0.2 0.49 229 0.010 0.152 0.376
ESP-962 El Soto 0.25 0.25 217 0.003 0.028 0.156
ESP-963 El Soto 0.3 1.18 1,625 0.010 0.315 0.308
ESP-968 El Soto 0.2 0.60 659 0.008 0.384 0.273
ESP-971 El Soto 0.2 1.69 897 0.004 0.276 0.214
ESP-972 El Soto 0.45 0.52 292 0.002 0.245 0.539
ESP-976 El Soto 0.3 0.31 202 0.579 0.010 0.024
ESP-979 La Sultana 0.4 0.84 206 0.009 0.066 0.117
ESP-994 La Sultana 0.25 1.37 779 0.007 0.299 0.272
ESP-997 La Sultana 0.2 0.52 277 0.006 0.108 0.184
ESP-1000 La Sultana 0.2 0.67 368 0.005 0.168 0.157
ESP-1012 La Sultana 0.3 0.92 638 0.006 0.342 0.307
ESP-1013 La Sultana 0.6 0.52 302 0.004 0.181 0.178
ESP-1021 El Soto 0.2 0.66 365 0.092 0.949 0.823
ESP-1025 La Sultana 0.25 <0.05 49 0.006 0.006 0.042
ESP-1027 La Sultana 0.2 <0.05 39 0.009 0.004 0.076
ESP-1030 La Sultana 0.2 <0.05 67 0.081 0.403 0.043
ESP-1031 La Sultana 0.2 <0.05 70 0.059 0.083 0.051
ESP-1049 El Cambio 0.2 1.26 392 0.011 0.246 0.140
ESP-1050 El Martir 0.4 <0.05 45 0.013 0.012 0.046
ESP-1051 El Martir 0.25 0.11 93 0.009 0.086 0.028
ESP-1057 San Pedro Uno 0.2 <0.05 119 0.007 0.025 0.045
ESP-1061 El Martir 0.3 0.14 30 0.001 0.016 0.133
ESP-1064 El Martir 0.3 0.75 409 0.005 0.154 0.346
ESP-1066 El Martir 0.2 0.25 116 0.002 0.051 0.102

Table provided by Endeavour Silver Corp.

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The Nueva Australia vein system mainly consists of a dominant quartz vein, trending NE45º-50ºSW and dipping 55º-75º northwest. Outcrops and workings in the southern area, however, also show the structure to dip towards the southeast. The predominant alteration is silicification associated with minor pyrite and moderate to high quantities of manganese oxide.

Reconnaissance to the south of the Nueva Australia vein system also revealed several sub-parallel structures trending NW80ºSE, with a dip between 50º to 70º northeast. The structures mainly consisted of quartz with fine disseminated pyrite (<1%) and locally abundant manganese oxides. The veins display brecciated texture with intense oxidation and associated with moderate to intense silicification. The host rock is a fine grained green andesite. These structures are located partially on the El Martir and San Pedro Uno claims and appear to intersect with the main Nueva Australia underground workings. These structures may represent the western extension of the Calvario and Armagedon veins in the Noche Buena area.

The north part of the San Pedro Uno claim was also investigated to correlate any structures mapped on El Martir. In this area, a vein trending NE10ºSW and dipping 51º northwest was mapped. The vein was traced for 60 m with an average width of 0.50 m. It consisted of mainly brecciated texture and quartz filling cavities with manganese, calcite, chlorite and disseminated pyrite. Veinlets of calcite, quartz with manganese and minor disseminated pyrite, with a preferencial trend of NE50ºSW and variable dip, were also observed. The host rock is andesite (oxidized and argillized).

In the Sultana mine, a vein-fault was mapped which trends N60ºE/50 to 55ºSE in the northeast part, but swings southerly, trending N20ºE/60ºSE, in the southwestern part (Figure 9.2). The vein was developed about 200 m along strike and varied in width from 0.20 to 0.70 m. Sultana is a strongly faulted vein with 20-30 cm wide gouge. The vein structure consists of milky and crystalline quartz, minor calcite, rhodochrosite, finely disseminated and micro-veinlets of pyrite (<1%) and minor galena, argentite and chalcopyrite. Veins are associated with moderate to intense oxidation, both iron and manganese oxides (including pyrolusite), argillization and locally intense silicification. The host rock is green andesite with weak argillization.

Also in the Sultana mine area, an old working followed a vein-fault (called the PP vein) which trends N55ºW/76ºSW. The mineralogy consisted of fault material with fine disseminated pyrite (<1%), minor chlorite and iron oxides. The host rock is fine-grained andesite.

On the surface, the PP vein was traced for over a 220 m length. The general attitude of the structure is N55ºW/76ºSW. Underground, the intersection of the PP vein with the Sultana vein was not observed.

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Underground mapping and sampling was also completed on the Polvorin vein. The Polverin was developed 85 m along strike. The mineralogy consisted of white banded quartz vein with minor rhodochrosite and disseminated pyrite (<1%). The general trend is N25ºE/58-68ºSE, variable width of 0.10 to 0.25 m and about 20 m long of development.

Figure 9.2
Surface Geological Map of the Sultana-Soto Area
(Underground Channel Samples are also Shown)

Figure provided by Endeavour Silver Corp. Figure dated January, 2012.

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In 2011, reconnaissance mapping was also completed on a portion of the El Soto vein. This work revealed a series of inter-connected old mine workings on that vein. It was inferred from the mine workings that a continuous zone, approximately 200 m long, had been developed.

Mapping also showed that the El Soto vein in the north part trends towards the east, and appears to be offset by the Sultana vein-fault.

The San Nicolas and Ampliacion de San Nicolas claims, on the north side of the Sultana structure, were investigated for the possible continuation of the El Soto vein. No evidence of strong structures, only minor faults and weak alteration (argillization and oxidation), were found. The El Soto vein does not appear to project into this area.

Reconnaissance mapping was also carried out on the Alondra claim, near the boundary of the La Guirnalda claim, in the San Pedro sub-district. The objective was to locate the continuation of the Santa Cruz vein in this area. The major part of the surface is soil covered and only altered, mainly oxidized, irregular outcrops were observed. Oxidation is moderate to intense in places. The remainder of the area is covered by rhyolite.

Santa Isabel – Terremoto – Alajaa

Surface and underground geological mapping and sampling were carried out on the Santa Isabel, Terremoto, Alajaa and neighbouring claims in the San Pedro sub-district (Figure 9.3).

A total of 200 rock samples were collected in the area and submitted to the ALS laboratory for analysis. Significant assays for rock sampling in the Santa Isabel-Terremoto-Alajaa and surrounding areas are summarized in Table 9.3.

Mapping on the Santa Isabel claim traced the vein in both outcrop and in underground workings. The extension of the vein on neighbouring claims was also defined. In outcrop, the vein mainly consists of calcite>quartz veinlets. It is only weakly exposed and is buried beneath alluvial cover on lower hill slopes and in valleys.

Reconnaissance of the Terremoto and adjoining El Inicio claim also revealed many small workings developed on several veins (Figure 9.4).

Small mine workings were developed on the Esperanza vein, located on the Terremoto claim. An adit had been driven about 40 m on the Esperanza vein (about 30 m on structure). The structure trends N45ºE and dips 56º southeast. Mineralization is banded quartz-sericite with pyrite (<1%) and traces of galena, sphalerite, possible argentite and manganese oxides. The structure is hosted in fine-grained green andesite with quartz-carbonate stockwork veining.

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Figure 9.3
Surface Map of the Santa Isabel and Terremoto Area in Northern Part of the San Pedro Sub-District

Figure provided by Endeavour Silver Corp. Figure dated January, 2012.

Table 9.3
Significant Assays for Rock Sampling in the Santa Isabel-Terremoto-Alajaa and Surrounding Claims

Sample ID Location Width (m) Au (ppm) Ag (ppm) Cu (%) Pb (%) Zn (%)
ESP-497 Santa Isabel 0.4 <0.05 52 0.007 0.007 0.050
ESP-498 Santa Isabel 0.25 <0.05 71 0.012 0.043 0.058
ESP-500 Santa Isabel 0.7 <0.05 352 0.091 1.145 0.415
ESP-502 Santa Isabel 0.3 <0.05 65 0.011 0.015 0.110
ESP-507 Santa Isabel 0.7 <0.05 274 0.044 0.136 0.170
ESP-508 Santa Isabel 0.4 <0.05 332 0.012 0.046 0.079
ESP-510 El Inicio 0.7 <0.05 78 0.018 0.034 0.035
ESP-512 El Inicio 0.3 <0.05 104 0.039 0.035 0.014
ESP-518 Santa Isabel 0.45 <0.05 74 0.022 0.040 0.096
ESP-519 Santa Isabel 0.3 <0.05 75 0.025 0.238 0.243
ESP-520 Santa Isabel 0.25 <0.05 168 0.089 0.184 0.263
ESP-526 Santa Isabel 0.3 <0.05 710 0.133 0.628 0.908
ESP-528 Terremoto 0.5 <0.05 58 0.030 0.127 0.133

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Sample ID Location Width (m) Au (ppm) Ag (ppm) Cu (%) Pb (%) Zn (%)
ESP-531 Terremoto 0.4 <0.05 71 0.013 0.015 0.010
ESP-534 Terremoto 0.7 <0.05 57 0.009 0.025 0.050
ESP-541 Terremoto 0.4 <0.05 55 0.013 0.015 0.034
ESP-544 Terremoto 0.2 0.14 123 0.062 0.041 0.017
ESP-546 Terremoto 0.3 <0.05 58 0.047 0.003 0.006
ESP-547 Terremoto 0.3 0.13 139 0.145 1.530 2.580
ESP-550 El Inicio 0.3 <0.05 64 0.007 0.102 0.125
ESP-555 El Inicio 0.3 <0.05 202 0.036 0.075 0.261
ESP-558 El Inicio 0.2 <0.05 207 0.075 0.054 0.154
ESP-559 El Inicio 0.25 <0.05 69 0.010 0.102 0.158
ESP-562 El Inicio 0.4 <0.05 2,150 0.299 1.760 4.020
ESP-563 El Inicio 0.2 <0.05 64 0.015 0.023 0.058
ESP-564 El Inicio 0.4 <0.05 103 0.019 0.050 0.124
ESP-566 El Inicio 0.3 <0.05 684 0.135 0.518 0.565
ESP-567 El Inicio 0.2 <0.05 880 0.098 0.262 0.477
ESP-568 El Inicio 0.65 <0.05 70 0.015 0.026 0.051
ESP-569 El Inicio 0.2 <0.05 278 0.064 0.185 0.335
ESP-570 El Inicio 0.4 <0.05 737 0.107 0.678 0.847
ESP-573 Terremoto 0.3 <0.05 118 0.032 0.176 0.219
ESP-577 Terremoto 0.8 <0.05 322 0.059 0.124 0.329
ESP-578 Terremoto 0.3 <0.05 116 0.042 0.126 0.173
ESP-593 Terremoto 0.2 <0.05 205 0.054 0.047 0.127
ESP-594 Terremoto 0.6 <0.05 111 0.035 0.018 0.059
ESP-597 Terremoto 0.35 <0.05 364 0.160 0.230 0.063
ESP-601 Santa Isabel 0.2 0.14 68 0.008 0.013 0.006
ESP-603 Santa Isabel 0.9 <0.05 15 0.010 0.036 0.007
ESP-848 Alondra Fracc. XXVIII 0.6 0.11 84 0.022 0.357 0.095
ESP-851 La Primavera 2 0.2 0.10 98 0.074 0.350 4.600
ESP-857 Alajaa 0.8 0.07 25 0.060 0.919 1.280
ESP-859 Alajaa 0.25 <0.05 103 0.056 3.250 0.043
ESP-860 Alajaa 0.75 <0.05 46 0.019 1.775 0.041
ESP-863 La Primavera 2 0.3 <0.05 39 0.045 1.040 1.965
ESP-869 La Primavera 2 0.2 0.18 93 0.028 0.466 0.668
ESP-871 La Primavera 2 0.8 0.19 159 0.225 10.900 18.950
ESP-872 La Primavera 2 1.25 <0.05 39 0.052 2.170 3.460
ESP-873 La Primavera 2 0.75 <0.05 62 0.080 2.090 5.750
ESP-874 La Primavera 2 0.2 <0.05 102 0.112 1.150 2.610
ESP-876 La Primavera 2 0.45 <0.05 91 0.080 2.390 4.760
ESP-881 La Primavera 2 0.2 <0.05 120 0.082 0.625 1.195
ESP-891 La Primavera 2 0.3 0.33 339 0.025 0.535 0.191
ESP-892 La Primavera 2 0.3 0.22 436 0.109 0.782 0.421
ESP-893 Alajaa 0.35 <0.05 114 0.066 0.608 1.450
ESP-895 Alajaa 0.3 <0.05 190 0.282 1.960 25.700
ESP-898 Alajaa 0.2 <0.05 283 0.577 9.680 15.650
ESP-911 Alajaa 0.35 0.10 239 0.201 3.050 3.960
ESP-914 Alajaa 0.35 <0.05 537 0.327 1.410 2.800
ESP-915 Alajaa 0.4 0.07 456 0.140 0.631 0.826
ESP-918 Alajaa 0.45 0.07 128 0.006 0.388 0.887

Table provided by Endeavour Silver Corp.

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Figure 9.4
Surface Geological Map of the Terremoto Claim Area in the Northern Part of the San Pedro Sub-District

Figure provided by Endeavour Silver Corp. Figure dated January, 2012.

In the face of the Esperanza adit, the Esperanza structure is intersected by a second narrow quartz vein trending N28ºW/50ºNE and containing pyrite (<1%), galena and possible sphalerite.

Samples were taken from the the hanging wall and footwall of the Esperanza vein. The footwall of the vein has pyrite (<1%), abundant manganese oxides and moderate to locally intense iron oxides. The hanging wall consists mainly of 10 cm wide stockwork veinlets in andesite with fine-grained pyrite (<1%) and minor manganese and iron oxides. Calcite associated with weak argillization is also present.

An un-named structure was also observed which consisted of a fault with a calcite>quartz vein containing manganese and iron oxides and iron carbonate. This vein/fault is 60 cm wide and trends N35ºE dipping 60º southeast. The hanging wall consists of weakly argillized fine grained green andesite with disseminated pyrite (<1%). The hanging wall andesite is cut by a calcite-quartz stockwork with veinlets ranging from >10 cm and <40 cm in width and thin veinlets of manganese oxides between 1 mm and 1 cm wide. The footwall is also fine-grained green andesite with pyrite (<1%), pyrolusite and weak oxidation.

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To the south of the Esperanza vein, a small mine working was developed on the Santa Cecilia vein. This vein consists of quartz with vuggy silica texture, minor calcite, moderate to intense iron and manganese oxides and pyrite (<1%). The vein has an average width of 80 cm and trends N35ºE and dips 67º southeast. The vein has currently been traced on surface for about 350 m.

Surface and underground geological mapping and sampling were also conducted on the Alajaa claim (Figure 9.5). The main objective was to map and establish continuity for the main structures in the area: the Santa Isabel, El Pozo and North veins.

Figure 9.5
Surface Map of the Alajaa Area

Figure provided by Endeavour Silver Corp. Figure dated January, 2012.

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Reconnaissance mapping located an old working excavated along a silicified and oxidized structure (possibly the Santa Isabel vein) with a variable width (20-50 cm) and comprised of quartz, managanese oxides, galena and traces of sphalerite.

Geological mapping also revealed another old working to the east of the Santa Isabel vein. This working was developed 147 m along a vein trending NE40ºSW/60ºSE with a variable width from 5 to 70 cm. Mineralization consisted of galena up to 5%, sphalerite-pyrite (1%) and possible traces of argentite. The host rock is silicified and propylitized andesite.

A 10 m deep shaft was sunk on the structure in the northwestern part. The structure consisted of thin quartz veinlets (5-15 cm) with galena 2-3%, pyrite-sphalerite (<1%) and traces of possible argentite.

The shaft was excavated at the intercept of two faulted and mineralized structures containing sulphides. The main structure is a vein-fault, trending NW24ºSE and NW14ºSE, dipping 72º-80º northeast, with 10-45 cm width. The intersecting structure appears to be part of the Santa Isabel vein system or parallel to it. The mineralogy is mainly lead and zinc sulphides in a gangue of quartz, pyrite, and iron and manganese oxides. The alteration consisted of strong oxidation and propylitization.

9.2.1.2      La Brisa

Overview

In 2011, Endeavour Silver acquired an option on the La Brisa and La Brisa 2 properties (90 hectares), located approximately 10 km southeast of its active Porvenir silver-gold mine in the Guanaceví district (Figure 9.6). Endeavour Silver has also secured through staking several new claims which include La Brisa 3, La Brisa 4, La Brisa 4 Fraccion 1, La Brisa 5 and La Gloria. These new claims cover 2,877 hectares and surround the La Brisa and La Brisa 2 properties, and cover possible extensions of recently identified veins.

The La Brisa veins have received little exploration work historically. This is probably because surface exposures of veins are typically narrow and low grade. Only shallow pits have been excavated on the veins but there has been no apparent production. The veins have never been drill tested.

In the La Brisa area, the principal mineralized veins are narrow, typically less than 50 cm, but swell to 1.5 m locally. The veins mainly consist of milky white chalcedony, light green in places, associated with banded and minor breccia textures. Bands of alternating white and black and/or grey chalcedony are also present. Colloform and calcite replacement textures are present but rare. Crystalline quartz is often observed and amethyst is seen in a few places. Iron and manganese oxides along with empty boxworks lined with iron oxides (after pyrite?) are common. Traces of cinnabar were identified at a few localities.

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Figure 9.6
Concession Map Showing the New Claims in the La Brisa Area

Figure provided by Endeavour Silver Corp. Figure dated January, 2012.

The La Brisa properties cover at least 4 km of strike length along the La Brisa vein system (Figure 9.7). All veins in the La Brisa area are hosted in a red-coloured rhyolite tuff which is weakly silicified immediately adjacent to the veins with a more widespread argillic halo. The rhyolite tuffs are believed to belong to the lowermost unit of the Upper Volcanic Series. Reconnaissance mapping has only revealed a small area of andesite belonging to the Lower Volcanic Series in the northeast part of the La Brisa area. A generalized geological cross-section transecting the La Brisa area is shown in Figure 9.8.

The La Leona and La Brisa veins are the most extensive veins identified on the property. These veins strike north-northwest and generally dip 70 to 80° to the west. The La Lupita vein is another significant vein which also trends north-northwest but has an opposite dip averaging 80° to the east. An old shallow working on the Lupita vein exposed a vein up to 40 cm wide.

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Figure 9.7
Surface Map of La Brisa Area showing the Veins Currently Identified

Figure provided by Endeavour Silver Corp. Figure dated January, 2012.

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Figure 9.8
Generalized Cross-Section looking Northwest across the La Brisa Area

Figure provided by Endeavour Silver Corp. Figure dated January, 2012.

Two additional veins, named Laura and Ranchito, have been mapped on the east side of the property. The Laura vein has been traced for 80 m along strike and has a maximum width of 1 m. The structure consists of a milky-banded-chalcedonic-opal (traces) quartz vein of white-light gray-red-light green-light brown colour and traces of iron and manganese oxides, oxide lined boxworks after pyrite and possible cinnabar. The Ranchito vein was traced for about 130 m along strike and has a maximum width of 1 m. The structure consists of milky-banded-crystalline-skeletal-chalcedonic quartz of white, light green to light yellow-red-gray colour and has iron and manganese oxides and traces of oxidized boxworks.

On the La Brisa 4 claim, abundant quartz float was observed, locally with high manganese oxide content. Two shafts were also found on La Brisa 4. One shaft was sunk to a 2.9 m depth on a 23 cm wide vein which branches into millimetre-wide veinlets. The second shaft was excavated on a series of veinlets <3 cm wide. The veins and veinlets contain minor fine-grained pyrite and galena.

In the southeast part of the La Brisa 4 claim, a vein-breccia occurrence was located. The vein was up to 1.2 m wide and exposed over a length of 8 m but continued as a fault thereafter. The vein-breccia consisted of a black calcite and minor white calcite matrix hosting rhyolitic and minor light green-red tuff fragments.

Other veins located in the La Brisa 4 claim include the following:

  • A vein with <0.70 m width and approximately 30 m long.

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  • A vein located in the northwest part of the La Brisa 4 claim about 70 m long, with 50 m of aligned float boulders, totaling 120 m. The outcrops consisted of a vein structure with a maximum width of 2.90 m and two aligned old workings.

  • A vein with <1.4 m width, located west of the previous vein and outcropping in the river. To the southeast is another vein, possibly the continuation, with <1.1 m width and approximately 85 m long.

On the La Brisa 5 claim, a new vein called Gina was discovered. This vein consisted of quartz with manganese and iron oxides. A parallel vein called Edith was also mapped and was up to 1.5 m wide, consisting of quartz with manganese and iron oxides.

In the southwest part of the La Brisa 5 Claim, a vein about 120 m long and <0.85 m wide was mapped. It consisted of chalcedonic-milky-crystalline quartz of black-red-white-light green colour, with abundant manganese oxide and minor iron oxide. The general trend of the vein is N-S/80-90ºW.

A fault was also located in the southeast part of La Brisa 5 claim, trending NW53ºSE and dipping south. The width is <1 m and the vein consits of iron oxide (limonite-hematite) with minor chlorite, quartz and manganese oxides.

In the south part of La Brisa 5 Claim, a fault-breccia was found containing silicified rhyolite fragments and traces of oxidized crystals. To the northwest, the fault contained large fragments, up to 1.0 by 0.30 m with abundant iron oxides. Further northwest, a fault with quartz and minor traces of oxidized crystals was mapped.

Reconnaissance mapping in the vicinity of La Brisa 4 and La Brisa 5, on adjoining claims (La Tinaja and San Jorge 2), also revealed numerous other veins.

On the Gloria claim, mapping revealed a stockwork zone comprised of quartz veinlets and calcite. The area of interest mainly consisted of brecciated quartz-calcite veins and veinlets located intermittently for about 350 m length with variable vein width from 0.80 to 0.05 m.

In the north part of the Gloria claim, quartz float, mainly less than 50 cm in size, was observed. The float consisted of milky-chalcedonic-banded-crystalline quartz of white-light gray-red (traces) to light brown (traces) colour with minor iron oxides.

Sampling Results

In 2011, Endeavour Silver’s exploration crews collected more than 400 rock and soil samples on the La Brisa properties. All samples collected were sent to ALS laboratories for analysis. This included 66 soil samples collected from a grid to the east of Leona and north of La Brisa and Lupita, as shown on Figure 9.7.

The veins in the La Brisa area returned elevated silver and gold grades, up to 11.5 g/t Ag and 5.47 g/t Au (Table 9.4; Figures 9.9 and 9.10) . The highest silver and gold grades were returned for the Leona and Lupita veins. Reconnaissance samples for the Leona vein returned values up to 0.18 g/t Au and 3 g/t Ag. The Lupita vein, discovered by Endeavour Silver’s exploration crews to the east of the La Brisa and La Brisa 2, yielded values up to 0.14 g/t Au and 7.5 g/t Ag.

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Table 9.4
Significant Geochemical Results for Rock Sampling in the La Brisa Area

Sample ID Location Width
(m)
Au
ppm
Ag
ppm
LB-002 Brisa 3 Float 0.028 1.6
LB-037 Brisa 3 Float 0.037 0.4
LB-071 Brisa 3 (Leona Vein) 1.30 0.026 3.0
LB-072 Brisa 3 (Leona Vein) 0.50 0.049 3.4
LB-073 Brisa 3 Float 0.055 0.6
LB-075 Brisa 3 (Leona Vein) Float 0.179 2.7
LB-077 Brisa 3 0.35 0.063 2.6
LB-078 Brisa 3 (Leona Vein) Float 0.140 <0.2
LB-082 Brisa 3 0.90 0.007 1.7
LB-094 Brisa 3 1.00 0.018 1.9
LB-097 Brisa 3 Float <0.005 1.1
LB-103 Brisa 3 (Lupita Vein) Float 0.139 7.5
LB-104 Brisa 3 Float 0.038 1.3
LB-105 Brisa 3 Float 0.070 1.8
LB-107 Brisa 3 0.20 0.024 2.7
LB-144 Brisa 3 Float 0.033 <0.2
LB-175 Brisa 3 Float 0.042 0.3
LB-219 Brisa 3 (Lupita Vein) Float 0.074 5.4
LB-221 Brisa 3 Float <0.005 0.2
LB-222 Brisa 3 Grab 0.036 1.3
LB-241 Brisa 3 1.10 0.043 0.5
LB-242 Brisa 3 1.10 0.049 1.4
LB-276 Brisa 3 (Leona Vein) 0.90 0.041 0.7
LB-277 Brisa 3 (Leona Vein) 0.55 0.054 0.8
LB-279 Brisa 3 (Leona Vein) 0.50 0.094 2.3
LB-280 Brisa 3 (Leona Vein) 0.70 0.047 1.7
LB-281 Brisa 3 (Lupita Vein) Float 0.034 0.9
LB-282 Brisa 3 (Lupita Vein) 1.00 0.060 1.2
LB-283 Brisa 3 (Lupita Vein) 0.10 0.063 2.9
LB-320 Brisa 4 0.45 0.08 4.6
LB-321 Brisa 4 0.70 0.07 4.8
LB-322 Brisa 4 1.00 0.09 3.7
LB-328 Brisa 4 0.12 0.04 6.0
LB-329 Brisa 4 0.10 0.03 6.4
LB-341 San Jorge 1.15 1.27 11.5
LB-343 San Jorge 0.50 5.47 4.5
LB-359 La Tinaja 0.80 0.46 3.4
LB-368 La Brisa Float <0.005 <0.2
LB-377 La Brisa 1.60 <0.005 <0.2
LB-378 La Brisa 0.60 <0.005 <0.2
LB-381 La Brisa 0.04 0.01 0.6

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Sample ID Location Width
(m)
Au
ppm
Ag
ppm
LB-382 La Brisa Float 0.01 8.3
LB-383 La Brisa 0.90 0.02 1.5
LB-403 La Brisa Float 0.03 4.1
LB-406 La Brisa Float <0.005 1.1
LB-407 La Brisa Grab <0.005 75
LB-408 La Brisa Grab <0.005 2.1
LB-413 La Brisa 0.50 0.11 7.7
LB-427 La Brisa Float 0.12 3.8

Table provided by Endeavour Silver Corp.

Figure 9.9
Surface Map showing Silver Values for Rock Samples Collected in the La Brisa Area

Figure provided by Endeavour Silver Corp. Figure dated January, 2012.

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Figure 9.10
Surface Map showing Gold Values for Rock Samples Collected in the La Brisa Area

Figure provided by Endeavour Silver Corp. Figure dated January, 2012.

Anomalous values for epithermal pathfinder elements, such as mercury, arsenic and antimony, were also obtained. Anomalous values for these elements ranged up to 900 ppm for antimony, 839 ppm for arsenic and 36 ppm for mercury. The distributions of anomalous mercury, arsenic and antimony values are shown on Figures 9.11, 9.12 and 9.13.

Base metal values (copper, lead and zinc) for all La Brisa samples were low. The most significant values were returned for sample LB-407 which contained 3,930 ppm copper, 14,250 ppm lead and 610 ppm zinc for a sample of brecciate rhyolite with abundant hematite and manganese oxide and traces of limonite.

No significant assays were returned for samples collected in the Gloria area. All of these samples returned values < 0.01 ppm Au and < 0.2 ppm Ag.

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Figure 9.11
Surface Map showing Mercury Values for Rock Samples Collected in the La Brisa Area

Figure provided by Endeavour Silver Corp. Figure dated January, 2012.

Figure 9.12
Surface Map showing Arsenic Values for Rock Samples Collected in the La Brisa Area

Figure provided by Endeavour Silver Corp. Figure dated January, 2012.

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Figure 9.13
Surface Map showing Antimony Values for Rock Samples Collected in the La Brisa Area

Figure provided by Endeavour Silver Corp. Figure dated January, 2012.

Summary and Conclusions

Exploration fieldwork in the La Brisa area appears to have traced a possible southeast extension of the Santa Cruz vein system currently being exploited by Endeavour Silver in the Porvenir mine. Prospecting to-date has identified veins and related alteration in what may be the upper expression of a major vein system, similar to the northwest-trending Santa Cruz vein system.

The La Brisa vein system displays similar surface alteration and trace element geochemistry to those structures actively being mined at the Porvenir mine. Veining, related alteration and gold-silver-mercury-arsenic-antimony geochemical anomalies are developed along a strong northwest-trending structural system. The presence of anomalous silver and gold values with low base metals also indicates that the exposed veins are very high within the zoning pattern expected for Guanaceví district epithermal veins.

The La Brisa vein system also has classic boiling textures (ie. colloform banding and bladed quartz replacing calcite). Given that the La Brisa property sits at a higher elevation than the favourable "bonanza" silver-gold ore horizon in the Santa Cruz vein system, future work will focus on exploring these veins at depth.

In September, 2011, a surface drilling exploration program commenced on the La Brisa properties to test the veins at depth.

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10.0      DRILLING

Endeavour Silver’s previous drilling programs on the Guanaceví Mines project have been described in previous Technical Reports. This section discusses the general drilling and core logging procedures, as well as focusing on the 2011 drilling programs.

10.1      GENERAL DISCUSSION

No changes have occurred to the methods of outlining and surveying the locations of the drill holes since the publication of the previous Micon reports. However, for completeness of this report, the following description of Endeavour Silver’s drilling procedures has been excerpted from the prior reports.

10.1.1      Drilling Procedures

After review and approval by management of the planning and budgeting of the drilling programs proposed by Endeavour Silver geologists, the individual drill sites are prepared and surveyed. Drill holes are typically drilled from the hanging wall, perpendicular to and passing through the target structure, into the footwall. No drilling is designed for intercept angles less than about 35° to the target, and most are from 45 to 90°. Drill holes are typically HQ to NQ size in diameter.

On the drill site, the drill set-up is surveyed for azimuth, inclination and collar coordinates with the drilling subject to daily scrutiny and coordination by Endeavour Silver geologists. At or near the targeted drill hole depth, the hole is surveyed using a Reflex down-hole survey instrument in multi-shot mode. The instrument is lowered down the drill rod string by wireline (the core barrel has been removed) and extended through the bit, where it hangs unsecured by resting on the bit crown. Survey measurements are thus obtained at a depth of approximately 4 m below the end of the drill string and at 30 m to 50 m intervals from the bottom of the hole to the collar. The survey data obtained from the drill hole are transferred to a handheld PDA, by which the data are transferred to the office and thence to the Vulcan mine planning software and AutoCAD databases. True thicknesses are estimated from the measured inclination of the drill hole intercept and the interpreted dip of the vein.

Drill core is collected daily and carried to a secure core storage building where it is laid out, measured, logged for geotechnical and geological data, and marked for sampling.

Depending on the competency of the core, core is either cut in half with a diamond bladed core saw or split with a pneumatic core splitter.

The core storage facilities at Guanaceví are well protected by high level security fences and are under 24 hours surveillance by security personnel. This arrangement minimizes any possibility of tampering with the drill cores.

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10.1.2      Ballmark Core Orientation System

In 2009, Endeavour Silver implemented the Ballmark Oriented Core System for its drilling programs in San Pedro. The most important benefit of this system is its inherent design for accurate measurement of the orientation of mineralized structures, faults and fractures.

The Ballmark system is designed to accurately orient drill core as and when the core is broken from the bottom of the hole. It does this by indent marking a soft disc with a non-magnetic free moving ball which, because of gravity, lies at the bottom or low side of an angled hole.

Ballmark is unique in that it marks the orientation of the core at the time the core is broken, as compared to all other systems that return to the bottom of the hole after the event (breaking the core) to try to measure or mark the profile of the hole bottom or the 'stub' left in hole. Because of this basic difference, there is no downtime in the drilling cycle and the drill rig continues working at its normal pace, without delays to the operation.

The Ballmark system works by utilizing the action of the inner tube back end during core breaking, which transfers load to the outer tube via compression of a spring (Figure 10.1). The system is then able to indent a previously aligned soft disc, using a ceramic ball.

Figure 10.1
The Ballmark Core Orientation System

Figure provided by Endeavour Silver Corp.

By breaking core after the drill string has stopped rotating, a ballmark is created on the soft disc (Figure 10.2). This mark can then be transposed to the core resulting in consistent, accurate core orientation. This also produces a permanent record (the disc) of the core orientation information.

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Figure 10.2
Permanent Core Orientation Information is Created on a Soft Disc of the Ballmark System

Figure provided by Endeavour Silver Corp.

10.1.3      Core Logging Procedures

In 2011, Endeavour Silver continued using its drill hole data collection and data management system for its exploration projects.

The configuration setup by Century Systems Technologies Inc. was previously selected for this purpose (Figure 10.3). Century was chosen because it directly interfaces with other software such as Vulcan, MapInfo and ArcGIS. The configuration selected was as follows:

  • DHLogger for drill hole data collection, management and reporting, which runs on a Windows XP or Vista computer.

  • DHLite for drill hole data collection, which runs on a handheld Windows mobile computer. Fusion Client to move data back and forth between the local computer and the server(s).

Figure 10.3
Century’s Configuration for Drill Hole Data Collection for the Guanaceví Mines Project

Figure provided by Endeavour Silver Corp.

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In 2008, Endeavour Silverestablished logging codes and other database organization and implemented the Century data collection and data management system at Guanaceví.

Each project is captured into a DHLogger stand-alone database. The database comes in two files that can be easily copied to the office for backup and sharing of the data.

Only one person can be adding data to a project’s database at a given time in DHLogger but many people can be logging drill holes on DHLite at the same time.

The data are captured at the project or in the office and the database files can be posted to a secure area in the office for others to copy to their computer and view.

10.2      2011 DRILLING PROGRAM AND RESULTS

10.2.1      2011 Surface Drilling Program

In 2011, exploration drilling at Guanaceví focused on exploring the Santa Cruz vein structure to the north of the Porvenir mine, including on the Milache claim, and to the south, in the Santa Cruz and Alex Breccia areas. Exploration drilling also focused on searching for new high-grade silver-gold-base metal mineralized zones in the San Pedro sub-district located in the northern part of the Guanaceví district, as well as in the La Brisa area, situated in the southern part.

10.2.1.1      2011 San Pedro Sub-District Diamond Drilling Program

During 2011, Endeavour Silver continued its exploration programs in the San Pedro sub-district of Guanaceví to follow-up on previous discoveries and to identify new zones of silver (gold)-lead-zinc mineralization.

In 2011, exploration drilling in the San Pedro sub-district focused on four areas:

  1.

Epsilon-Soto: Follow-up drilling of high-grade silver-gold intercepts obtained in 2008 and 2010 on the Epsilon and Soto veins located in the northwestern part of San Pedro.

     
  2.

La Blanca-Mi Niña: Testing of high-grade silver-gold veins exposed in trenches which are parallel to, and in the hanging wall of, the Veronica vein, which Endeavour Silver drilled in 2008 and 2010.

     
  3.

Santa Isabel: Testing of the mineralized structures identified in the Santa Isabel area.

     
  4.

San Joaquin: Testing of the mineralized structures identified in the San Joaquin area.

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In 2011, surface diamond drilling continued in San Pedro sub-district using one drill rig provided by Layne. By mid-December, 2011, Endeavour Silver had completed a total of 13,430 m in 51 holes (Table 10.1).

Table 10.1
Summary for San Pedro Sub-District 2011 Surface Diamond Drilling Program

Hole
Azimuth
Dip
Diameter
Total Depth
(m)
Start Date
Finish Date
Epsilon-Soto
EPS1-3 256º -44º HQ 323.10 11/01/2011 19/01/2011
EPS1-4 233º -74º HQ 76.20 19/01/2011 20/01/2011
EPS1-4B 232º -74º HQ 369.00 21/01/2011 28/01/2011
EPS3-4 256º -44º HQ 490.65 01/02/2011 12/02/2011
EPS5-1 233º -44º HQ 311.05 13/02/2011 19/02/2011
ST4S-1 270º -45º HQ 344.50 23/06/2011 30/06/2011
ST6S-1 270º -52º HQ 255.95 01/07/2011 05/07/2011
ST5S-1 270º -58º HQ 277.50 06/07/2011 10/07/2011
ST0-1 270º -52º HQ 317.50 10/07/2011 15/07/2011
ST2S-1 270º -57º HQ 280.30 16/07/2011 20/07/2011
ST8S-1 270º -63º HQ 301.20 21/07/2011 25/07/2011
ST9S-1 270º -45º HQ 359.65 25/07/2011 01/08/2011
ST3S-1 270º -77º HQ 332.65 01/08/2011 05/08/2011
ST1S-1 270º -66º HQ 332.40 06/08/2011 11/08/2011
      Subtotal 4,371.65    
             
La Blanca – Mi Niña
BC-07 290º -55º HQ 149.40 20/02/2011 23/02/2011
BC-08 290º -66º HQ 133.95 23/02/2011 26/02/2011
BC-09 290º -45º HQ 100.40 25/02/2011 28/02/2011
BC-10 290º -45º HQ 103.55 01/03/2011 02/03/2011
BC-11A 295º -62º HQ 12.15 03/03/2011 03/03/2011
BC-11 291º -50º HQ 73.05 04/03/2011 05/03/2011
      Subtotal 572.5    
             
Santa Isabel
SI09-1 240º -76º HQ 130.80 05/03/2011 08/03/2011
SI09-2 241º -50º HQ 289.55 08/03/2011 12/03/2011
SI10-1 241º -72º HQ 240.90 13/03/2011 16/03/2011
SI01-1 241º -47º HQ 152.30 17/03/2011 19/03/2011
SI02-1 241º -60º HQ 141.40 20/03/2011 22/03/2011
SI02-2 240º -49º HQ 216.35 22/03/2011 25/03/2011
SI02-3 240º -78º HQ 256.10 25/03/2011 28/03/2011
SI01-2 241º -82º HQ 334.95 29/03/2011 02/04/2011
CC01-1 310º -45º HQ 201.15 03/04/2011 05/04/2011
CC01-2 310º -86º HQ 140.30 05/04/2011 07/04/2011
SI11-1 241º -45º HQ 341.25 20/04/2011 25/04/2011
SI12-1 241º -73º HQ 481.80 26/04/2011 03/05/2011
SI08.5S-1 224º -45º HQ 201.00 30/05/2011 01/06/2011
SI07S-1 241º -45 HQ 236.15 01/06/2011 05/06/2011
SI06S-1 241º -76 HQ 286.65 06/06/2011 09/06/2011
SI02-4 241º -71 HQ 332.40 10/06/2011 14/06/2011
SI02-5 241º -50 HQ 298.80 15/06/2011 19/06/2011
SI01-3 241º -51 HQ 297.75 19/06/2011 23/06/2011
AL01-1 315º -45º HQ 164.50 07/09/2011 11/09/2011
AL02-1 315º -60º HQ 186.05 12/09/2011 14/09/2011

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Hole
Azimuth
Dip
Diameter
Total Depth
(m)
Start Date
Finish Date
      Subtotal 4,930.15    
             
San Joaquin
JQ09-1 225º -45º HQ 112.65 08/04/2011 09/04/2011
JQ09-2 225º -60º HQ 219.45 10/04/2011 13/04/2011
JQ09-3 225º -86º HQ 176.85 13/04/2011 15/04/2011
JQ10-1 225º -70º HQ 103.65 16/04/2011 17/04/2011
JQ10-2 225º -85º HQ 216.55 17/04/2011 20/04/2011
JQ09-4 225º -55º HQ 451.25 04/05/2011 10/05/2011
MA06-1 281º -45º HQ 353.40 10/05/2011 15/05/2011
JQ00-1 225º -48º HQ 544.60 16/05/2011 29/05/2011
JQ01-1 225º -45º HQ 536.45 12/08/2011 21/08/2011
JQ06-1 200º -45º HQ 429.20 22/08/2011 28/08/2011
JQ05-1 188º -49º HQ 411.65 29/08/2011 06/09/2011
      Subtotal 3,555.7    
             
      Total 13,430.0    

Table provided by Endeavour Silver Corp.

10.2.1.2      2011 San Pedro Sub-District Surface Diamond Drilling Results

In January, 2011, surface diamond drilling continued to follow-up high-grade silver-gold intercepts previously obtained on the Epsilon and Soto veins in the San Pedro sub-district. By August, Endeavour Silver had completed a total of 4,372 m in 14 holes in this target area (Table 10.1, Figure 10.4).

Surface diamond drilling in the Epsilon-Soto area continued to intercept veins and mantos containing silver-gold-base metal mineralization. Mineralization mainly occurs in the Soto and Epsilon vein structures. These structures are hosted either in Tertiary volcaniclastic andesite or in the underlying and older Guanaceví conglomerates.

The Soto vein structure is mainly a stockwork zone comprised of banded and brecciated, crystalline and milky white quartz-calcite-chlorite+/-rhodonite veinlets containing disseminated pyrite (<5%), minor sphalerite, traces of galena and rare argentite.

The high-grade vein intercepted in Hole EPS1-4B, in the hanging wall of the Soto vein, consisted of a banded quartz vein with minor calcite and disseminated sphalerite, galena and argentite. This vein assayed 2,435 g/t silver, 2.18 g/t gold, 0.2% lead and 0.5% zinc over a 0.9 m true width. The host rock is Guanaceví conglomerate (JKcog).

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Figure 10.4
Surface Drill Hole Map of the Epsilon – Soto Area, San Pedro Sub-District, Guanaceví (Completed Holes are shown in Black)

Figure provided by Endeavour Silver Corp. Figure dated January, 2012.

Other drilling highlights included 299 g/t silver and 0.69 g/t gold over a 0.5 m true width for a vein intercepted in hole EPS1S-1 and 364 g/t silver, 0.79 g/t gold, 0.2% lead and 0.3% zinc over 1.2 m true width for a manto intercepted in hole ST0-1.

The Soto vein intercepts are shown on the longitudinal section in Figure 10.5 and the drilling results are summarized in Table 10.2.

Figures 10.6 and 10.7 depict typical cross-sections showing several of the holes drilled to test the Epsilon and Soto vein structures in the San Pedro sub-district of Guanaceví.

Figure 10.5
Longitudinal Section (looking West) showing Intersection Points on the Soto Vein

Figure provided by Endeavour Silver Corp. Figure dated January, 2012.

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Table 10.2
2011 Summary of the Epsilon-Soto Diamond Drilling Results

Hole Vein From
(m)
To
(m)
Core
Length (m)
True
Width (m)
Silver
(g/t)
Gold
(g/t)
Lead
(%)
Zinc
(%)
EPS1-3 Soto Vein 247.35 247.75 0.40 0.35 80 0.22 0.17 0.21
EPS1- 4B Vein 221.95 222.95 1.00 0.88 2,435 2.18 0.19 0.45
Including 221.95 222.35 0.40 0.36 5,320 4.57 0.43 1.09
Soto Vein 285.10 285.75 0.65 0.50 <5 <0.05 0.00 0.01
EPS3-4 Soto Vein 231.25 232.60 1.35 1.28 17 0.10 0.01 0.04
Including 231.25 231.55 0.30 0.28 39 0.11 0.04 0.12
EPS5-1 Soto Vein 300.90 301.20 0.30 0.30 72 0.22 0.04 0.21
ST9S-1 Vein 153.00 154.55 1.55 1.33 24 0.10 0.03 0.05
Vein 157.45 157.90 0.45 0.25 65 0.39 0.02 0.01
Soto Vein 229.05 229.55 0.50 0.49 61 0.24 0.37 0.24
ST8S-1 Soto Vein 203.10 203.40 0.30 0.25 22 0.18 0.10 0.15
ST6S-1 Soto Vein 195.95 196.25 0.30 0.28 3 0.05 0.00 0.01
ST5S-1 Soto Vein 230.35 232.60 2.25 1.98 80 0.21 0.02 0.04
Including 232.30 232.60 0.30 0.26 204 0.40 0.07 0.15
ST4S-1 Soto Vein 213.85 214.25 0.40 0.35 13 0.05 0.00 0.02
ST3S-1 Vein 153.55 155.00 1.45 1.31 87 0.12 0.03 0.01
Soto Vein 291.30 292.00 0.70 0.49 7 0.04 0.01 0.01
ST2S-1 Soto Vein 208.40 208.70 0.30 0.23 25 0.50 0.03 0.03
ST1S-1 Vein 214.25 214.75 0.50 0.45 299 0.69 0.04 0.06
Soto Vein 250.30 252.45 2.15 1.60 36 0.10 0.02 0.03
Including 250.65 251.00 0.35 0.27 133 0.34 0.03 0.02
ST0-1 Vein 234.60 234.90 0.30 0.26 66 0.21 0.37 0.53
Vein 236.60 236.90 0.30 0.29 56 0.21 0.01 0.02
Soto Vein 237.80 238.95 1.15 1.00 77 0.29 0.03 0.04
Including 237.80 238.10 0.30 0.25 258 0.81 0.06 0.11
Manto Zone 287.55 289.15 1.60 1.23 364 0.79 0.19 0.28

Table provided by Endeavour Silver Corp.

La Blanca – Mi Niña Target Area

During February and March, 2011, surface diamond drilling continued on Endeavour Silver’s Veronica concession to follow-up high-grade silver-gold intercepts returned from surface trenches and previously intersected in drill holes testing the La Blanca and Mi Niña veins in the San Pedro sub-district. Endeavour Silver completed a total of 573 m in 6 holes in La Blanca-Mi Niña target area (Table 10.1, Figure 10.8).

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Figure 10.6
Cross-Section through Hole ST0-1 Drilled to Test the Soto Vein in the Epsilon-Soto Area

Figure provided by Endeavour Silver Corp. Figure dated January, 2012.

84



Figure 10.7
Cross-Section through Holes EPS1-1B, EPS1-2, EPS1-3 and EPS1-4B Drilled to Test the Soto Vein in the Epsilon Area

Figure provided by Endeavour Silver Corp. Figure dated January, 2012.

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Figure 10.8
Surface Drill Hole Map of the Veronica Area, San Pedro Sub-District, Guanaceví
(Completed Holes from 2008 to 2010 are shown in Black and those completed in 2011 are shown in Blue)

Figure provided by Endeavour Silver Corp. Figure dated January, 2012.

The La Blanca and Mi Niña structures mainly consist of oxidized quartz-calcite+/-sericite+/-clay veins and stockwork with disseminated pyrite (<5%) and traces of galena, sphalerite and argentite. The host rock is mainly Guanaceví conglomerate but, in places, the hangingwall of the Mi Niña structure is andesite.

In 2011, assay results for drilling completed on the La Blanca and Mi Niña veins were generally low-grade. The most significant intercept was on the La Blanca vein in hole BC-08 which ran 162 g/t silver and 0.34 g/t gold over a 1.6 m true width. This intercept consisted of a banded vein with drusy quartz crystals, disseminated pyrite and traces of galena. The vein was moderately oxidized and hosted in Guanaceví conglomerate (JKcog).

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The La Blanca vein intercepts are shown on the longitudinal section in Figure 10.9 with the drilling results summarized in Table 10.3.

Figure 10.10 is a typical cross-section showing hole BC-08 drilled to test the La Blanca vein structure in the San Pedro sub-district of Guanaceví.

Figure 10.9
Longitudinal Section (Looking Southeast) showing Intersection Points on the La Blanca Vein

Figure provided by Endeavour Silver Corp. Figure dated January, 2012.

Santa Isabel Target Area

In March, 2011, surface diamond drilling commenced to test the mineralized structures identified during reconnaissance mapping in the Santa Isabel target area of the San Pedro sub-district. By the middle of September, Endeavour Silver had completed a total of 4,930 m in 20 holes in the Santa Isabel area (Figure 10.11).

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Table 10.3
2011 Summary of the La Blanca – Mi Niña Diamond Drilling Results

Drill
Hole ID
Vein From
(m)
To
(m)
Core Length
(m)
True Width
(m)
Ag
(g/t)
Au
(g/t)
Pb (%) Zn (%)
BC-07 La Blanca Vein 99.50 101.40 1.90 1.56 25 0.12 0.0033 0.0088
Mi Niña Vein 35.45 41.35 5.90 1.53 45 0.18 0.0188 0.0067
BC-08 La Blanca Vein 87.35 89.45 2.10 1.61 162 0.34 0.0118 0.0090
Mi Niña Vein 33.35 45.30 11.95 1.66 38 0.09 0.0055 0.0081
BC-09 La Blanca Vein 63.90 65.75 1.85 1.72 18 0.08 0.0226 0.0172
Mi Niña Vein 19.65 22.90 3.25 1.72 12 0.09 0.0031 0.0098
BC-10 La Blanca Vein 65.90 67.60 1.70 1.56 25 0.15 0.0421 0.0439
Mi Niña Vein 15.30 18.00 2.70 1.74 34 0.26 0.0018 0.0047
BC-11 La Blanca Vein 46.80 48.75 1.95 1.67 28 0.17 0.0051 0.0074

Table provided by Endeavour Silver Corp.

Figure 10.10
Cross-Section through Holes VE1-3 and BC-08 Drilled to Test the La Blanca Structure and Vein
Interepts in the La Blanca-Mi Niña Area

Figure provided by Endeavour Silver Corp. Figure dated January, 2012.

88



Figure 10.11
Surface Map showing Completed Holes (Black) in the Santa Isabel Area

Figure provided by Endeavour Silver Corp. Figure dated January, 2012.

89



Surface diamond drilling in the Santa Isabel area intercepted several veins containing silver-gold-base metal mineralization. Mineralization mainly occurs on the Santa Isabel vein and related structures. These structures are hosted primarily in Tertiary volcaniclastic andesite.

The Santa Isabel target is mainly comprised of a quartz-calcite+/-rhodochrosite vein with varying textures (banded, brecciated, massive) and containing disseminated galena, sphalerite and minor pyrite. The host rock is andesite (Kms-a).

Drilling highlights for the Santa Isabel target included 204 g/t silver and 0.07 g/t gold over a 1.7 m true width, (including 1,755 g/t silver and 0.22 g/t gold over a 0.2 m true width), for the Santa Isabel vein in hole SI09-1, 979 g/t silver, 1.51 g/t gold, 0.8% lead and 17.3% zinc over a 0.3 m true width for a narrow vein in the footwall of the Santa Isabel vein in hole SI07-1, and 483 g/t silver, 0.25 g/t gold, 0.6% lead and 0.8% zinc over 1.1 m true width for a narrow vein in the footwall of the Santa Isabel vein in hole SI02-3.

The vein intercepts are shown in Figure 10.12, a longitudinal section of the Santa Isabel vein, and the drilling results are summarized in Table 10.4.

Figures 10.13 and 10.14 depict typical cross-sections showing several of the holes drilled to test the Santa Isabel vein structures in the San Pedro sub-district of Guanaceví.

Figure 10.12
Longitudinal Section (Looking Northeast) showing Intersection Points on Santa Isabel Vein

Figure provided by Endeavour Silver Corp. Figure dated January, 2012.

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Table 10.4
2011 Summary of the Santa Isabel Area Diamond Drilling Results

Hole Vein From
(m)
To
(m)
Core Length
(m)
True Width
(m)
Silver
(gpt)
Gold
(gpt)
Lead
(%)
Zinc
(%)
SI06S-1 Santa Isabel vein
vein
129.95 130.25 0.30 0.23 36 0.03 0.08 0.16
164.40 166.15 1.75 1.12 65 0.05 0.32 0.41
SI07S-1 Santa Isabel vein
vein
82.95 83.40 0.45 0.45 2 0.01 0.02 0.04
177.60 177.90 0.30 0.28 979 1.51 0.84 17.25
SI08.5S-1 Santa Isabel vein
vein
117.30 117.60 0.30 0.27 102 0.13 1.67 2.77
155.55 157.10 1.55 1.23 92 0.07 0.31 0.81
SI01-1 Santa Isabel vein
vein
vein
59.15 59.45 0.30 0.15 468 0.11 0.31 0.72
105.10 106.40 1.30 0.88 40 0.03 0.77 0.86
136.60 138.05 1.45 1.07 93 0.03 0.18 0.28
SI01-2 Cecilia vein
Santa Isabel vein
Including
vein
vein
117.35 117.70 0.35 0.29 1 <0.01 0.00 0.01
126.90 128.10 1.20 0.85 139 0.01 0.08 0.13
127.80 128.10 0.30 0.21 288 0.02 0.20 0.32
207.95 209.95 2.00 1.02 272 0.03 1.04 3.39
291.50 293.60 2.10 0.93 84 0.07 0.25 1.36
SI01-3 Santa Isabel vein
vein
113.00 113.30 0.30 0.28 64 0.03 0.02 0.05
185.20 186.55 1.35 1.03 38 0.03 0.15 0.43
SI02-1 Santa Isabel vein
vein
57.40 58.45 1.05 0.83 25 0.03 0.06 0.15
84.20 84.55 0.35 0.27 208 0.03 0.22 0.26
SI02-2 vein
Cecilia vein
Including
Santa Isabel vein
Stockwork
vein
vein
22.30 22.60 0.30 0.28 232 0.03 0.03 0.06
41.95 45.10 3.15 2.37 64 0.03 0.10 0.27
44.75 45.10 0.35 0.29 120 0.03 0.55 1.55
107.75 108.90 1.15 0.71 31 0.03 0.02 0.06
157.85 162.55 4.70 2.06 66 0.03 0.01 0.02
164.10 165.55 1.45 0.62 59 0.03 0.01 0.03
178.65 180.10 1.45 0.72 121 0.03 0.07 0.14
SI02-3 vein
vein
Cecilia vein
vein
Santa Isabel vein
Including
vein
vein
33.80 34.35 0.55 0.19 61 0.01 0.02 0.03
50.85 51.40 0.55 0.32 89 0.05 0.08 0.15
52.40 53.05 0.65 0.42 47 0.01 0.01 0.02
60.00 60.30 0.30 0.21 108 0.02 0.01 0.01
158.40 160.05 1.65 0.83 54 0.03 0.17 0.33
158.40 158.70 0.30 0.15 140 0.06 0.16 0.26
209.75 210.10 0.35 0.22 175 0.02 0.05 0.09
223.15 224.80 1.65 1.07 483 0.25 0.56 0.84
SI02-4 vein
vein
Santa Isabel vein
Stockwork
vein
vein
vein
69.70 70.10 0.40 0.10 38 0.03 0.05 0.11
127.60 128.25 0.65 0.17 197 0.03 0.86 0.65
207.85 211.25 3.40 2.44 12 0.01 0.01 0.03
218.80 223.05 4.25 2.08 17 0.02 0.02 0.07
230.35 230.65 0.30 0.19 403 0.03 0.70 0.90
267.85 269.55 1.70 1.51 103 0.05 0.09 0.16
311.75 312.05 0.30 0.25 234 0.17 0.25 0.41
SI02-5 vein
vein
Santa Isabel vein
vein
vein
65.80 66.80 1.00 0.57 51 0.03 0.01 0.02
138.90 139.55 0.65 0.42 229 0.03 0.08 0.27
149.45 149.90 0.45 0.19 21 0.03 0.50 1.85
251.25 252.65 1.40 0.53 163 0.03 0.14 0.32
287.50 288.05 0.55 0.14 124 0.03 0.30 0.75
SI09-1 Santa Isabel vein
Including
75.25 77.75 2.50 1.69 204 0.07 0.01 0.03
77.50 77.75 0.25 0.19 1,755 0.22 0.06 0.17
SI09-2 La Morena vein
Santa Isabel vein
10.15 11.75 1.60 1.39 35 0.06 0.00 0.01
153.65 154.40 0.75 0.45 3 0.03 0.00 0.00
SI10-1 Santa Isabel vein 190.20 193.30 3.10 2.01 15 0.07 0.06 0.05
SI11-1 Morena vein
Santa Isabel vein
105.60 106.60 1.00 0.99 2 0.02 0.00 0.01
249.15 249.40 0.25 0.23 7 0.03 0.00 0.01
SI12-1 Morena vein
Santa Isabel vein
160.85 161.50 0.65 0.61 8 0.02 0.01 0.02
475.05 475.45 0.40 0.20 49 0.03 1.31 3.46
AL01-1 vein
Ale vein
118.00 118.55 0.55 0.52 9 0.01 0.10 0.13
120.35 120.95 0.60 0.59 17 0.03 0.03 0.05
AL02-1 Ale vein 133.25 135.80 2.55 2.37 41 0.05 0.39 0.64
CC01-1 Cecilia vein
Including
68.70 70.00 1.30 1.08 73 0.02 0.23 1.07
69.20 69.65 0.45 0.42 151 0.04 0.55 2.67
CC01-2 Cecilia vein
Including
116.20 118.55 2.35 1.97 71 0.01 0.11 0.02
116.20 116.50 0.30 0.26 489 0.03 0.80 0.09

Table provided by Endeavour Silver Corp.

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Figure 10.13
Cross-Section through Holes SI02-1, SI02-2, SI02-3 and SI02-4 Drilled to Test the Santa Isabel Vein in the Santa Isabel Area

Figure provided by Endeavour Silver Corp. Figure dated January, 2012.

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Figure 10.14
Cross-Section through Holes SI09-1 and SI09-2 Drilled to Test the Santa Isabel Vein in the Santa Isabel Area

Figure provided by Endeavour Silver Corp. Figure dated January, 2012.

San Joaquin Target Area

In April, 2011, surface diamond drilling commenced to test the mineralized structures identified in the San Joaquin target area of the San Pedro sub-district. By September, Endeavour Silver had completed a total of 3,556 m in 11 holes in the San Joaquin area (Table 10.1; Figure 10.15).

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Figure 10.15
Surface Map Showing Completed Holes (Black) in the San Joaquin – Ale Area

Figure provided by Endeavour Silver Corp. Figure dated January, 2012.

Surface diamond drilling in the San Joaquin area intercepted several veins containing silver-gold-base metal mineralization. Mineralization mainly occurs on the San Joaquin vein and related structures. These structures are hosted primarily in either Tertiary volcaniclastic andesite or the underlying Guanaceví conglomerate.

The San Joaquin vein structure consists primarily of quartz-calcite+/-chlorite and/or fluorite with fine disseminations of galena, sphalerite and traces of argentite. In shallower holes, the vein is either banded or brecciated in places with fragments of mainly fine-grained green andesite. The host rock is andesite (Kms-a) in the shallower holes. In deeper holes, the San Joaquin vein is hosted in Guanaceví conglomerate (JKcog), which is strongly silicified locally.

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Drilling highlights for the San Joaquin target included 213 g/t silver, 0.05 g/t gold, 1.4% lead and 2.8% zinc over a 2.8 m true width for the San Joaquin vein in hole JQ09-2, and 1,005 g/t silver, 0.14 g/t gold, 1.7% lead and 3.3% zinc over a 1.2 m true width for a narrow vein in the hanging wall of the San Joaquin vein in hole JQ00-1.

Drilling results are summarized in Table 10.5 and vein intercepts are shown on the longitudinal section portrayed on Figure 10.16.

Table 10.5
2011 Summary of the San Joaquin Area Diamond Drilling Results

Hole Vein From
(m)
To
(m)
Core Length
(m)
True Width
(m)
Silver
(gpt)
Gold
(gpt)
Lead
(%)
Zinc.
(%)
JQ00-1 Vein
Paloma Vein
Stockwork
Vein
San Joaquin Vein
Vein
Vein
Vein
Stockwork
269.60 271.35 1.75 1.19 1,005 0.14 1.73 3.25
288.10 288.55 0.45 0.29 208 0.03 0.21 0.33
344.75 346.00 1.25 0.97 108 0.03 1.51 2.72
357.20 361.25 4.05 1.50 53 0.05 2.76 6.13
415.80 416.50 0.70 0.54 150 0.13 0.03 1.75
431.00 431.35 0.35 0.25 73 0.10 0.11 12.00
450.40 450.70 0.30 0.21 97 0.10 0.16 0.17
469.50 470.90 1.40 1.00 55 0.08 0.29 5.27
507.25 508.80 1.55 0.95 33 0.10 0.58 7.27
JQ01-1 Vein
Vein
Vein
San Joaquin Vein
73.90 76.10 2.20 1.15 38 0.02 0.02 0.06
159.70 160.10 0.40 0.17 117 0.03 0.48 0.10
395.00 395.50 0.50 0.38 81 0.03 0.16 3.76
427.95 428.55 0.60 0.56 12 0.03 0.06 0.85
JQ05-1 Vein
Vein
San Joaquin Vein
147.75 148.20 0.45 0.32 120 0.03 0.12 0.27
173.40 173.70 0.30 0.21 127 0.03 0.01 0.02
337.35 338.30 0.95 0.89 32 0.02 0.06 0.14
JQ06-1 San Joaquin Vein
Including
321.45 323.15 1.70 1.63 78 0.07 0.22 0.57
322.35 322.65 0.30 0.28 237 0.19 0.33 0.76
JQ09-1 San Joaquin Vein 55.45 56.50 1.05 0.99 13 0.01 0.01 0.02
JQ09-2 San Joaquin Vein
Including
92.40 96.70 4.30 2.76 213 0.05 1.40 2.82
92.40 92.75 0.35 0.22 466 0.05 3.95 7.57
JQ09-3 San Joaquin Vein 117.05 119.00 1.95 1.49 29 0.04 0.19 0.21
JQ09-4 San Joaquin Vein
Including
281.45 290.50 9.05 6.94 13 0.02 0.29 0.23
289.80 290.10 0.30 0.27 69 0.05 4.85 3.77
JQ10-1 San Joaquin Vein 84.70 86.30 1.60 0.73 16 0.03 0.62 0.91
JQ10-2 San Joaquin Vein 155.85 156.40 0.55 0.32 280 0.03 2.52 1.64
MA06-1 Miranda Vein
Marissa Vein
83.05 83.55 0.50 0.41 296 0.11 1.12 1.85
325.00 325.40 0.40 0.38 302 0.32 0.75 1.68

Table provided by Endeavour Silver Corp.

Figures 10.17 and 10.18 depict typical cross-sections showing several of the holes drilled to test the San Joaquin vein structures in the San Pedro sub-district of Guanaceví.

95






Figure 10.17
Cross-Section through Holes JQ09-1, JQ09-2, JQ09-3 and JQ09-4 Drilled to Test the San Joaquin Vein in the San Joaquin Area

Figure provided by Endeavour Silver Corp. Figure dated January, 2012.

97



Figure 10.18
Cross-Section through Hole JQ00-1 Drilled to Test the San Joaquin Vein in the San Joaquin Area

Figure provided by Endeavour Silver Corp. Figure dated January, 2012.

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10.2.1.3      2011 Milache Surface Diamond Drilling Program and Results

In September, 2011, surface diamond drilling continued on the Milache claim to follow-up silver-gold intercepts previously obtained on the Santa Cruz vein structure. One drill rig provided by Layne was used for Milache surface drilling. Endeavour Silver completed a total of 2,380.85 m in five holes in 2011 (Table 10.6 and Figure 10.19).

Table 10.6
Summary for Milache 2011 Surface Diamond Drilling Program

Drill Hole Azimuth Dip Diameter Total Depth (m) Start Date Finish Date
MCH1.5-1 45º -76º HQ 446.10 15/09/2011 22/09/2011
MCH1.5-2 45º -86º HQ 500.25 22/09/2011 02/10/2011
MCH-09 08º -77º HQ 404.75 03/10/2011 11/10/2011
MCH-10 48º -56º HQ 489.90 12/10/2011 20/10/2011
MCH-11 48º -68º HQ 539.85 22/10/2011 02/11/2011
      Total 2,380.85    

Table provided by Endeavour Silver Corp.

Figure 10.19
Surface Map showing Completed Drill Holes from 2008 (Black) and 2011 (Blue) in the Milache Area

Figure provided by Endeavour Silver Corp. Figure dated January, 2012.

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Surface diamond drilling on the Milache claim continued to intercept the Santa Cruz vein and related structures containing silver-gold mineralization. These structures are mainly hosted either in Tertiary volcaniclastic andesite (Kms-a). Guanaceví conglomerate (JKcog) was observed in some deeper holes. Guanaceví conglomerate wall rock adjacent to the vein is intensely silicified in some places.

The Santa Cruz vein structure is mainly comprised of white quartz and minor calcite and/or chlorite with disseminated pyrite, minor iron oxide, and traces of galena, sphalerite and argentite. Banding is common and brecciation occurs locally.

The Santa Cruz footwall vein intercepted in drill hole MCH-10 consisted of a banded quartz vein, milky white to clear, with traces of fine disseminated galena and argentite. The host rock is intensely silicified andesite.

Drilling highlights included 775 g/t silver and 2.75 g/t gold over a 6.75 m true width for the Santa Cruz vein intercepted in drill hole MCH1.5 -1 and 440 g/t silver and 0.83 g/t gold over a 1.2 m true width for a vein in the footwall of the Santa Cruz vein intercepted in hole MCH-10.

Drilling results are summarized in Table 10.7 and the Santa Cruz vein and related intercepts are shown on the longitudinal section in Figure 10.20.

Figures 10.21 and 10.22 depict typical cross-sections showing several of the holes drilled to test the Santa Cruz vein structure in the Guanaceví district.

Table 10.7
Summary of the 2011 Milache Diamond Drilling Results

Hole Vein From
(m)
To
(m)
Core Length
(m)
True Width
(m)
Silver
(g/t)
Gold
(g/t)
MCH1.5-1 Santa Cruz Vein 355.70 364.65 8.95 6.75 775 2.75
Including 363.90 364.65 0.75 0.57 1,380 4.13
MCH1.5-2 Santa Cruz Vein 457.75 460.85 3.10 1.78 155 0.40
Including 460.25 460.85 0.60 0.34 472 1.49
MCH-09 Santa Cruz Vein 368.10 370.30 2.20 1.56 6 0.03
FW Santa Cruz Vein 398.60 400.75 2.15 1.62 66 0.17
Including 398.60 398.90 0.30 0.23 287 0.68
MCH-10 Santa Cruz Vein 386.35 388.00 1.65 1.53 169 0.69
Including 387.50 388.00 0.50 0.46 260 1.04
FW Santa Cruz Vein 406.40 408.15 1.75 1.65 440 0.83
Including 407.85 408.15 0.30 0.28 680 0.78
MCH-11 Santa Cruz Vein 446.95 447.40 0.45 0.36 140 0.28
FW Santa Cruz Vein 456.55 456.90 0.35 0.30 22 0.21

Table provided by Endeavour Silver Corp.

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Figure 10.21
Cross-Section through Holes MCH1.5 -1 and MCH1.5 -2 Drilled to Test the Santa Cruz Vein in the Milache Area

Figure provided by Endeavour Silver Corp. Figure dated January, 2012.

102



Figure 10.22
Cross-Section through Holes MCH-10 and MCH-11 Drilled to Test the Santa Cruz and Vein Intercepts in the Milache Area

Figure provided by Endeavour Silver Corp. Figure dated January, 2012.

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10.2.1.4      2011 La Brisa Surface Diamond Drilling Program and Results

In 2011, surface diamond drilling commenced in the La Brisa area using one drill rig provided by Layne. By mid-December, 2011, Endeavour Silver had completed a total of 988.15 m in five holes (Table 10.8 and Figure 10.23).

Table 10.8
Summary for La Brisa 2011 Surface Diamond Drilling Program

Hole Azimuth Dip Diameter Total
Depth (m)
Start Date Finish Date
LE08-1 79º -46º HQ 187.55 04/11/2011 08/11/2011
LE10-1 79º -50º HQ 191.25 08/11/2011 13/11/2011
LE10-2 79º -72º HQ 315.25 13/11/2011 24/11/2011
BR01-1 90º -45º HQ 86.65 25/11/2011 29/11/2011
BR01-2 90º -63º HQ 207.45 29/11/2011 11/12/2011
      Total 988.15    

Table provided by Endeavour Silver Corp.

Figure 10.23
Surface Map showing Completed Holes in the La Brisa Area

Figure provided by Endeavour Silver Corp. Figure dated January, 2012.

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In the La Brisa area, the geology consists of a porous and silicified sequence of rhyolitic volcanic rocks (tuffs, sandstone, volcanic breccias and ignimbrites). Initial drilling has been difficult due to a lack of water, loss of circulation, the hardness of the rock and some sandy horizons. This has resulted in slow drilling advance, high consumption of additives, water and bits. One hole also had to be abandoned because the drill rods became stuck and could not be extracted from the hole.

The Leona structure mainly consisted of a broken and brecciated fault zone, locally containing abundant iron and manganese oxides, principally on fractures, and fine, disseminated partially oxidized pyrite (<1%). Locally, the structure is silicified with quartz veinlets. Silicified rhyolite fragments are also observed to be present in places.

The La Brisa vein intercepted in hole BR01-2 consisted of a brecciated zone with mainly grey and clear quartz fragments with strong manganese oxide coatings.

Hole BR01-1 was lost before intercepting the projection of the La Brisa vein.

Drill intercepts of the Leona and La Brisa vein structures so far have returned only low-grade values of <10 g/t silver and <0.005 g/t gold.

Intercepts of the Leona and La Brisa vein structures are shown on the longitudinal sections in Figures 10.24 and 10.25.

Figure 10.26 is a cross-section through Holes LE10-1 and LE10-2 drilled to test the Leona vein in the La Brisa area.

Figure 10.27 is a cross-section through Holes BR01-1 and BR01-2 drilled to test the La Brisa vein in the La Brisa area.

105









Figure 10.26
Cross-Section through Holes LE10-1 and LE10-2 Drilled to Test the Leona Vein in the La Brisa Area

Figure provided by Endeavour Silver Corp. Figure dated January, 2012.

108



Figure 10.27
Cross-section through Holes BR01-1 and BR01-2 Drilled to Test the La Brisa Vein in the La Brisa Area

 Figure provided by Endeavour Silver Corp. Figure dated January, 2012.

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10.2.2      2011 Underground Drilling Program

10.2.2.1      North Porvenir Mine Surface Diamond Drilling Program and Results

In 2011 surface drilling was continued in order to increase the mines understanding of the extent of the mineralization within the Santa Cruz vein in the Porvenir North Zone 1 area, thereby potentially increasing the resources and reserves at the mine. The program was conducted using the drill contracting firm Corebeil Mexico S.A. de C.V. (Corebeil Mexico). By the end of 2011, a total of 7 drill holes had been carried out totalling 3,586.50 m. Table 10.9 summarizes the holes drilled and their corresponding information.

Table 10.9
Summary of the Surface Drill Holes Conducted in the Porvenir North Zone 1 Area

Area Drill Hole
Number
Drilling Date Drill Hole Collar Coordinates Azimuth (°) Dip (°) Depth (m)
Start Finish East North Elevation
NORTH PORVENIR ZONE 1 HOLES SURFACE PS-654-01 21/01/2011 08/02/2011 399681.98 2867540.83 2390.84 40 -55 408.00
PS-656-01 08/02/2011 24/02/2011 399571.19 2867488.52 2414.15 48 -58 576.00
PS-656-02 24/02/2011 09/03/2011 399572.68 2867489.56 2414.01 48 -76 619.50
PS-633-02 10/03/2011 23/03/2011 399830.22 2867396.09 2368.37 38 -79 481.50
PS-625-01 23/03/2011 07/04/2011 399819.70 2867240.41 2371.72 28 -79 574.50
PS-589-01 29/04/2011 19/05/2011 400226.37 2867162.42 2510.18 30 -80 370.50
PS-598-01 20/05/2011 04/06/2011 399906.50 2867129.69 2410.06 74 -67 556.50

Table provided by Endeavour Silver Corp.

Figure 10.28 shows the points of intersection for each drill hole with its respective data. In some drill holes there are 2 structures with the hanging wall the upper structure and footwall the lower structure.

During 2011, the program underwent some changes as it was decided to explore the central zone of Porvenir North Central area with drilling from inside the mine and with short drilling from the surface near the border with Frisco Minera Frisco S.A. de C.V. (Frisco). The drilling in the Porvenir North Central area from inside the mine consisted of 4 holes totalling of 754 m and the drilling from the surface in Porvenir North Zone 2 comprized 9 holes totalling 1,743 m. The primary objective of the Porvenir North Zone 2 was to increase the knowledge regarding the extent of the Santa Cruz vein above the 3125 level and below the boundary with Frisco. Similarly in the Porvenir North Central area below the 3148 level both to the north and south.

Tables 10.10 and 10.11 summarize the holes drilled for these two zones with the drilling conducted by the same drilling company. Figure 10.29 is a longitudinal section with the points of intersection and results obtained during the underground mine drilling in the Porvenir North Central area and Figure 10.30 is a longitudinal of the drilling results for the Porvenir North Zone 2 near the border with Frisco.

110



Figure 10.28
Longitudinal showing the 2011 Drill Hole Intersection Points for the North Porvenir Zone 1
(Looking Northeast)

Figure provided by Endeavour Silver Corp. Figure dated January, 2012.

Table 10.10
Summary of the 2011 Underground Drill Holes Porvenir North Central, Santa Cruz Vein

Area Drill Hole Drilling Date Drill Hole Collar Coordinates Azimuth (°) Dip (°) Depth (m)
Number Start Finish East North Elevation
PORVENIR CENTRAL HOLES UNDERGROUND PU-554-01 12/10/2011 21/10/2011 400443.00 2866960.00 2237.00 80 -50 183.50
PU-558-03 02/11/2011 11/11/2011 400443.00 2866960.00 2237.00 0 -90 230.50
PU-558-01 21/10/2011 24/10/2011 400443.00 2866960.00 2237.00 46 -50 138.50
PU-558-02 25/10/2011 31/10/2011 400443.00 2866960.00 2237.00 45 -75 201.50

Table provided by Endeavour Silver Corp.

Table 10.11
Summary of the 2011 Surface Drill Holes Porvenir North Zone 2, Santa Cruz Vein

Area Drill Hole
Number
Drilling Date Drill Hole Collar Coordinates Azimuth (°) Dip (°) Depth (m)
Start Finish East North Elevation
NORTH PORVENIR ZONE 2 HOLES SURFACE PS-606-01 10/08/2011 13/08/2011 400256.20 2867420.89 2435.03 21 -63 153.00
PS-605-01 16/08/2011 20/08/2011 400256.07 2867420.36 2435.08 21 -80 201.00
PS-611-01 23/08/2011 26/08/2011 400226.65 2867457.65 2420.93 14 -72 159.00
PS-617-02 26/08/2011 30/08/2011 400142.72 2867480.86 2403.99 26 -72 186.00
PS-617-01 30/08/2011 02/09/2011 400145.25 2867481.04 2404.18 33 -53 150.00
PS-628-03 02/09/2011 06/09/2011 400080.50 2867586.63 2369.56 45 -86 184.50
PS-638-04 06/09/2011 12/09/2011 399945.29 2867599.01 2372.16 45 -79 268.50
PS-638-03 12/09/2011 17/09/2011 399945.44 2867599.15 2372.16 45 -71 220.50
PS-633-01 19/09/2011 23/09/2011 399946.39 2867597.96 2372.10 75 -57 220.50

Table provided by Endeavour Silver Corp.

111



Figure 10.29
Longitudinal Section Indicating the Drill Intersections and Results for the Porvenir North Central Area

Figure provided by Endeavour Silver Corp.

Figure 10.30
Longitudinal Section Indicating the Drill Intersections and Results for the Porvenir North Zone 2 Area
(Looking Northeast)

Figure provided by Endeavour Silver Corp.

112



Drill hole PS-633-02 intersected the best mineralization in the Porvenir North Central area, with grades of 439 g/t silver and 0.66 g/t gold over an actual width of 1.49 m. The drill hole intersected the Santa Cruz vein approximately 100 m below the lowest level mined when the position of the hole is vertically projected. Figure 10.31 is a cross-section through drill hole PS-633-02.

Figure 10.31
Cross-Section through 2011 Drill Hole PS-633-02 (Infill Hole) and Other Holes on the Same Section

Figure provided by Endeavour Silver Corp.

113



Hole PS-617-01 in the Porvenir North Zone 2 area was the most positive drilled, with results of 566 g/t silver and 1.14 g/t gold, over an actual width of 1.47 m. Followed by hole PS-606-01 with results of 251 g/t silver and 0.52 g/t gold, over a thickness of 3.00 m in the hangingwall structure with 237 g/t silver and 0.38 g/t gold over a thickness of 1.98 m in the footwall structure. Followed by hole PS-611-01 with results of 111 g/t of silver and 0.18 g/t of gold, with a thickness of 2.36 m in the hangingwall structure and 240 g/t of silver with 0.38 g/t of gold with a thickness of 1.67 m in the footwall structure. The results for drill hole PS-605-01 were 111 g/t of silver and 0.40 g/t of gold, over a thickness of 1.29 m in the hangingwall structure and 84 g/t of silver with 0.22 g/t of gold over a thickness of 1.21 m in the footwall structure.

Figure 10.32 is a cross-section through drill holes PS-605-01 and PS-606-01 as well as previous holes drilled on the section. Figure 10.33 is a cross-section through drill hole PS-611-01 in the Porvenir North Zone 2 to verify the existance of ther Santa Cruz vein.

Figure 10.32
Cross-Section through Drill Holes PS-605-01 and PS-606-01, as well as Previous Holes on the Section

Figure provided by Endeavour Silver Corp.

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Figure 10.33
Cross-Section through Drill Hole PS-611-01, as well as Previous Holes on the Section

Figure provided by Endeavour Silver Corp.

The results for the diamond drilling program in the Porvenir North Central area indicate that drill hole PU-554-01 contained the best results with 229 g/t of silver and 0.72 g/t of gold over an actual width of 1.73 m. The next drill hole of importance was PU-558-02, which intersected 118 g/t of silver and 0.20 g/t of gold over a thickness of 1.36 m.

Figure 10.34 is a cross-section through drill hole PU-554-01 in the Porvenir North Central area.

115



Figure 10.34
Cross-Section through Drill Hole PU-554-01 in the Porvenir North Central Area

Figure provided by Endeavour Silver Corp.

116



10.2.2.2      Santa Cruz Mine Underground Diamond Drilling Program and Results

At the Santa Cruz mine underground drilling program the was conducted to cut the Santa Cruz vein at different depths from the previous exploration area down to the unexploited areas below the old workings. The goal of the program was to demonstrate that economic mineralization could continue at depth in order to increase the resources and possible reserves in this portion of the mine. In addition a number of infill drill holes were conducted to verify the information from previous drill holes. In total, 16 holes were drilled in the Santa Cruz underground program. The holes were drilled by Corebeil México S.A. de C.V. (Corebeil México) an independent conractor. Table 10.12 summarizes the drill hole statistics for the 2011 Santa Cruz mine drilling program.

Table 10.12
Summary of the 2011 Drill Hole Statistics for the Santa Cruz Mine

Area Drill Hole
Number
Drilling Date Drill Hole Collar Coordinates Azimuth (°) Dip (°) Depth (m)
Start Finish East North Elevation
SANTA CRUZ HOLES UNDERGROUND PU-460-01 25/04/2011 06/05/2011 401085.00 2866161.00 2160.00 360 -65 169.50
PU-463-01 07/05/2011 16/05/2011 401085.00 2866161.00 2160.00 360 -48 174.00
PU-456-01 17/05/2011 27/05/2011 401085.00 2866161.00 2160.00 360 -90 201.50
PU-452-01 28/05/2011 04/06/2011 401085.00 2866161.00 2160.00 66 -84 177.50
PU-453-01 04/06/2011 10/06/2011 401085.00 2866161.00 2160.00 70 -87 150.50
PU-440-01 13/06/2011 18/06/2011 401200.00 2866053.00 2160.00 0 -90 210.50
PU-446-01 18/06/2011 21/06/2011 401200.00 2866053.00 2160.00 16 -55 117.00
PU-443-01 22/06/2011 24/06/2011 401200.00 2866053.00 2160.00 31 -76 147.50
PU-481-01 30/06/2011 07/07/2011 400935.00 2866238.00 2165.00 24 -46 189.50
PU-475-01 09/07/2011 16/07/2011 400935.00 2866238.00 2165.00 14 -60 162.50
PU-480-01 18/07/2011 27/07/2011 400935.00 2866238.00 2165.00 360 -47 186.50
PU-477-01 28/07/2011 04/08/2011 400935.13 2866238.48 2165.00 360 -68 198.50
PU-482-01 11/08/2011 19/08/2011 400858.12 2866266.86 2160.00 33 -63 218.00
PU-473-01 20/08/2011 02/09/2011 400935.13 2866238.48 2165.00 35 -70 252.50
PU-481-02 21/09/2011 07/10/2011 400858.12 2866266.86 2160.00 45 -80 294.50
PU-475-02 03/09/2011 16/09/2011 400935.13 2866238.48 2165.00 18 -75 270.50

Table provided by Endeavour Silver Corp.

Figure 10.35 is a longitudinal section ilustrating the intersection points for each drill hole with their corresponding results. This image includes previous drill holes in the area.

The most significant result was from drill hole PU-475-01 which intersected 114 g/t of silver and 0.06 g/t of gold over a thickness of 1.29 m in the hangingwall structure and 1,150 g/t of silver and 0.24 g/t of gold over a thickness of 2.60 m in the footwall structure. Drill hole PU-477-01 intersected 1,054 g/t of silver and 3.63 g/t of gold over a thickness of 3.63 m in the hangingwall structure and 501 g/t of silver with 0.80 g/t of gold over a thickness of 2.24 m in the footwall structure. Drill hole PU-456-01 intersected 864 g/t of silver and 2.35 g/t of gold, over a thickness of 1.95 m in the hangingwall structure and 578 g/t of silver with 1.03 g/t of gold over a thickness of 4.31 m in the footwall structure. The deepest drill hole PU-475-01 intersected 244 g/t of silver and 0.27 g/t of gold over a thickness of 1.95 m in the hangingwall structure and 578 g/t of silver with 1.03 g/t of gold over a thickness of 4.31 m in the footwall structure.

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Figure 10.35
Longitudinal Section with Drill Hole Intersections for the Santa Cruz Mine

Figure provided by Endeavour Silver Corp.

Figure 10.36 is a cross-section through drill holes PS-477-01 and PU-480-01 in the Santa Cruz mine. Figure 10.37 is a cross-section through drill hole PU-473-01 (infill) in the Santa Cruz mine. Figure 10.38 is a cross-section through drill holes PU-456-01, PU-460-01 and PU-463-01 in the Santa Cruz mine.

118



Figure 10.36
Cross-Section of Drill Holes PS-477-01 and PU-480-01 in the Santa Cruz Mine

Figure provided by Endeavour Silver Corp.

119



Figure 10.37
Cross-Section of Drill Hole PU-473-01 in the Santa Cruz Mine

Figure provided by Endeavour Silver Corp.

120



Figure 10.38
Cross-Section through Drill Holes PU-456-01, PU-460-01 and PU-463-01 in the Santa Cruz Mine

Figure provided by Endeavour Silver Corp.

121



10.2.2.3      Alex Breccia Zone Surface Diamond Drilling Program and Results

As a check against the results which were obtained from previous drilling by regional exploration and the results obtained from direct sampling a decision was made to initiate drilling in Breccia Alex zone towards the north extent of of the property. This drilling was conducted to be able to define if the resources could continue to be increased in this area. The drilling in this area was also conducted by Corebeil México. Table 10.13 summarizes the drill hole statistice for the Alex Breccia program.

Table 10.13
Summary of the 2011 Drill Hole Statistics for the Alex Breccia Zone

Area Drill Hole Drilling Date Drill Hole Collar Coordinates Azimuth (°) Dip (°) Depth (m)
Number Start Finish East North Elevation
ALEX BRECCIA
HOLES SURFACE
BAS-391-03 15/11/2011 02/12/2011 401288.16 2865545.30 2536.82 60 -45 525.50

Table provided by Endeavour Silver Corp.

The results from this drilling program are shown in Figure 10.39 which is a longitudinal section which contains the drill hole intersection points as well as the results for silver and gold.

Figure 10.39
Longitudinal Section of the Breccia Alex Zone with the 2011 Drilling Intersection Points

Figure provided by Endeavour Silver Corp.

122



The 2011 surface diamond drilling exploration program in the area of the Alex Breccia zone which was to verify the behavior and persistence of the Santa Cruz vein contained only one drill hole. The hole was projected 70 m below the 3204 sill. The results for drill hole BAS-391-03 were low with 23 g/t of silver and 0.02 g/t of gold intersected over a width of 1.50 m. Drilling from the surface will be continued in 2012.

Figure 10.40 is a cross-section through drill hole BAS-391-03 in the Alex Breccia zone.

Figure 10.40
Cross-Section through Drill Hole BAS-391-03 in the Alex Breccia Zone

Figure provided by Endeavour Silver Corp.

123



10.3      MICON COMMENTS

Micon has reviewed the 2011 exploration programs and notes that the programs were conducted according to the exploration best practices as outlined by the CIM and with a good QA/QC program in place to ensure acquisition of the best possible data for its exploration expenditures. Micon concludes that the data acquired by Endeavour Silver through its exploration programs for the Guanaceví Mines project can be used in estimating the mineral resources and ultimately the mineral reserves.

124



11.0      SAMPLE PREPARATION, ANALYSES AND SECURITY

11.1      SAMPLING METHOD AND APPROCH

A description of Endeavour Silver’s sampling method and approach for the Guanaceví Mines project was provided in previous Technical Reports by Range, (March, 2006) and Micon (April, 2007, March, 2009, March, 2010 and March, 2011). Endeavour Silver personnel have made no material changes to the sampling method and approach since the publication of the March, 2011, Micon report. However, for completeness of this report, the description from the March, 2011, report has been excerpted and edited where appropriate.

11.1.1      Sampling Intervals

Sampling intervals range from about 0.3 m to 2.5 m, with most in the 0.5 m to 1.5 m range. The Endeavour Silver geologist uses geological criteria to select sample intervals. Quartz vein material is separated from hanging wall and footwall horizons, and internal vein samples are broken out by texture type. Three principal types of vein textures are recognized: (a) massive, (b) banded and (c) brecciated. As much as possible, vein samples are selected to represent mineralization episodes.

11.1.2      Underground Sampling Methodology

Mine samples are collected principally for grade control purposes but are also used to build up a channel sample database for resource estimation purposes. Samples are collected from sills and in stopes. Sill samples are taken from the development face on a blast-by-blast basis. All sampling starts from the footwall and proceeds towards the hanging wall, with sample limits based on geological contacts. In stopes, and in sills if time permits, samples are taken from the back and footwall side-wall. In general, footwall waste samples are not taken systematically, although at least one footwall sample is normally taken in a sampling session, depending on wherever the footwall is veined or sulphide rich. If the vein is present in the footwall side-wall, it is sampled. Side-wall channel samples are measured vertically, whilst back samples are measured horizontally. Channel sampling is generally at 2.5 m intervals but can be increased to 5 m intervals in areas where the geology and grade distribution are well known. Samples are taken using a hammer and chisel; if the back is too high, a scaling bar is also used to chip the sample off.

Sample locations underground are measured from a known reference point, an identified control point installed by Endeavour Silver surveyors. All grade control samples are bagged in heavy duty polyurethane bags with a commercially prepared sample ticket inserted in the bag, and the sample number marked on the bag exterior with marker pen. All sample information is noted in a field notebook and later transferred to daily information sheets in the office. Basic sample information is also noted on sample ticket slips which are stored in the mine geology department office.

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11.1.3      Density Determinations

11.1.3.1      Exploration Samples

No bulk density samples were analyzed from exploration drilling programs in 2009 through 2011. Density determinations from previous drilling programs were used for converting volumes to tonnes for the 2011 year-end resource estimates for the San Pedro area, Porvenir Cuatro, and the Santa Cruz mine.

11.1.3.2      Mine Samples

Bulk density samples were collected from the mines in the Guanaceví operation throughout 2010. The majority of samples came from Porvenir North and Porvenir Dos. Insufficient samples were taken from the Porvenir Cuatro and Santa Cruz mines during 2010 to be useful for determining density. There was no e collection of density samples in 2011. Earlier samples were sent for analysis to the Stewart Group laboratory facility in Zacatecas, Mexico. Results have been received for 179 samples collected and are summarized in Table 11.1. A program is in place to collect and analyze density samples regularly on a monthly basis for both mineralized and non-mineralized rock types. A specific gravity value of 2.55, based on past production data, was used for converting volumes to tonnes for the year-end 2011 reserves. This value is within the acceptable range based on the results to date.

Table 11.1
Bulk Density Determinations for Mine Samples from Porvenir North and Porvenir Dos

Statistics Porvenir
North
Porvenir
Dos
Porvenir
Cuatro
Santa
Cruz
Number of Data 134 35 4 6
Mean 2.53 2.50 2.59 2.51
Median 2.52 2.49 2.59 2.52
Standard Deviation 0.088 0.124 0.023 0.070
Sample Variance 0.008 0.015 0.001 0.005
C.V. 0.035 0.049 0.009 0.028
IQR 2.47 - 2.57 2.46 - 2.54 2.58 - 2.61 2.45 - 2.56
Minimum 2.26 2.29 2.56 2.43
Maximum 2.94 3.00 2.61 2.60
Range 0.68 0.72 0.05 0.17

Table provided by Endeavour Silver Corp.

11.2      MICON COMMENTS REGARDING ENDEAVOUR SILVER’S SAMPLING PROCEDURES

Endeavour Silver’s sampling protocols for evaluation purposes (underground and surface drill cores) follow the current CIM exploration best practice guidelines and this provides a degree of confidence regarding the validity and integrity of the database used for the resource and reserve estimates.

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For production scheduling, channel chip sampling may not attain a perfectly representative sample due to the hardness of the material being sampled, as usually softer material is sampled preferentially. However, the practice of chip sampling is common around the world for underground deposits and the practice of systematically sampling the faces, backs or walls of development drifts on a close spacing (5 m or less) tends to generate a very large set of samples which, in most cases, is statistically representative of the material being sampled. Endeavour Silver’s underground sampling procedure is in line with current industry practices and standards, and is essentially being used for grade control purposes.

Endeavour Silver’s evaluation drilling samples are representative, since the HQ and/or NQ core size used yields almost 100% core recovery and provides a large enough sample size. There are no known factors that may result in sample biases. Production channel chip samples are yielding the desired result of differentiating ore from waste. The quality of the bulk density samples collected is demonstrated by the results being consistent with previous determinations. No drilling, sampling or recovery factors have been identified that could result in sampling bias or otherwise materially impact the accuracy and reliability of the assays and, hence, of the resource database.

Tables of the significant drilling assay results for the Porvenir Cuatro, San Pedro sub-district (Noche Buena and Buena Fé) and the North Porvenir mine are included in Section 10, as part of the discussion regarding the drilling program results, and will not be reproduced here. No table of significant underground sampling assay results is included here as the underground assays are part of the mine grade control program.

11.3      QUALITY CONTROL / QUALITY ASSURANCE (QA/QC) PROGRAM

Endeavour Silver imposes and maintains various QA/QC protocols on sampling and assay procedures, including duplicates, standards, blanks and check analyses to monitor the integrity of assay results.

11.3.1      Sampling

11.3.1.1      Mine Channel Samples

Mine chip channel samples and mill feed belt samples are prepared and analyzed at the Metalurgica Guanaceví (MG) laboratory, Endeavour Silver’s in-house laboratory at the Guanaceví Mines project.

Grade control channel samples, which were used for stope based reserve estimates, are prepared and analyzed at the in-house laboratory. The sample preparation procedure for samples was the following: Samples are received and checked in by laboratory staff; moist samples are dried for 2 to 4 hours; otherwise samples are crushed to -½ inch in a primary jaw crusher; samples are split using a 1 inch or ½ inch Jones splitter; 100 to 150 g of sample is retained for pulverizing and is put in a metal tray, along with a pulp envelope; remaining coarse rejects are returned to their original bag along with the sample ticket and stored; the 150 g crushed sample is then dried at a temperature of 100° C. The dried sample is pulverized in a ring pulverizer to -80 mesh; the pulverized sample is stored in a numbered envelope. The procedures for the mine channel sample preparation have been the same since 2008.

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11.3.1.2      Exploration Core Samples

All exploration drill core is transported to the secure core storage facility at the Santa Cruz mine site. Sampling procedures typically begin with splitting by either a wheel-driven manual splitting device or an electric diamond-bladed core saw. The wheel-driven manual splitting device is generally used only when the core is badly broken-up and cannot be effectively cut by the diamond-bladed core saw. One half of the core is replaced in the original core box with depth markers, and the other half is bagged with sample tickets and recorded in the sample record. Once samples are bagged, they are transported to an outside laboratory.

Since 2009, all drill core samples were sent to ALS-Chemex (ALS). ALS maintains a preparation facility in Chihuahua, where 50 g pulps are prepared and shipped to Vancouver, Canada for analysis. ALS emails assay data results to Endeavour Silver geologists and then returns the pulps to Guanaceví for storage at the core building at the Santa Cruz mine site.

All of Endeavour Silver’s drill core samples are bagged and tagged at the Guanaceví Mines project. Upon arrival at the laboratory, all samples are logged into the laboratory’s tracking system. Then the entire sample is weighed, dried and fine crushed to better than 70% passing 2 mm. A sample split of up to 250 g is then taken and pulverized to 85% passing 75 microns.

Sampling procedures and assay results are considered to be reasonably representative of the mineralization of the deposits and may be used with acceptable confidence in the estimation of the resources and reserves.

11.3.2      Analysis

11.3.2.1      Mine/Grade Control Samples

At the MG laboratory, a 20 g sample is removed from the 100 g pulp and subjected to fire assay determination of gold and silver contents. Subsequent splits of the pulp are used for lead, zinc, copper, manganese and iron analyses by atomic adsorption (AA). Pulp and rejects are returned to the geology department within 1 to 3 days. The geology department selects pulps and rejects to be returned for re-assay. This methodology became fully operational in June, 2009, and was maintained throughout 2010 and 2011.

Endeavour Silver also uses outside laboratory assay facilities for check assaying.

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11.3.2.2      Exploration Samples

All of Endeavour Silver’s exploration samples of rock and drill core were bagged and tagged at the Guanaceví warehouse and shipped to the ALS preparation facility in Chihuahua, Mexico. After preparation, the samples were shipped to the ALS laboratory in Vancouver, Canada, for analysis.

Upon arrival at the ALS preparation facility, all of the samples are logged into the laboratory’s tracking system (LOG-22). Then the entire sample is weighed, dried if necessary, and fine crushed to better than 70% passing 2 mm (-10 mesh). The sample is then split through a riffle splitter and a 250 g split is then taken and pulverized to 85% passing 75 microns (-200 mesh).

In April 2011, Endeavour Silver changed the analytical procedures used for exploration samples. Up until this time, the analytical procedure used for gold and silver was a fire assay followed by a gravimetric finish. The lower detection limits for this procedure were 0.05 g/t for gold and 5 g/t for silver.

A gravimetric finish is generally acceptable for ore-grade samples. However, for lower grade exploration samples, this analytical procedure often gives more variable results. In order to obtain less variable results, the analytical procedures were changed to those described below.

The analytical procedure for the gold mineralization was changed to a fire assay followed by an atomic adsorption (AA) analysis. A 30 g nominal pulp sample weight is used. The detection range for the gold assay is 0.005 to 10 ppm, or 5 to 10,000 ppb.

The analytical procedure for the silver mineralization was changed to an aqua regia digestion followed by an AA analysis. The detection range for the silver assay is 0.2 ppm to 100 ppm.

These analytical methods are optimized for low detection limits.

The assays for evaluation of higher-grade silver (+/- gold) mineralization were also optimized for accuracy and precision at higher concentrations. All Endeavour Silver samples originally assaying >20 ppm silver are then re-assayed using a fire assay followed by a gravimetric finish. A 30 g nominal pulp sample weight is used. The detection ranges are 0.05 to 1,000 ppm for the gold assay and 5 to 3,500 ppm for the silver assay.

As an economical tool for first pass exploration geochemistry, the pulps are sometimes subjected to aqua regia digestion and inductively coupled plasma (ICP) multi-element analysis. The data reported from an aqua regia leach are considered to represent the leachable portion of the particular analyte. These analytical methods are optimized for low detection limits. Over-limits (>10,000 ppm) determined for lead and zinc by ICP are reanalyzed using atomic emission spectroscopy (AES). The analytical procedure is an aqua regia digestion followed by an ICP-AES finish. The detection ranges are 0.001% to 20% for lead and 0.001% to 30% for zinc.

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ALS is an independent analytical laboratory company which services the mining industry around the world. ALS is also an ISO-certified laboratory that employs a rigorous quality control system in its laboratory methodology as well as a system of analytical blanks, standards and duplicates. Details of its accreditation, analytical procedures and QA/QC program can be found at http://www.alsglobal.com/.

In 2011, the turn-around time required for analyses was typically 4 weeks or longer.

11.3.3      QA/QC Program

11.3.3.1      Mine Channel Sampling

The QA/QC protocoal for production samples involves repeat assays on pulp and reject assays, along with in-house prepared blanks and control samples. No commercially available standards were used in 2011. Endeavour Silver creates standards in-house using selected pulp rejects which are prepared by a third party laboratory. Roughly 3% to 5% of production grade control sample are submitted for re-assay.

In August, 2009, the geology department began collecting and sending blanks along with production samples. This practice has continued through 2010 and 2011. Currently, blanks are inserted at a frequency of 1 to 2 samples per day. Blanks are collected as run-of-mine material from waste headings such as the development ramps. These samples are usually of sufficiently low silver grade to be useful in detecting laboratory errors; however, there is always the possibility that the samples will contain anomalous values. Blanks are submitted blind, that is, they are inserted into the sample stream using the same sample sequence and identifiers as any other sample collected.

11.3.3.2      Surface Exploration Sampling

Drilling in the San Pedro, Milache and La Brisa areas was supported by a QA/QC program to monitor the integrity of all assay results. Each batch of 20 samples included one blank, one duplicate and one standard. Check assaying is also conducted at a frequency of approximately 5%.

A total 8,528 samples were collected during Endeavour Silver’s drilling program at Guanaceví in 2011 as shown in Table 11.2. A total of 355 pulps were also submitted for check assaying.

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Table 11.2
Number of Control Samples Used During the 2011 Drilling Program

Sample Type No. of Samples Percentage (%)
   Normal 7,350 86.2
   Blanks 400 4.7
   Duplicates 392 4.6
   Standards 386 4.5
   Total 8,528 100
   Check Assays 355 4.2

Table provided by Endeavour Silver Corp.

Discrepancies and inconsistencies in the blank and duplicate data are resolved by re-assaying either the pulp or reject or both.

Endeavour Silver’s sampling process, including handling of samples, preparation and analysis, is shown in the quality control flow sheet, Figure 11.1.

Figure 11.1
Flow Sheet for Core Sampling, Sample Preparation and Analysis

Figure provided by Endeavour Silver Corp.

11.3.4      Surface Exploration Blank Samples

Blank samples were inserted to monitor possible contamination during the preparation process and analysis of the samples in the laboratory. The blank material used was commercial bentonite purchased for Endeavour Silver’s drilling programs on the Guanaceví Mines project. The bentonite used was Enviroplug Coarse (1/4”). Blank samples are inserted randomly into the sample batch and given unique sample numbers in sequence with the other samples before being shipped to the laboratory.

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Blank samples were inserted at an average rate of approximately 1 for each 20 original samples.

Control charts for gold and silver assays from the blank samples inserted into the sample stream on the Guanaceví Mines project are shown in Figures 11.2 and 11.3.

The control charts show the results of the change in analytical procedures implemented by Endeavour Silver in April, 2011. These changes resulted in lowering the detection limits from 0.05 to 0.005 g/t for gold and 5 to 0.2 g/t for silver.

Figure 11.2
Control Chart for Gold Assays from Blank Samples

Figure provided by Endeavour Silver Corp. Figure dated January, 2012.

Figure 11.3
Control Chart for Silver Assays from Blank Samples

Figure provided by Endeavour Silver Corp. Figure dated January, 2012.

Only a limited number of blank samples returned assay values above the detection limits for gold and silver. Blank samples were also assayed for copper, lead and zinc but little or no contamination was observed for these metals.

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Based on the results obtained from the blank samples, it is considered that the assay results for the drilling programs are for the most part free of any significant contamination.

11.3.5      Surface Exploration Duplicate Samples

Duplicate samples were used to monitor (a) potential mixing up of samples and (b) variability of the data as a result of laboratory error or the lack of homogeneity of the samples.

Duplicate core samples were prepared by Endeavour Silver personnel at the core storage facility at the Guanaceví Mines project. Preparation first involved randomly selecting a sample interval for duplicate sampling purposes. The duplicates were then collected at the time of initial sampling. This required first splitting the core in half and then crushing and dividing the half-split into two portions which were sent to the laboratory separately. The duplicate samples were ticketed with the consecutive number following the original sample. One duplicate sample was collected for each batch of 20 samples.

Discrepancies and inconsistencies in the duplicate sample data are resolved by re-assaying either the pulp or reject or both.

A total of 392 duplicate samples were taken representing 4.6% of all samples.

Scatter diagrams for duplicate samples are shown in Figures 11.4 and 11.5.

Figure 11.4
Original versus Duplicate Graph for Gold Assays from Duplicate Samples

Figure provided by Endeavour Silver Corp. Figure dated January, 2012.

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Figure 11.5
Original versus Duplicate Graph for Silver Assays from Duplicate Samples

Figure provided by Endeavour Silver Corp. Figure dated January, 2012.

For the duplicate samples, graphical analysis shows reasonable correlation coefficients for gold and silver in the majority of the samples. The correlation coefficients are both above 0.85, which is considered satisfactory.

11.3.6      Surface Exploration Standard Reference Material

Endeavour Silver uses commercial reference standards to monitor the accuracy of the laboratories. Standard reference material has been purchased from various internationally-recognized companies such as WCM Minerals and CDN Resource Laboratories Ltd. Each reference standard was prepared by the vendor at its own laboratories and shipped directly to Endeavour Silver, along with a certificate of analysis for each standard purchased.

In 2011, a total of 386 standard reference control samples were submitted at an average frequency of 1 for each batch of 20 samples. Reference standards were ticketed with preassigned numbers in order to avoid inadvertently using numbers that were being used during logging.

Five different standards were submitted and analyzed for gold, silver, copper, lead and zinc. The reference standards used during Endeavour Silver’s drilling programs are described in Table 11.3.

For graphical analysis, results for the standards were scrutinized relative to the mean or control limit (CL), and a lower control limit (LL) and an upper control limit (UL), as shown in Table 11.4.

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Table 11.3
Reference Standards Used for Endeavour Silver’s Drilling Programs

Reference
Standard
Reference
Number
Reference Source Reference Standard Assays
Gold
(g/t)
Silver
(g/t)
Copper
(%)
Lead
(%)
Zinc
(%)
edr-21 PB139 WCM Minerals   195 0.37 1.94 4.14
edr-22 PB140 WCM Minerals   84 0.33 4.35 3.85
edr-23 CU163 WCM Minerals 4.35 99 1.06    
edr-24 PB131 WCM Minerals   262 0.47 1.04 1.89
edr-28 CDN-ME-7 CDN Resource Laboratories 0.22 151 0.23 4.95 4.84

Table provided by Endeavour Silver Corp.

Table 11.4
Basis for Interpreting Standard Sample Assays

Limit Value
UL Plus 2 standard deviations from the mean
CL Recommended value (mean) of standard reference material)
LL Minus 2 standard deviations from the mean

Table provided by Endeavour Silver Corp.

Endeavour Silver’s general rules for a batch failure are as follows:

  • A reported value for a standard greater than 3 standard deviations from the mean is a failure.

  • Two consecutive values of a standard greater than 2 standard deviations from the mean is a failure.

  • A blank value over the acceptable limit is a failure.

  • Results are reported to Endeavour Silver’s Qualified Person every month.

Results of each standard are presented separately below.

Edr-21 (a silver-base metal standard)

One hundred and forty-four samples of reference standard Edr-21 were submitted. The average values of the standard and the control charts are shown in Table 11.5 and Figures 11.6 through 11.9.

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Table 11.5
Laboratory Performance on Standard Edr-21

Element Average Grade of
Samples Submitted
Accepted Value of
Standard
Ag (g/t) 190 195
Cu (%) 0.38 0.37
Pb (%) 1.80 1.94
Zn (%) 4.05 4.14

Table provided by Endeavour Silver Corp.

Figure 11.6
Control Chart for Silver Assays from the Standard Reference Sample Edr-21

Figure provided by Endeavour Silver Corp. Figure dated January, 2012.

Figure 11.7
Control Chart for Copper Assays from the Standard Reference Sample Edr-21

Figure provided by Endeavour Silver Corp. Figure dated January, 2012.

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Figure 11.8
Control Chart for Lead Assays from the Standard Reference Sample Edr-21

Figure provided by Endeavour Silver Corp. Figure dated January, 2012.

Figure 11.9
Control Chart for Zinc Assays from the Standard Reference Sample Edr-21

Figure provided by Endeavour Silver Corp. Figure dated January, 2012.

Most of the values for silver, lead and zinc were below the recommended value (mean) for the standard. Many were slightly below the lower control limit for the standard 95%.

In the case of copper, many of the values were either above or slightly below the control limits for the standard.

In general, the values outside the control limits are thought to reflect more on the quality of the standard than the performance of the laboratory. The analytical methods employed by the ALS laboratory may also have been different and thus resulted in overall lower values being returned for silver, lead and zinc. Overall, however, as shown in Table 11.5 above, the average of the assays obtained by ALS compare reasonably with the mean value of the standard.

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Edr-22 (a silver-base metal standard)

Eighty-four samples of reference standard Edr-22 were submitted. The average values of the standard and the control charts are shown in Table 11.6 and Figures 11.10 to 11.13.

Table 11.6
Laboratory Performance on Standard Edr-22

Element Average Grade of
Samples Submitted
Accepted Value of
Standard
Ag (g/t) 80 84
Cu (%) 0.33 0.33
Pb (%) 4.26 4.35
Zn (%) 3.86 3.85

Table provided by Endeavour Silver Corp.

Figure 11.10
Control Chart for Silver Assays from the Standard Reference Sample Edr-22

Figure provided by Endeavour Silver Corp. Figure dated January, 2012.

Figure 11.11
Control Chart for Copper Assays from the Standard Reference Sample Edr-22

Figure provided by Endeavour Silver Corp. Figure dated January, 2012.

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Figure 11.12
Control Chart for Lead Assays from the Standard Reference Sample Edr-22

Figure provided by Endeavour Silver Corp. Figure dated January, 2012.

Figure 11.13
Control Chart for Zinc Assays from the Standard Reference Sample Edr-22

Figure provided by Endeavour Silver Corp. Figure dated January, 2012.

Many of the values for all four elements analysed were outside the control limits for standard Edr-22. As shown in Table 11.6, however, the average of the assays obtained by ALS compare reasonably with the mean value of the standard.

The mean and standard deviation of the ALS assays for silver of the 84 samples of reference standard Edr-22 were calculated. A revised control chart for these results shows that essentially all values are within two standard deviations of the mean ALS assay.

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Figure 11.14
Control Chart for Silver Assays using the Calculated Mean and Standard Deviation from the Standard Reference Sample Edr-22

Figure provided by Endeavour Silver Corp. Figure dated January, 2012.

Edr-23 (a gold-silver-copper standard)

Sixty-four samples of reference standard Edr-23 were submitted. The average values of the standard and the control charts are shown in Table 11.7 and Figures 11.15 to 11.17.

Table 11.7
Laboratory Performance on Standard Edr-23

Element Average Grade of
Samples Submitted
Accepted Value of
Standard
Au (g/t) 4.37 4.35
Ag (g/t) 98 99
Cu (%) 1.06 1.06

Table provided by Endeavour Silver Corp.

Most values for gold, silver and copper were found to be within the control limits, and the results are considered satisfactory. The mean of the ALS assays agrees well with the mean value of the stardard.

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Figure 11.15
Control Chart for Gold Assays from the Standard Reference Sample Edr-23

Figure provided by Endeavour Silver Corp. Figure dated January, 2012.

Figure 11.16
Control Chart for Silver Assays from the Standard Reference Sample Edr-23

Figure provided by Endeavour Silver Corp. Figure dated January, 2012.

Figure 11.17
Control Chart for Copper Assays from the Standard Reference Sample Edr-23

Figure provided by Endeavour Silver Corp. Figure dated January, 2012.

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Edr-24 (a silver-base metal standard)

Fifty-five samples of reference standard Edr-24 were submitted. The average values of the standard and the control charts are shown in Table 11.8 and Figures 11.18 to 11.21.

Table 11.8
Laboratory Performance on Standard Edr-19

Element Average Grade of
Samples Submitted
Accepted Value of
Standard
Ag (g/t) 251 262
Cu (%) 0.50 0.47
Pb (%) 0.97 1.04
Zn (%) 1.86 1.89

Table provided by Endeavour Silver Corp.

Figure 11.18
Control Chart for Silver Assays from the Standard Reference Sample Edr-24

Figure provided by Endeavour Silver Corp. Figure dated January, 2012.

Figure 11.19
Control Chart for Copper Assays from the Standard Reference Sample Edr-24

Figure provided by Endeavour Silver Corp. Figure dated January, 2012.

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Figure 11.20
Control Chart for Lead Assays from the Standard Reference Sample Edr-24

Figure provided by Endeavour Silver Corp. Figure dated January, 2012.

Figure 11.21
Control Chart for Zinc Assays from the Standard Reference Sample Edr-24

Figure provided by Endeavour Silver Corp. Figure dated January, 2012.

Most of the silver and zinc values are below the recommended value (mean) for standard Edr-24, but only a few values were below the lower control limit.

For copper, nearly all the values are above the recommended value (mean) for the standard, with most of the values being above the upper control limit.

The opposite is the case for lead, with nearly all of the values being below the recommended value (mean) for the standard, and most being below the lower control limit.

The inconsistent results for standard Edr-24 are thought to reflect more on the quality of the standard than the performance of the laboratory, but this cannot be demonstrated conclusively. The mean of the ALS assays, however, compare reasonably well with the mean value of the standard.

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Edr-28 (a gold-silver-base metal standard)

Forty samples of reference standard Edr-28 were submitted. The average values of the standard and the control charts are shown in Table 11.9 and Figures 11.22 through 11.26.

Table 11.9
Laboratory Performance on Standard Edr-28

Element Average Grade of
Samples Submitted
Accepted Value of
Standard
Au (g/t) 0.23 0.22
Ag (g/t) 149 151
Cu (%) 0.24 0.23
Pb (%) 4.79 4.95
Zn (%) 4.75 4.84

Table provided by Endeavour Silver Corp.

Figure 11.22
Control Chart for Gold Assays from the Standard Reference Sample Edr-28

Figure provided by Endeavour Silver Corp. Figure dated January, 2012.

Figure 11.23
Control Chart for Silver Assays from the Standard Reference Sample Edr-28

Figure provided by Endeavour Silver Corp. Figure dated January, 2012.

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Figure 11.24
Control Chart for Copper Assays from the Standard Reference Sample Edr-28

Figure provided by Endeavour Silver Corp. Figure dated January, 2012.

Figure 11.25
Control Chart for Lead Assays from the Standard Reference Sample Edr-28

Figure provided by Endeavour Silver Corp. Figure dated January, 2012.

Figure 11.26
Control Chart for Zinc Assays from the Standard Reference Sample Edr-28

Figure provided by Endeavour Silver Corp. Figure dated January, 2012.

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Most of the values for gold and silver were within the control limits for the standard. Only one value for silver was below the lower control limit. Two values for gold were below and one value above the control limits for the standard.

In the case of copper, lead and zinc, none of the values was outside the control limit for the standard.

The assay results for standard Edr-28 are considered to be good.

11.3.7      Surface Exploration Check Assaying

To evaluate the accuracy of the primary laboratory, Endeavour Silver periodically conducts check analyses.

Random pulps were selected from original core samples and sent to a second laboratory to verify the original assay and monitor any possible deviation due to sample handling and laboratory procedures.

Endeavour Silver typically uses the BSI-Inspectorate laboratory in Durango, Mexico for check analysis.

In 2011, a total of 355 pulp samples were selected and submitted to BSI-Inspectorate. The scatter diagrams for the check assays are shown Figures 11.27 through 11.31.

Figure 11.27
Scatter Diagram of the Gold Check Samples

Figure provided by Endeavour Silver Corp. Figure dated January, 2012.

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Figure 11.28
Scatter Diagram of the Silver Check Samples

Figure provided by Endeavour Silver Corp. Figure dated January, 2012.

Figure 11.29
Scatter Diagram of the Copper Check Samples

Figure provided by Endeavour Silver Corp. Figure dated January, 2012.

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Figure 11.30
Scatter Diagram of the Lead Check Samples

Figure provided by Endeavour Silver Corp. Figure dated January, 2012.

Figure 11.31
Scatter Diagram of the Zinc Check Samples

Figure provided by Endeavour Silver Corp. Figure dated January, 2012.

Correlation coefficients are high (>0.98) for silver, copper, lead and zinc, showing a high level of agreement between the original ALS assay and the BSI-Inspectorate check assay.

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For gold, the correlation coefficient was 0.88. In general, there is a tight clustering of assays, but one anomalously high gold assay affects the overall correlation.

11.3.7.1      Mine Area Surface and Underground Exploration Drilling Program

In 2011, drilling was done in the areas of Porvenir North, Porvenir Central, Santa Cruz and Alex Breccia, with a total of 37 drill holes and 9,729.50 m drilled.

In 2011, there were 1,154 samples collected, as summarized in Table 11.10. QA/QC procedures consisted of a standard, a blank or duplicate added to the sequence every 10 samples.

Table 11.10
Summary of the Quantities of Control Samples Used for the 2011 Mine Exploration Drilling Program

Sample Type Number of Samples Percentage (%)
Normal 973 84.33%
Blanks 40 3.46%
Duplicates 44 3.81%
Standards 97 8.40%
Total 1,154 100%

Table provided by Endeavour Silver Corp.

Endeavour Silver’s sampling process for the mine’s exploration program, including handling of samples, preparation and analysis, is the same as shown in the quality control flow sheet presented as Figure 11.1.

Of the 40 blank samples submitted, only 3 (7.5%) were above the detection limit of 0.06 g/t gold, and only 3 were above the detection limit of 5 g/t silver.

In 2011, a total of 96 reference control samples were submitted for the mine’s exploration program, at an average frequency of 1 for each batch of 10 samples. The reference standards used during Endeavour Silver’s mine exploration drilling programs are described in Table 11.11.

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Table 11.11
Standard Reference Samples Used for Endeavour Silver’s 2011 Mine Exploration Drilling Programs

Reference Standard Reference Number Reference Source Reference Standard Assays
Gold (g/t) Silver (g/t)
EDG-03 BC-108 WCM MINERALS 0.05 5.00
EDG-04 PM-1124 WCM MINERALS 0.04 228.00
EDG-05 PM-1130 WCM MINERALS 3.74 101.00
EDG-06 PM-1128 WCM MINERALS 0.32 592.00
EDG-07 PM-1129 WCM MINERALS 3.46 34.00
EDG-08 PB-134 WCM MINERALS 0.33 184.00
EDG-14 CDN-ME-4 CDN LABORATOIES 2.60 408.00
EDG-16 CDN-FCM-6 CDN LABORATOIES 2.15 157.00
EDG-18 CDN-ME-18 CDN LABORATOIES 0.50 58.00

Table provided by Endeavour Silver Corp.

Micon has analyzed the QA/QC results for Endeavour Silver’s surface and underground drilling programs conducted at the mine. The results were similar to those obtained for the surface drilling program conducted by the exploration group. Therefore, the detailed tables of results, control charts and scatter diagrams have been omitted from this report. Micon believes that the data collected during the surface and underground drilling at the mine, along with the mine samples collected, are of sufficient quality to support the resource and reserve estimates for the Guanaceví Mines project.

11.4      METALURGICA GUANACEVI (MG) LABORATORY

11.4.1      General Discussion on 2011 Procedure Changes

The Metalurgica Guanaceví (MG) laboratory is Endeavour Silver’s in-house laboratory at the Guanaceví Mines project. In order to check, maintain or improve the quality of the assaying, a number of changes to the procedures were made in 2011, with further changes to occur in 2012. The changes which occurred in 2011 are described below.

  1.

Sample preparation:

       
 
  • A re-split of the first sample to be prepared in a batch was added.

           
     
  • Every 35th sample was re-split and it is followed by a blank sample.

           
     
  • A re-split followed by a blank sample was added at the end of each work order.

           
      2.

    Fire laboratory:

           
     
  • The laboratory started to use certified standards to replace the liquid standards previously prepared at the laboratory itself.

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      3.

    Wet laboratory (acid digestion):

             
     
  • The sample weight was changed from 0.2 g to 0.5 g, to obtain a more representative sample.

             
     
  • The sample digestion procedure was also changed. The new step-by-step process is described below:

             
      1)

    Weigh 0.5 g of the sample into a glass flask.

             
      2)

    Add 15 mL of concentrated HNO3 to the glass flask using a calibrated dispenser.

             
      3)

    Place the glass flask on a medium hot plate for 15 minutes or until it has completed fuming.

             
      4)

    Remove the glass, cool and add 30 mL of concentrated HCL from a calibrated dispenser.

             
      5)

    Place the glass flask on the hot plate and digest for 45 minuites.

             
      6)

    Remove the glass flask from the hot plate and cool to room temperature.

             
      7)

    Transfer the sample to a 200 mL flask.

             
      8)

    Bulk up the sample to 200 mL with distilled water, mix well and pour an aliquot for analysis.

             
      9)

    Allow the sample to settle before reading.

             
      10)

    If the sample will not be read within 24 hours, cover the sample with plastic wrap.

    The additional changes which will be instituted in 2012 are as follows:

      1.

    Sample preparation area:

           
     
  • Install a dust extractor over the concentrates table.

           
     
  • Acquire a drying oven for concentrates only in order to avoid and minimize contamination of the drying samples.

           
     
  • Begin to use a logbook for all work orders, in order to have a record at the sample preparation area of all the samples received on a daily basis.

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      2.

    Fire laboratory:

           
     
  • Obtain forks to load the ovens more quickly and reduce the loss of temperature when loading the ovens.

    11.4.2      MG Laboratory QA/QC and Charts

    In addition to sending check samples to commercial laboratories, Endeavour Silver’s mine division has imposed and maintains various quality controls on sampling and assaying procedures including:

    • Duplicate samples.
    • Blanks.
    • In-house and commercial reference standards.
    • Check assaying of selected pulps at different laboratories.

    Micon considers the in-house protocols to be adequate to ensure the integrity of the database for resource and reserve estimates.

    11.4.2.1      MG Blank Samples

    In August, 2009, the geology department began inserting blank samples with production samples. This practice has continued through 2011. Currently, blanks are inserted at the frequency of 1 to 2 samples per day. Blanks are collected as run-of-mine material from waste headings such as the development ramps. These samples are usually of sufficiently low silver grade to be useful in detecting laboratory errors; however, there is always the possibility of that the samples will contain anomalous values. In the future, attempts will be made to procure certified blanks or blanks with a higher probability of being void of detectable silver. Results of the blank assays are shown in Figures 11.32 and 11.33. The majority of anomalous values can be traced to suspected sample tag swaps. Sample values less than 100 g/t silver are considered acceptable by the laboratory.

    11.4.2.2      In-House Control (Reference) Samples

    In October, 2009, the use of two in-house standards (Table 11.12), which were prepared from material collected from active stope headings, was initiated at the MG laboratory on site. The samples were prepared by SGS at its facility in Durango and involved round-robin assaying at three independent external laboratories. In total, 80 kg of pulverized material was prepared for each control sample. Control samples submitted to the MG laboratory are selected at random from one of the following choices; 1) GCVI_E, 2) GCVI_F or 3) a regular pulp reject. Controls are inserted at the rate of one in each batch of fire assays. The samples are inserted blind. The random selection and inclusion of normal pulp rejects helps to ensure the anonymity of the samples.

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    Figure 11.32
    2011 Blank Samples Assayed at the MG Laboratory for Silver

    Figure provided by Endeavour Silver Corp. Figure dated January, 2012.

    Figure 11.33
    2011 Blank Samples Assayed at the MG Laboratory for Gold

    Figure provided by Endeavour Silver Corp. Figure dated January, 2012.

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    Table 11.12
    MG Laboratory Guanaceví Control Samples

    Standard Identifier Reference Number Silver (g/t) Gold (g/t)
    GCVI_E N/A 242 0.44
    GCVI_F N/A 232 0.44

    Table provided by Endeavour Silver Corp.

    Figures 11.34 to 11.37 summarize the silver and gold assay results for the control samples GCVI_E and GCVI_F submitted to the MG laboratory. While the results are somewhat erratic, in overall terms they are considered satisfactory.

    Figure 11.34
    Summary of the 2011 Silver Assay Results for Control Sample GCVI_E Assayed at the MG Laboratory

    Figure provided by Endeavour Silver Corp. Figure dated January, 2012.

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    Figure 11.35
    Summary of the 2011 Silver Assay Results for Control Sample GCVI_F Assayed at the MG Laboratory

    Figure provided by Endeavour Silver Corp. Figure dated January, 2012.

    Figure 11.36
    Summary of the 2011 Gold Assay Results for Control Sample GCVI_E Assayed at the MG Laboratory

    Figure provided by Endeavour Silver Corp. Figure dated January, 2012.

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    Figure 11.37
    Summary of the 2011 Gold Assay Results for Control Sample GCVI_F Assayed at the MG Laboratory

    Figure provided by Endeavour Silver Corp. Figure dated January, 2012.

    11.4.2.3      Pulp and Reject Duplicate Sampling

    In June, 2009, a regular program of collecting and resubmitting pulp and reject duplicates was implemented on a daily basis. This procedure continued throughout 2011. In addition to the selection of production pulps and rejects, duplicate field samples were also collected in the form of underground chip samples and surface stockpile samples. Discrepancies and inconsistencies in the duplicate sample data are resolved by re-assaying either the pulp or reject or, in some cases, both.

    Scatter diagrams for pulp and reject duplicate samples are shown in Figures 11.38 and 11.39. Figures 11.40 and 11.41 show the results for mine and stockpile duplicate samples.

    In general, results of the duplicate re-assays indicate a reasonable correlation for silver and moderate to poor correlation for gold. The difference in the quality of the results of the pulp assays versus the reject assays suggests that the location of sample error may be in the sample preparation stage and that improvements in sample preparation may reduce the variability in the reject sample results.

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    Figure 11.38
    Scatterplots of the 2011 Pulp Reassays for Silver (left) and Gold (right)

     Figure provided by Endeavour Silver Corp. Figure dated January, 2012.

    Figure 11.39
    Scatterplots of the Reject Reassays for Silver (left) and Gold (right)

    Figure provided by Endeavour Silver Corp. Figure dated January, 2012.

    Figure 11.40
    Scatterplots of the Assay Results for the Mine Duplicate Samples for Silver (left) and Gold (right)

    Figure provided by Endeavour Silver Corp. Figure dated January, 2012.

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    Figure 11.41
    Scatterplots of the Assay Results for the Surface Stockpile Duplicate Samples for Silver (left) and Gold (right)

    Figure provided by Endeavour Silver Corp. Figure dated January, 2012.

    Check assays (pulps and rejects) are also sent to at least two external laboratories for analysis, typically the Stewart Group and the Endeavour Silver laboratory at the Guanajuato Mines project. Samples are collected on a regular basis and Endeavour Silver plans to start submitting samples to additional external laboratories on a monthly basis. Scatter diagrams for the Stewart Group assays are shown in Figures 11.42 and 11.43. Similar plots for the Guanajuato laboratory assays are shown in Figures 11.44 and 11.45.

    Figure 11.42
    Scatterplots of the Assay Results for the Pulp Duplicates Assayed at the Stewart Laboratory
    Silver (left) and Gold (right)

    Figure provided by Endeavour Silver Corp. Figure dated January, 2012.

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    159



    11.5      MICON COMMENTS

    Micon has reviewed Endeavour Silver’s QA/QC program and considers that both the exploration and mining department drilling and sampling programs are adequate and that the data collected are appropriate for use in estimating the resources and reserves for the project.

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    12.0      DATA VERIFICATION

    12.1      2011 MICON SITE VISIT

    The data verification completed by Micon at Guanaceví was carried out during five separate site visits: December 16 to 18, 2006, September 6 to 9, 2008, November 20 to 22, 2009, June 23 to 25, 2010 and December 12 to 16, 2011. Micon was represented by William Lewis during the 2006 and 2011 visits and by Charley Murahwi during the 2008 through 2011 visits. No independent sampling was conducted by Micon, since other Qualified Persons have previously sampled the mineralization, as discussed in earlier Technical Reports. Furthermore, Micon considers production records to be the most reliable data confirming the mineralization contained in the deposits being mined. The production history for the Guanaceví Mines project is tabulated in Section 6 of this report.

    During Mr. Murahwi’s visits to the Guanaceví property in 2008, 2009, 2010 and 2011, the underground mine workings and surface facilities were inspected, and the initial reviews of the databases and QA/QC protocols were performed.

    The Guanaceví Mines project is comprised of an operating mine and processing plant which are producing silver doré bars on a regular basis. The sales of doré are a definitive representation of Endeavour Silver’s production.

    Endeavour Silver maintains an active program of assay checks for the production of doré at the plant, in addition to a sampling and assaying program by a sales representative in the city of Torreón, Coahuila, to check the assays reported by the Met-Mex smelter of Industrias Peñoles S.A. de C.V. (Peñoles). An adequate amount of checking has been conducted, and the results are representative of the doré produced at the Guanaceví Mines project and shipped to the smelter.

    Figure 12.1 is a view of the exploration drill visited during the December, 2011 site visit. At the time of the site visit this was the only surface drill operating.

    12.2      DATABASE VERIFICATION FOR THE MINERAL RESOURCE ESTIMATE

    12.2.1      Review of the In-House Data Protocols

    12.2.1.1      Database Construction

    Endeavour Silver conducts a validation process on the underground sampling and surface exploration data generated from its Guanaceví Mines project. The data verification procedures generally involve:

    161



    Figure 12.1
    Surface Drill Operating During the December, 2011 Micon Site Visit

     
  • Visually checking the data for the following:

           
     
  • Any non-conforming assay information, such as duplicate and missing sample numbers.

           
     
  • Verifying collar elevations against survey information for each drill hole.

           
     
  • Verifying collar coordinates against survey information for each drill hole.

           
     
  • Verifying the dip and azimuth against survey information for each hole.

           
     
  • Comparing the database interval against the original assay certificate for drill hole/channel samples.

           
     
  • Verifying survey information for location of underground channel samples used in reserve estimation.

           
     
  • Using Vulcan software to check for data errors and vein continuity.

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    The assay information comes directly from the laboratory in an electronic format and is merged into the database using sample numbers. Once the laboratory has finalized assays, they are put into a dedicated database directory.

    The data are in a format that is directly importable to the company’s Vulcan modelling software. The export format is an Excel spreadsheet, so all data are also readily importable for use in spreadsheets or a different database.

    Senior project personnel have portable versions of the drill hole database on their laptop computers. This allows them access to the data at all times. The portable databases are only up-to-date to the point that the master database is copied onto the laptop. Through day-today use of the database, staff personnel are constantly verifying and rechecking data.

    Channel sample assay data are entered into an Excel spreadsheet used for day-to-day grade control purposes; in addition assay data on sample orientation and location are also entered. All location data are relative to a local surveyed reference point. Channel samples are plotted onto plans prepared on the basis of most up-to-date survey information. If survey data for a particular stope cut are not available, the sample location is estimated on the basis of the most recent survey pick-up. Coordinates are recorded manually and then entered into an Excel spreadsheet. The process of plotting data onto plans ensures that most field recording errors are identified and corrected.

    The channel survey and assay data are then merged on the basis of sample numbers to produce the final database for resource estimation. For data collected in late 2007 and early 2008, the merging of data was done using assay plans prepared in AutoCAD, as field data were not routinely plotted up and coordinates recorded at the time. The merging of data initially encountered numerous problems of data duplication. Problems of channel data duplication were filtered using Excel spreadsheets and also Vulcan software. Problems of errors with sample location were identified using Vulcan 3D software. Duplicated channel data are removed, with the oldest data being accepted as the original information. In some cases (evaluated on a case-by-case basis) duplicated data were accepted or rejected on the basis of sample number sequences. Given the large number of channels that were available for use in the channel sample database, the general approach was to exclude any channels/samples with data issues. Much of this process of data elimination is manual and extremely time consuming; due to the quantity of data some errors may still exist in the channel sample database, but the relatively small number means they will have an insignificant effect on the overall resource estimates. A final channel database for resource estimation in an Excel spreadsheet is in a format compatible for import into a Vulcan database.

    Assay data and information generated by both operations and exploration are currently transmitted manually and the entire paper trail is accessible and available for inspection.

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    12.2.1.2      QA/QC on Assay Data

    In addition to using accredited commercial laboratories, Endeavour Silver’s exploration division has imposed and maintains various quality controls on sampling and assaying procedures including:

    • Duplicate samples.
    • Blanks.
    • Reference standards.
    • Check assaying of selected pulps at different laboratories.

    Micon considers the in-house protocols to be adequate to ensure the integrity of the database for resource and reserve estimation.

    12.2.2      Micon Validation of Data and In-House Protocols

    During its visits, Micon completed the following validation tasks:

    • Review of the property geology and the state of geological/mineralization knowledge.

    • Review of the evaluation/exploration practices, specifically drilling, underground channel sampling, drill core handling and sampling procedures and sample security arrangements.

    • Review of on-site laboratory facilities.

    • General review of QA/QC monitoring reports and charts.

    • Review of database integrity/back-up and storage procedures.

    12.2.2.1      State of Geological / Mineralization Knowledge

    Endeavour Silver site geologists base their geological model on a clear understanding of the geology of the deposit. That understanding comes from the intelligent interpretation of accurate observations of surface, underground and drilling exposures. Testing of the geological model is achieved through a thorough review of the geological mapping of the surface and underground openings, as well as auditing the logging and recording of geological observations from drill holes. Endeavour Silver conducts underground development and continuous level back mapping to guide development sampling crews and to facilitate the interpretation of the sampling results.

    The surface exploration procedures have been recently enhanced by the use of drill core orientation techniques (Ballmark Oriented Core System) which provide vital information on geological structure and mineralization continuity, influencing the geological model used in the resource estimation. The core orientation angles are measured using an improvised goniometer as depicted in Figure 12.2.

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    Figure 12.2
    Site Geologist Measuring Core Orientation Angles

    Following its review, Micon is satisfied that the geology teams at Guanaceví have acquired a good understanding of the geology and mineralization controls which have an important bearing on resource estimates and future exploration efforts. Thus, the resource estimation process is well supported by a good geological/mineralization model.

    12.2.2.2      Review of Exploration Practices

    The drilling procedures as observed by Micon are in accordance with the current CIM Exploration Best Practices Guidelines. On the drill site, surveys are conducted to obtain collar coordinates, elevation of the site and its surroundings, inclination and azimuth of the drill hole. This is important for accuracy in the production of maps, sections and plans. As drilling progresses, the inclination and azimuth of the drill hole are monitored by conducting down-hole surveys. As the targeted drill hole depth is approached, the hole is surveyed using a Reflex down-hole survey instrument in multi-shot mode.

    Endeavour Silver aims for HQ and NQ core sizes for surface and underground drilling, respectively. The bigger the sample, the more representative it is. The slightly smaller underground core is due to the lower capacity of the rigs as compared to surface rigs. Core logging is by bar-coding systems with a minimum of descriptive content. This is good practice which provides a check list, minimizes data transcription errors and assists in maintaining consistency in logging.

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    In summary, the quality of Endeavour Silver’s diamond drilling is assured by good survey control, NQ and HQ core sizes which yield representative samples, good core recoveries which yield whole intercepts in targeted potential ore zones, and target intersection angles as near to perpendicular as possible. The core storage facilities at Guanaceví are well protected by a high level security fence and are located in an area under 24-hour surveillance by security personnel.

    12.2.2.3      On-site Laboratory Inspection

    Micon has carried out inspections of the laboratory facilities at Guanaceví during all of its site visits to monitor and ensure continual improvement. The laboratory’s capabilities have recently been enhanced by the addition of new AA and ICP machines, plus two electric furnaces. Although the laboratory is not yet ISO certified, it is actively participating in round-robin exercises with other Mexican laboratories, including SGS and Pan American’s Colorada laboratory. The laboratory in-house QA/QC protocols are in accordance with the CIM best practices guidelines. These include regular calibration of measuring instruments, tight controls/supervision in the sample preparation room to avoid contamination between samples and use internal certified standards. Currently, the laboratory takes care of all production samples for the mine and half of the trench samples from the exploration team. However, Micon noted that Endeavour Silver still utilizes external ISO certified laboratories for most of its analytical work involving exploration projects and some selected sample pulps are later submitted to the mine laboratory. This ensures confidence in the assay database of new prospective production additions to the mine.

    12.2.2.4.      Database Check

    Micon’s resource database verification involved checks on drill collar coordinates, down-hole deviations, lithology and assay data. In all respects Micon established that the database had been reasonably constructed.

    12.2.2.5      Micon Comments

    Based on the data verification performed, Micon is satisfied that the database was generated in a credible manner and that it is respresentative of the mineralization encountered at the Guanacevi Mines project and therefore suitable to support mineral resource estimation.

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    13.0      MINERAL PROCESSING AND METALLURGICAL TESTING

    As part of its ongoing exploration in the Guanaceví mining district, Endeavour Silver has undertaken metallurgical studies on drill core obtained from the various veins under investigation. These studies have been undertaken in order to optimize the processing of the mineralization should a decision to mine these veins be initiated.

    Endeavour Silver is waiting for the results from various studies that were undertaken and the results will be included in subsequent updates of this report.

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    14.0      MINERAL RESOURCE ESTIMATES

    The Mineral Resource estimate has been produced and classified using the November, 2010 CIM standards and definitions for estimating resources as required by Canadian National Instrument 43-101 and the accompanying documents NI 43-101-F1 and NI 43-101-CP. The updated 2011 resource estimate for the mine has been conducted by Micon. Endeavour Silver has conducted the resource estimate for the exploration areas beyond the limits of the mine (but within the Guanaceví mining lease area) and that estimate has subsequently been audited by Micon.

    The process of mineral resource estimation includes technical information which requires subsequent calculations or estimates to derive sub-totals, totals and weighted averages. Such calculations or estimations inherently involve a degree of rounding and consequently introduce a margin of error. Where these occur, Micon does not consider them to be material.

    The December 31, 2011 mineral resource estimate and audit of resources in the exploration areas supersede the December 31, 2010 resource estimate which was published in the March 15, 2011 Technical Report.

    14.1      CIM MINERAL RESOURCE DEFINITIONS AND CLASSIFICATIONS

    All mineral resources presented in a Technical Report must follow the current CIM definitions and standards for mineral resources and reserves. The latest edition of the CIM definitions and standards was adopted by the CIM council on November 27, 2010, and includes the resource definitions reproduced below:

    “A Mineral Resource is a concentration or occurrence of diamonds, natural solid inorganic material, or natural solid fossilized organic material including base and precious metals, coal, and industrial minerals in or on the Earth’s crust in such form and quantity and of such a grade or quality that it has reasonable prospects for economic extraction. The location, quantity, grade, geological characteristics and continuity of a Mineral Resource are known, estimated or interpreted from specific geological evidence and knowledge.”

    “The term Mineral Resource covers mineralization and natural material of intrinsic economic interest which has been identified and estimated through exploration and sampling and within which Mineral Reserves may subsequently be defined by the consideration and application of technical, economic, legal, environmental, socio-economic and governmental factors. The phrase “reasonable prospects for economic extraction” implies a judgment by the Qualified Person in respect of the technical and economic factors likely to influence the prospect of economic extraction. A Mineral Resource is an inventory of mineralization that under realistically assumed and justifiable technical and economic conditions might become economically extractable. These assumptions must be presented explicitly in both public and technical reports.”

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    “Inferred Mineral Resource”

    “An ‘Inferred Mineral Resource’ is that part of a Mineral Resource for which quantity and grade or quality can be estimated on the basis of geological evidence and limited sampling and reasonably assumed, but not verified, geological and grade continuity. The estimate is based on limited information and sampling gathered through appropriate techniques from locations such as outcrops, trenches, pits, workings and drill holes.”

    “Due to the uncertainty that may be attached to Inferred Mineral Resources, it cannot be assumed that all or any part of an Inferred Mineral Resource will be up-graded to an Indicated or Measured Mineral Resource as a result of continued exploration. Confidence in the estimate is insufficient to allow the meaningful application of technical and economic parameters or to enable an evaluation of economic viability worthy of public disclosure. Inferred Mineral Resources must be excluded from estimates forming the basis of feasibility or other economic studies.”

    “Indicated Mineral Resource”

    “An ‘Indicated Mineral Resource’ is that part of a Mineral Resource for which quantity, grade or quality, densities, shape and physical characteristics, can be estimated with a level of confidence sufficient to allow the appropriate application of technical and economic parameters, to support mine planning and evaluation of the economic viability of the deposit. The estimate is based on detailed and reliable exploration and testing information gathered through appropriate techniques from locations such as outcrops, trenches, pits, workings and drill holes that are spaced closely enough for geological and grade continuity to be reasonably assumed.”

    “Mineralization may be classified as an Indicated Mineral Resource by the Qualified Person when the nature, quality, quantity and distribution of data are such as to allow confident interpretation of the geological framework and to reasonably assume the continuity of mineralization. The Qualified Person must recognize the importance of the Indicated Mineral Resource category to the advancement of the feasibility of the project. An Indicated Mineral Resource estimate is of sufficient quality to support a Preliminary Feasibility Study which can serve as the basis for major development decisions.”

    “Measured Mineral Resource”

    “A ‘Measured Mineral Resource’ is that part of a Mineral Resource for which quantity, grade or quality, densities, shape, and physical characteristics are so well established that they can be estimated with confidence sufficient to allow the appropriate application of technical and economic parameters, to support production planning and evaluation of the economic viability of the deposit. The estimate is based on detailed and reliable exploration, sampling and testing information gathered through appropriate techniques from locations such as outcrops, trenches, pits, workings and drill holes that are spaced closely enough to confirm both geological and grade continuity.”

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    “Mineralization or other natural material of economic interest may be classified as a Measured Mineral Resource by the Qualified Person when the nature, quality, quantity and distribution of data are such that the tonnage and grade of the mineralization can be estimated to within close limits and that variation from the estimate would not significantly affect potential economic viability. This category requires a high level of confidence in, and understanding of, the geology and controls of the mineral deposit.”

    14.2      DECEMBER 31, 2011 MINERAL RESOURCE ESTIMATE

    14.2.1      Mineral Resource Statement

    The mineral resources for the Guanaceví Mines project as of December 31, 2011 are summarized in Tables 14.1 and 14.2. The resources are exclusive of the mineral reserves.

    Table 14.1
    Measured and Indicated Mineral Resources for the Guanaceví Mines Project as at December 31, 2011

    Property Category Tonnes Silver
    (g/t)
    Gold
    (g/t)
    Silver Eq
    (g/t)
    Silver (oz) Gold
    (oz)
    Silver Eq
    (oz)
    Pb
    (%)
    Zn
    (%)
    Porvenir N Z 1 Indicated 676,000 158 0.26 172 3,434,000 5,700 3,747,500    
    Porvenir N Z 2 Indicated 441,000 238 0.50 266 3,374,500 7,100 3,765,000    
    Porvenir N 2 N Indicated 156,000 272 0.36 292 1,364,200 1,800 1,463,200    
    Santa Cruz Indicated 218,000 347 0.61 381 2,432,100 4,300 2,668,600    
    Santa Cruz (Pb/Zn) Indicated 116,000 233 0.66 274 869,000 2,500 1,006,500
    Porvenir Dos Indicated                  
    Porvenir Cuatro Indicated 226,000 281 0.81 326 2,041,800 5,900 2,366,300    
    Milache Indicated 191,000 220 0.64 255 1,350,600 4,000 1,570,600    
    La Blanca-Mi N Indicated 64,000 267 0.61 300 549,600 1,200 615,600    
    Epsilon-Soto Indicated 106,000 297 0.55 327 1,010,800 1,900 1,115,300    
    Noche Buena Indicated 655,000 166 0.21 178 3,495,700 4,400 3,737,700 0.61 1.02
    Total Indicated 2,849,000 217 0.42 241 19,922,300 38,800 22,056,300    

    Table 14.2
    Inferred Mineral Resources for the Guanaceví Mines Project as at December 31, 2011

    Property Category Tonnes Silver
    (g/t)
    Gold
    (g/t)
    Silver Eq
    (g/t)
    Silver (oz) Gold
    (oz)
    Silver Eq
    (oz)
    Pb
    (%)
    Zn
    (%)
    Porvenir N Z1 Inferred 173,000 161 0.34 180 895,500 1,900 1,000,000    
    Porvenir N Z2 Inferred 37,000 206 0.47 232 245,100 600 278,100    
    Porvenir N 2 N Inferred 16,000 198 0.22 210 101,900 100 107,400    
    Santa Cruz Inferred 135,000 290 0.52 319 1,258,700 2,300 1,385,200    
    Santa Cruz (PB/ZN) Inferred 140,000 129 0.61 163 580,600 2,700 729,100
    Porvenir Dos Inferred                  
    Porvenir Cuatro Inferred 76,000 310 1.02 366 757,500 2,500 895,000    
    Alex Brecia Inferred 381,000 257 0.35 276 3,148,100 4,300 3,384,600    
    Milache Inferred 137,000 215 0.53 244 947,700 2,300 1,074,200    
    San Joaquin Inferred 51,000 184 0.05 187 301,700 100 307,200    
    La Blanca-Mi N Inferred 7,000 190 0.43 214 42,700 100 48,200    
    Epsilon-Soto Inferred 216,000 459 0.91 510 3,189,700 6,300 3,536,200    
    Noche Buena Inferred 337,000 149 0.18 159 1,614,400 2,000 1,724,400 0.63 1.04
    Buena Fé Inferred 307,000 98 0.10 104 967,300 1,000 1,022,300 1.73 3.32
    Total Inferred 2,013,000 217 0.40 239 14,050,900 26,200 15,491,900    

    1.

    Mineral resources which are not mineral reserves do not have demonstrated economic viability. The estimate of mineral resources may be materially affected by environmental, permitting, legal, title, taxation, sociopolitical, marketing, or other relevant issues.

       
    2.

    There has been insufficient exploration to define the inferred resources as an indicated or measured mineral resource. It is uncertain if further exploration will result in upgrading them to an indicated or measured mineral resource category

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    Micon believes that at present there are no known environmental, permitting, legal, title, taxation, socio-economic, marketing or political issues which could adversely affect the mineral resources estimated above.

    14.2.2      Assumptions and Parameters

    The mineral resource estimate is based on the following assumptions and parameters.

    • Minimum mining width – 1.5 m.

    • Silver equivalent – 55:1 for silver to gold, based on prics of US $1,650/oz for gold and US $30/oz for silver.

    • Cut-off grade – 100 g/t silver equivalent using a 55:1 ratio.

    14.3      MINERAL RESOURCE ESTIMATION PROCEDURES

    14.3.1      Grade Capping of High Grade Assays

    Endeavour Silver developed basic statistical parameters for raw silver and gold assays. The parameters indicated that the data are positively skewed and that it was necessary to limit the influence of high outlier assays. To determine the appropriate capping value for each zone, lognormal probability plots and cumulative frequency plots were examined, and the capping values were based on the cumulative probability of approximately 95% for each zone (Table 14.3).

    Table 14.3
    Summary of Sample Capping Grades for the Various Veins at Guanacevi

     Chip Sample Assay Capping - Vein Only 
    Zone Percentile Au Accumulation
    (m. g/t)
    Ag Accumulation
    (m. g/t)
    Porvenir Zone 1 0.975 2.01 1,357
    Porvenir Zone 2 0.975 3.98 1,526
    Porvenir Zone 2 North Splay 0.975 3.83 2,152
    Porvenir Dos 0.975 4.54 1,892
    Porvenir Quatro 0.975 5.40 1,329
    Drill hole Sample Assay Capping - Vein Only      
    Zones 1, 2 and Zone 2 North 0.975 1.65 709
    Porvenir Dos 0.975 1.21 439
    Porvenir Quatro 0.975 1.40 409

    Capping was done on the individual channel and drill hole silver and gold assay accumualation (grade x thickness) before composting was performed.

    14.3.2      Tonnage

    The Guanaceví Mines project uses a specific gravity of 2.5 to estimate tonnage. This is considered reasonable for this type of deposit and is based on a number of tests on samples collected from the property.

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    14.3.3      Resource and Grade Estimation

    For the year ended December 31, 2011, two different methodologies have been employed for the estimation of resources for the Guanaceví Mines project as described below.

    14.3.3.1      2D Polygonal Resource and Reserve Estimates

    The 2D polygonal method is based on the use of a longitudinal section to estimate the mineral resources and reserves.

    Mineral resource blocks are defined by drawing a polygon around each drill intercept on a longitudinal section. Before a polygon is drawn, the intercept must be above the established cut-off grade and meet the 1.5 m minimum width criterion. A 25 m projection from the centroid of the drill intercept is then made for indicated resource blocks. When the continuity of mineralization is determined, an additional 25 m projection is made for inferred resources. Block volumes are estimated by drawing each block area on a longitudinal section and measuring this area using AutoCAD. The area of the block is then multiplied by the average horizontal width of the composited drill intercept to estimate the volume.

    The 2D classic polygonal method is appropriate in areas tested by a limited number of drill holes/samples and has been successfully used by Endeavour Silver’s exploration division in the last couple of years as evidenced by the extent to which Indicated resources were quickly upgraded into reserves.

    The resources for Noche Buena have been carried forward from 2010; those for Milache, San Joaquin, La Blanca-Mi Niña and Epsilon-Soto have been estimated by Endeavour Silver as of the end of 2011, using the polygonal method. The estimates have been verified by Micon. Figures 14.1 to 14.10 are longitudinal sections showing the current resources estimated for Milache, Epsilon-Soto, San Joaquin and La Blanca-Mi Niña.

    14.3.3.2      Block Modelling and Inverse Distance Weighting Method

    For the December 31, 2010 resource estimates, Endeavour Silver generated its own block model in a methodology that used GSLIB software to model the structures in 2D, followed by post-processing using Vulcan computer software to generate a 3D block model. The final Vulcan 3D models were used to generate the resource and reserve figures.

    For the December 31, 2011 resource estimate, the resource models created for year-end 2010 were used as a base. Wireframes/solids for all voids (i.e. stopes, drifts, etc.), the resource database comprising channel samples and drill holes, and a production report for the mine were submitted to Micon for the year ended December 31, 2011.

    Micon used these data to generate block models for Porvenir Dos and Porvenir Cuatro using the GEMS mining software. The block model descriptions are provided below.

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    Figure 14.1
    Longitudinal Section showing the Resources for the Sants Cruz Vein on the Milache Concession

    Figure 14.2
    Figure 14.2 : Longitudinal Section showing the Resources for the Footwall Milache Vein

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    Figure 14.3
    Figure 14.3 : Longitudinal Section showing the Resources for the Hanging Wall Milache Vein

    Figure 14.4
    Figure 14.4 : Longitudinal Section showing the Resources for the Epsilon-Soto Vein

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    Figure 14.5
    Longitudinal Section showing the Resources for the Footwall Soto Vein

    Figure 14.6
    Longitudinal Section showing the Resources for the Hanging Wall Soto Vein

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    Figure 14.7
    Longitudinal Section showing the Resources for the Epsilon Vein

    Figure 14.8
    Longitudinal Section showing the Resources for the San Joaquin Vein

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    Figure 14.9
    Longitudinal Section showing the Resources for the La Blanca Vein

    Figure 14.10
    Longitudinal Section showing the Resources for the Mi Niña Vein

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    Block models were created separately for Porvenir Dos and Porvenir Cuatro. Each model covered four veines and each covered the same horizontal and vertical coordinates from 399,000 to 399,900 east, 2,867,800 to 2,868,850 north, and 2,130 m to 2,550 m elevation. The lower limit was defined on the influence of the deepest drill hole. The upper limit representing the topography and top of bedrock was generated from the digital elevation model (DEM).

    Based on the geometry of the deposit and drill hole spacing, a parent block size of y = 2 m, x = 2 m and z = 2 m was selected to fill the mineralization envelope. Partial percents were used at the solid/mineralization envelope boundary to get an accurate volume representation. A volume check of the block model versus the mineralization envelopes revealed a good representation of the volumes of the four solids

    For the remaining resource areas within the mine, the new data additions to the previous December 31, 2010 database were insignificant. Accordingly, Micon used a simple discounting method to estimate the resources. The discounting method involved subtracting voids from the December 31, 2010 block model and reporting the remaining balance in a spread sheet. The method was validated by reconciling the resource figures with the production reports for each section of the mine.

    14.3.4      Classification

    Mineral resources were classified on the basis of the location of blocks relative to the data used to interpolate the block grade according to the following criteria:

    • Measured mineral resources apply to those resource blocks where grade, density, shape and physical characteristics are so well established to allow the appropriate application of technical and economic parameters, to support production planning. Currently there are no Measured resource blocks at Guanaceví.

    • Indicated mineral resources refer to those resource blocks/areas where the geological framework, continuity and grade of mineralization are sufficiently understood to support a preliminary feasibility study which will serve as the basis for major development decisions. For the operations, this is applicable to those blocks which have had the historical mine sampling superseded by Endeavour Silver’s subsequent channel sampling programs which, in conjunction with the confidence gained from the historical reconciliations, provide an acceptable level of confidence in the sample grades and resultant block estimates. All of the modelled Indicated resource blocks for the existing operations are within a maximum distance of 35 m from any data point including development, chip samples or drill hole intercepts. For the exploration division’s polygonal resource calculations, a 25 m search radius is used in the definition of Indicated resources.

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    • Inferred mineral resources are those blocks/areas where confidence in the estimate is insufficient to enable an evaluation of the economic viability worthy of public disclosure. For the operations, these are outlined and estimated based on the mine’s interpretation and confidence in the historical sampling results. For the exploration division’s polygonal resource calculations, a 50 m search radius is used in the definition of Inferred resources.

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    15.0      MINERAL RESERVE ESTIMATES

    Having established an a resource estimate for the mineralization contained in the veins at the Guanaceví Mines project, Endeavour Silver has prepared a production schedule for the extraction of the measured and indicated mineral resources contained within readily accessible underground areas.

    The reserve estimate completed by Micon is compliant with the current CIM standards and definitions specified by NI 43-101. This esimate supersedes the December 31, 2010 reserve estimate for the Guanaceví Mines project and has an effective date of December 31, 2011.

    The process of mineral reserve estimation includes technical information which requires subsequent calculations or estimates to derive sub-totals, totals and weighted averages. Such calculations or estimations inherently involve a degree of rounding and consequently introduce a margin of error. Where these occur, Micon does not consider them to be material.

    15.1      CIM MINERAL RESERVE DEFINITIONS AND CLASSIFICATIONS

    All resources and reserves presented in a Technical Report must follow the current CIM definitions and standards for mineral resources and reserves. The latest edition of the CIM definitions and standards was adopted by the CIM council on November 27, 2010, and includes the reserve definitions reproduced below.

    Mineral Reserve

    “Mineral Reserves are sub-divided in order of increasing confidence into Probable Mineral Reserves and Proven Mineral Reserves. A Probable Mineral Reserve has a lower level of confidence than a Proven Mineral Reserve.”

    “A Mineral Reserve is the economically mineable part of a Measured or Indicated Mineral Resource demonstrated by at least a Preliminary Feasibility Study. This Study must include adequate information on mining, processing, metallurgical, economic and other relevant factors that demonstrate, at the time of reporting, that economic extraction can be justified. A Mineral Reserve includes diluting materials and allowances for losses that may occur when the material is mined.”

    “Mineral Reserves are those parts of Mineral Resources which, after the application of all mining factors, result in an estimated tonnage and grade which, in the opinion of the Qualified Person(s) making the estimates, is the basis of an economically viable project after taking account of all relevant processing, metallurgical, economic, marketing, legal, environment, socio-economic and government factors. Mineral Reserves are inclusive of diluting material that will be mined in conjunction with the Mineral Reserves and delivered to the treatment plant or equivalent facility. The term ‘Mineral Reserve’ need not necessarily signify that extraction facilities are in place or operative or that all governmental approvals have been received. It does signify that there are reasonable expectations of such approvals.”

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    “Probable Mineral Reserve”

    “A ‘Probable Mineral Reserve’ is the economically mineable part of an Indicated and, in some circumstances, a Measured Mineral Resource demonstrated by at least a Preliminary Feasibility Study. This Study must include adequate information on mining, processing, metallurgical, economic, and other relevant factors that demonstrate, at the time of reporting, that economic extraction can be justified.”

    “Proven Mineral Reserve”

    “A 'Proven Mineral Reserve’ is the economically mineable part of a Measured Mineral Resource demonstrated by at least a Preliminary Feasibility Study. This Study must include adequate information on mining, processing, metallurgical, economic, and other relevant factors that demonstrate, at the time of reporting, that economic extraction is justified.”

    “Application of the Proven Mineral Reserve category implies that the Qualified Person has the highest degree of confidence in the estimate with the consequent expectation in the minds of the readers of the report. The term should be restricted to that part of the deposit where production planning is taking place and for which any variation in the estimate would not significantly affect potential economic viability.”

    15.2      DECEMBER 31, 2011 MINERAL RESERVE ESTIMATE

    15.2.1      Mineral Reserve Statement

    The mineral reserves for the Guanaceví mines project as of December 31, 2011 are as summarized in Table 15.1.

    Table 15.1
    December 31, 2011 Proven and Probable Mineral Reserve Estimate, Guanaceví Mines Project

    Property Category Tonnes Silver g/t Gold g/t Silver Eq g/t Silver oz Gold oz Silver Eq oz
    Porvenir N Z1 Proven 26,000 324 0.45 349 270,800 400 292,800
    Porvenir N Z2 Proven 309,000 362 0.68 399 3,596,300 6,800 3,970,300
    Porvenir N 2 N Proven 48,000 343 0.54 373 529,300 800 573,300
    Santa Cruz Proven 89,000 189 0.35 208 540,800 1,000 595,800
    Porvenir Dos Proven 27,000 280 0.63 315 243,100 500 270,600
    Porvenir Cuatro Proven 158,000 262 0.83 308 1,330,900 4,200 1,561,900
    Stockpile Proven 116,000 280 0.67 317 1,044,300 2,500 1,181,800
    Subtotal Proven 466,000 313 0.64 353 4,689,000 9,600 5,283,000
                     
    Porvenir N Z1 Probable 510,000 222 0.35 241 3,640,100 5,700 3,953,600
    Porvenir N Z2 Probable 124,000 285 0.38 306 1,136,200 1,500 1,218,700
    Porvenir N 2 N Probable 35,000 243 0.39 264 273,400 400 295,400
    Santa Cruz Probable 85,000 188 0.47 214 513,800 1,300 585,300
    Porvenir Dos Probable 3,000 342 0.62 376 33,000 100 38,500
    Porvenir Cuatro Probable 42,000 251 0.81 296 338,900 1,100 399,400
    Subtotal Probable 799,000 231 0.39 253 5,935,400 10,100 6,490,900
                     
    Total Proven+Probable 1,572,000 267 0.52 296 13,490,900 26,300 14,937,400

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    15.2.2      Mineral Reserve Parameters

    The parameters used for the Guanaceví mineral reserves are as follow:

    • Cut-off grade - 158 g/t Ag.
    • Dilution - 15% after being diluted to a minimum mining width.
    • Minimum width - 2 m.
    • Silver equivalent - 55:1 for silver to gold
    • Gold price - US $1,000 per oz
    • Silver price - US $16 per oz.
    • Gold recovery (overall) – 83.67%.
    • Silver recovery (overall) – 76.63%.

    15.2.3      Definitions and Classification

    Mineral reserves are derived from measured/ indicated resources after applying the physical and economic parameters stated above. The Guanaceví reserves have been derived and classified according to the following criteria:

    • Proven mineral reserves are the economically mineable part of the Measured resource where development work for mining and information on processing/metallurgy and other relevant factors demonstrate that economic extraction is achievable. For Guanaceví, this applies to blocks located within approximately 10 m of existing development and for which Endeavour Silver has a mine plan in place.

    • Probable mineral reserves are those Measured/Indicated mineral resource blocks which at the time of reporting are considered economic and for which Endeavour Silver has a mine plan in place. For Guanaceví, this is applicable to blocks located a maximum of 35 m either vertically or horizontally distant from development.

    The reserve blocks are shown in Figures 15.1 to 15.8.

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    Figure 15.1
    Reserves and Resources for Porveir North Zone 1
    (as at December 31, 2011)

    Figure 15.2
    Reserves and Resources for Porveir North Zone 2
    (as at December 31, 2011)

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    Figure 15.3
    Reserves and Resources for Porveir North Zone 2 North
    (as at December 31, 2011)

    Figure 15.4
    Reserves and Resources for Porveir 2
    (as at December 31, 2011)

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    Figure 15.5
    Reserves and Resources for Porveir Cuatro
    (as at December 31, 2011)

    Figure 15.6
    Reserves and Resources for Santa Cruz
    (as at December 31, 2011)

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    Figure 15.7
    Longitudinal Section Showing Distribution of Reserves and Resources for the Whole Guanaceví Mine
    (as at December 31, 2011)

    Figure 15.8
    Plan View of the Guanaceví Mine Showing Distribution of Reserves and Resources
    (as at December 31, 2011)

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    16.0      MINING METHODS

    16.1      MINING OPERATIONS

    Since January 1, 2007, Endeavour Silver has been in control of the day-to-day mining operations at the Guanaceví Mines project. Endeavour Silver assumed control of the mining operations from a local mining contractor in order to allow for more flexibility in operations and to continue optimizing the costs.

    On December 31, 2011, the Guanaceví Mines project had a roster of 401 employees. The mine operates on two 10-hour shifts, 7 days a week, whereas the mill operates on a 24/7 schedule. The miners are skilled and experienced in vein mining and are currently not unionized. There is an incentive system in place rewarding personnel for good attendance, safety and production. Technical services and overall supervision are provided by Endeavour Silver staff. The mine employs geology, planning and surveying personnel and has detailed production plans and schedules. All mining activities are being conducted under the direct supervision and guidance of the mine manager.

    An organization chart for the Guanaceví Mines project is shown in Figure 16.1.

    16.2      GROUND CONDITIONS

    The Porvenir mine is a high grade silver-gold, epithermal vein deposit, characterized by low sulphidation geochemistry and adularia-sericite alteration. The Santa Cruz vein is the host of the silver and gold mineralization. It is oriented northwest and occurs principally within the Guanaceví Formation, with a preferred strike of N45°W and dips of between 50° and 55° to the southwest.

    The footwall is an unaltered andesite that has rock quality determinations (RQD) ranging from 80 to 100. This is competent ground that only occasionally requires additional support such as 6-foot spilt-set bolts or shotcrete.

    The vein is a classic quartz vein that varies from 1 to 5 m wide, with an average width of approximately 3 m. The footwall contact is defined by a clear change of rock type from vein material to unaltered andesite. The hanging wall contact is typically defined by a clear structural boundary between the vein and the hanging wall rocks, with the contact usually defined as the Santa Cruz fault, a normal fault characterized by striations and fault gouge. The gouge material is typically white clay that can range from 5 mm up to 1 m or 2 m in thickness. The vein is generally self-supporting over the entire width and requires no mechanical supports. When vein widths increase beyond 5 m, some local support in the form of split-set bolts and welded wire mesh may be required. In some areas post-mineral movement of the fault has caused some fracturing along the vein.

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    In the Porvenir Deep zone, mineralization is hosted both in the vein and in altered and weakly to moderately oxidized wall rocks. The vein and argillic altered andesitic hosts to mineralization are moderately fractured with RQDs ranging from <20% locally to typically 50-80%. Mine workings in the lower levels have openings up to 12 m in width without experiencing serious ground problems, but requiring some ground support. Typically, the wider mineralized zones are not close to the hanging wall fault and are less prone to the hanging wall instability issues seen in some other parts of the mine.

    The footwall to the Porvenir Deep zone in its central part consists of oxidized and argillic altered andesite with a number of faults, the latter generally requiring support in the form of split sets. The immediate footwall zone is moderately competent but, from about 10 m to 40 m from the vein, systematic ground support is required, consisting of both split sets and wire mesh. One major fault zone requires more extensive support in the form of timber or steel sets due to water lubrication of the clay-filled fault plane.

    The hanging wall is an andesite with adularia-sericite alteration which varies locally from very weak to very strong, depending on the amount of argillic phases. In the zones of intense argillic hanging wall alteration, ground support such as 3.6 m Swellex bolts and welded mesh support straps are required on a 1.5 m by 1.5 m spacing to maintain stability. In these areas there is always a risk of greater dilution and the mine accounts for this when estimating the reserves. Occasionally, a thin cap of vein material is left on the hanging wall to prevent weathering of the clay and assist with stability.

    16.3      MINING METHOD

    A conventional cut and fill mining method is employed, with the stopes generally 150 m long and 20 m high. Access to the stoping areas is provided by a series of primary and secondary ramps located in the footwall. The ramps have grades from minus 15% to plus 12%, with plus or minus 12% as standard. The cross-sections are 4 m by 4 m for the primary ramps and 3.5 m by 3.5 m for the secondary ramps.

    In the upper parts of the mine, stope access is by short (10 m to 40 m) cross-cuts from the ramp to the vein/stope. These cross-cuts are generally 3.5 m by 3.5 m in cross-section and are usually driven down at minus 18% to intersect with the stope. As the stope advances up-dip on the vein, the back is taken down in these cross-cuts to maintain access until the cross-cut reaches a maximum inclination of 15%.

    In the lower parts of the mine (below the water table) stope access is by 90 m long cross-cuts to the vein/stope. The cross-cuts are generally 3.0 m by 3.5 m in cross-section and are driven at plus 1% to intersect the stope (for water drainage). As the stope advances up-dip on the vein, the back is taken down in these cross-cuts to maintain access until the cross-cut reaches a maximum inclination of plus 15%.

    Mining in the stopes is done with jackleg drills. Back cuts are taken 2 m to 2.5 m high via vertical up-hole drilling or by breasting. The broken material is mucked out using scooptrams (2 yard or 3.5 yard depending on vein width). Waste fill from mine development is placed in the stope by the same scooptrams to within 2 m to 2.5 m of the back. When the vein is less than minimum mining width, the footwall is slashed to provide adequate width. This slashing is done during the fill cycle and the slashed material remains in the stope as fill.

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    Mining dilution has been estimated by Endeavour Silver as variable with a minimum of 0.4 m of overbreak wallrock dilution and a minimum operational vein width of 2.2 m. Additional dilution is derived from the footwall especially in sill development, from occasional hanging wall failure and from re-mucking of floor fill. In general, dilution is estimated at being between 15% and 32%, while unrecoverable ore is estimated at approximately 5%. The dilution material in almost all cases is mineralized and, therefore, it is difficult to estimate its impact on the final grades of the mined ore, particularly as reliable reconciliation is very difficult to achieve. However, the mining dilution is assumed to have an average grade of 90 g/t silver and 0.18 g/t gold.

    Stopes that have high-grade ore in the sill when started are filled with one metre of cemented rock fill to allow recovery of the sill pillar. The cemented rock fill consists of development waste mixed with 5% by weight ordinary Portland cement which is placed over a 5 mm steel welded mesh on the stope sill. The cemented rock fill is mixed in a muck bay adjacent to the stope by the same scooptrams that place it into the stope. The cemented rock fill is placed into the sill starting at the entrance so that the scooptram is driving on top of the fresh fill to provide compaction. This is a common method in Mexico which works well where it is used. Ore and waste transportation is by scooptram and truck haulage.

    Ore and waste haulage is performed using two TORO EJC 522 15 tonne underground trucks which are complemented with four nine tonne capacity diesel highway trucks rented from local contractors. For stope and development mucking, Endeavour Silver currently has four 2-yard scooptrams and six 3.5 -yard scooptrams. Two single boom jumbo drills and jacklegs are used for development headings and stope drilling is by jackleg drilling only. A scissor lift truck for services is now on site to improve operational efficiency. Complete maintenance and service facilities for the underground mobile equipment are located near the mine portal.

    16.4      PRODUCTION AREAS

    Currently in the deep Porvenir North Mine, development of the ramp continues in order to access deeper areas for mineral production. During 2011, the development of the ramp allowed the mine to access the 3129 and 3130 levels, and begin mineral production immediately. At the end of 2011, the ramp is in position to access the 3131 and 3132 levels. In order to start production in these two levels, it is necessary to develop the access into the vein.

    In the Central Porvenir Mine the ramp is in the process of being developed. This ramp allowed access to the 3148 level during 2011, with this level now producing ore. By the end of 2011, the ramp was in position to access the 3149 level, with only the access development needed in order to start production from the vein.

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    In the Santa Cruz mine, the development of the main ramp to access the deepest levels is currently taking place. During 2011, this ramp allowed access to the 3355 and 3356, levels from which production is currently being achieved. The ramp is still under development to create access down to the 3357 level.

    In the Porvenir Dos mine, the construction of the main ramp towards the 3408 level continued. In 2011, the ramp reached the 3408 level which is the last production level of this mine. The production of the ore started immediately after the vein was accessed by a cross-cut drift. A decline access was created to allow more depth when cutting the vein and increased the amount of mineralized vein accessed during production.

    In the Provenir Cuatro mine, the development of the main ramp continued to reach the deepest production zones. During 2011, access was accomplished to the 3503 and 3504 levels from which production began as soon as the vein was reached by access drifts. At the end of 2011, the ramp was still being developed. The main ramp was inclined to cut the vein and create access to the 3500 level. This is the longest level of this mine and it is in production at present. The inclined development of the ramp, to intercept the vein at a higher level (3599) is continuing.

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    17.0      RECOVERY METHODS

    17.1      PRODUCTION

    For the year ending December 31, 2011, silver production was 2,659,956 oz and gold production was 6,845 oz. Plant throughput for 2011 was 363,076 tonnes at an average grade of 311 g/t silver and 0.69 g/t gold. In 2011, mill recoveries averaged 73.3% for silver and 84.8 % for gold.

    17.2      MINERAL PROCESSING

    The mill was originally built in 1970 by the Mexican government and designed to custom mill ores from various mines in the district. Figure 17.1 is a partial view of the mill.

    Figure 17.1
    View of Leach Tanks and CCD circuits

    In 2010, the Guanaceví mill processed ore from the Porvenir mine (North Porvenir and El Porvenir), Porvenir 2 and the metallurgical complex also processed the Guanajuato flotation concentrate. In 2010, grinding had an average capacity of 855 t/d. In 2011, the mill processed ore from the mines of Porvenir Cuatro, Porvenir 2, Porvenir North, and Santa Cruz as well as purchased (third party) ore. In 2011, the grinding circuit had an average capacity of 1,000 t/d. The metallurgical complex continued to process the Guanajuato flotation concentrate in 2011.

    The flotation circuit has a capacity of approximately 420 t/d, while the cyanide leach circuit can process up to 1,000 t/d. The re-commissioned flotation section started processing ore in October, 2008, but is currently shutdown due to insufficient feed.

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    The plant consists of the following circuits:

    • Crushing: ore bins, conventional crushing with a 30"x42" jaw crusher (Figure 17.2), 24”x36” jaw crusher, a 4-foot secondary cone and 3-foot tertiary cone crushers, a 5’x10’ vibrating screen (-½” to -5/8”).

    • Grinding: 5 ball mills, a 10.5’x12’ Hardinge, two 7’x7.5’ Denver, a 5’x 6’ Fimsa ball mill and an Allis-chalmers 5’x4’.

    • Cyanidation and counter-current decantation (CCD) circuit: 16 leach tanks in two series (12 tanks of 20’x20’ and 4 tanks of 30’x30’).

    • Merrill-Crowe circuit with 2 leaf clarifiers and one de-aeration tower.

    • Refinery: two gas fired furnaces.

    • Flotation.

    Figure 17.2
    30”x42” Jaw Crusher

    Oxidized ore is ground and pumped to a 50-foot diameter thickener, where it is thickened to 50% solids. The thickened slurry is transferred to 2 series of agitated leach tanks (12 units of 20’x20’ and 4 units of 30’x30’) that are arranged for gravity flow from tank to tank. Sodium cyanide is added to the slurry at a ratio of 2.7 kg per tonne of solids. The solution from the leaching tanks is processed in a counter-current decantation circuit through five thickeners. The pregnant solution goes to the Merrill-Crowe plant for clarification and precipitation of the silver and gold. The retention time in the leaching plant is about 72 hours.

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    By the end of 2008, silver recovery had improved from 68 to 70% to 78%, due to higher cyanide concentration in the leach process. Oxygen injection was scaled down from August, 2008, and completely stopped in November, 2008, with no detrimental effect on metal recovery. Figure 17.3 is a view of the Merrill-Crowe precious metal recovery circuit.

    Figure 17.3
    Merrill-Crowe Circuit

    In 2009, hydrated lime was switched to quicklime to reduce the consumption and reduce flocculent and diatomaceous earth consumptions in the pregnant solution clarification stages. There was not much improvement and flocculent and diatomaceous earth consumption did not decrease significantly.

    A gas furnace smelts the precipitate to produce doré, which typically averages 98% silver and is shipped for final refining at the Peñoles Met-Mex facility in Torreón. The refined gold and silver is sold through Auramet in London, England.

    The assay laboratory utilizes wet assaying, fire assaying and atomic absorption methods. The laboratory does all of the assaying required for mill processing, as well as assaying mine and exploration samples. Duplicates and blanks are run on a regular basis, as well as check assays at outside laboratories. An external audit was carried out by the Stewart Group and a remodelling of the old sample preparation area was completed, along with the installation of a dust collection system. During the December, 2011 site visit Endeavour Silver was in the process of reviewing and changing a number of the laboratory procedures and operations in order to increase the efficiency of the laboratory and the confidence in its assaying procedures. The procedural and operational changes have been discussed in Section 11 of this report.

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    18.0      PROJECT INFRASTRUCTURE

    Endeavour Silver has all of the necessary mine and mill infrastructure to operate the Guanaceví Mines project efficiently and to all regulatory standards imposed on the project by the various government agencies. Figure 18.1 is a panoramic view of the primary mining infrastructure between the Santa Cruz and Porvenir mines. Figure 18.2 and 18.3 are views of the portals of the Porvenir Dos and Porvenir Cuatro mines, respectively.

    18.1      MINE PUMPING, VENTILATION AND ELECTRICAL

    At shallower depths in the Porvenir mine, drainage and pumping was minimal as very little ground water was encountered. Water was also brought in from the surface for drilling and dust control. As mining proceeded to depth, a second pump station was built at the bottom of the second ventilation borehole to handle water produced from below the water table; the mine is currently pumping to surface between 2,500 and 3,000 gallons per minute, utilizing two pump stations. A third pump station is located in the Santa Cruz area and is pumping 2,000 to 2,500 gallons per minute to surface.

    Principal mine ventilation is provided by one 500 HP exhaust fan, located on surface at the top of a 292 m long by 2.4 m diameter borehole. Two exhaust fans of 100 HP are located 400 m away on a second ventilation borehole, 292 m long and 2.4 m diameter. Fresh air is drawn down the principal ramp and Santa Cruz area, through the workings and exhausted out to the surface through the boreholes. This circuit is moving approximately 195,000 cfm of air. A third ventilation borehole, 285 m long and 2.4 m diameter, is located to the south in the Santa Cruz mine. Secondary ventilation is by conventional axial-vane mine fans that are from 24 to 36 inches in diameter and range in size from 25 HP to 50 HP. These fans blow fresh air into the workings through ventilation ducting.

    Electrical power for the mine is distributed by a series of substations connected to the public power grid, with additional underground transformers added as required. Backup substations are also available.

    Electric power arrives at the mine site via 34.5 kV overhead transmission lines and is reduced by a 2,000 kVA transformer to 13.2 kV and distributed to the Santa Cruz mine surface, the Porvenir mine (ramp 4114), surface compressor station and secondary pump station transformers. The power is taken underground at the Porvenir mine at 13.2 kV via the ventilation borehole to the principal underground transformer. Power is then distributed to portable underground mine transformers, where it is reduced further to 480 V. The Porvenir mine also has 2,000 kW diesel generators capable of maintaining pumping, secondary ventilation and a compressor in case of any power outage. There is a 350 kW diesel generator in Porvenir 4 and a 950 kW diesel generator in Robbins 1 (Table 18.1).

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    Table 18.1
    Stand-by Electrical Generator Capacity

    Equipment Type Capacity Location
    Generator 1 CATERPILLAR 3508 950 kW Porvenir North (Robbins 1)
    Generator 2 CATERPILLAR 3516 2000 kW Porvenir North (Robbins 2)
    Generator 3 CATERPILLAR 3516 2000 kW Porvenir North (Robbins 2)
    Generator 4 CATERPILLAR 3406 350 kW Porvenir 4
    Generator 5 KHOLER 2000 REOZM 2000 kW Porvenir North (Robbins 2)

    Table provided by Endeavour Silver Corp.

    Compressed air is provided by eight electric compressors installed on the surface. Compressed air is brought into the mine by a six-inch diameter pipe that passes down the principal ventilation borehole and then branches up and down the ramps in four inch diameter airlines, reducing two inch airlines that enter the individual working places (Table 18.2).

    Table 18.2
    Compressor Capacity

    Equipment Type Capacity Location
    Compresor 1 IR SSR-EP150 650 CFM Porvenir North (Robbins 1)
    Compresor 2 IR IRN200HCC 900 CFM Porvenir North (Robbins 1)
    Compresor 3 Twistair Joy (Denver) D25 1200 CFM Porvenir North (Robbins 1)
    Compresor 4 IR SSR 1500 LAAM55 1500 CFM Porvenir 2
    Compresor 5 IR SSR 650R-AA15 650 CFM Porvenir 4
    Compresor 6 Atlas Copco GA807 650 CFM Porvenir 2
    Compresor 7 IR SSR 1500 LAAM55 1500 CFM Porvenir North (Robbins 1)
    Compresor 8 SSR-EPE300 1363 CFM Porvenir 4

    Table provided by Endeavour Silver Corp.

    Complete maintenance and service facilities for the underground mobile equipment are located near the Porvenir North mine portal.

    18.2      TAILINGS DAM

    The mill lies adjacent to historic tailings dams which are not utilized in current operations. Endeavour Silver has sampled the old tailings and it is believed that re-treatment of the tailings could possibly add to the economics of the Guanaceví Mines project in the future.

    The new tailings dam currently in use (Figure 18.4) was constructed using the centreline method and is completely lined. The process water is recycled back to the mill.

    In 2010, a new access road around the tailings pond was completed. Construction began in 2011 on the installation of two filter presses with a capacity of 1,350 tonnes each to dry the tailings (Figure 18.5). Dry stacking of tailings will increase the life of the tailings pond. This project should be completed by the end of the first quarter of 2012.

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    Figure 18.4
    Aerial View of the Plant and Tailings Facilities of the Guanaceví Mines Project

    Figure provided by Endeavour Silver Corp. Figure dated January, 2011.

    Figure 18.5
    December, 2011 Construction of the Two Filter Presses for the Dry Stacking of Tailings

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    19.0      MARKET STUDIES AND CONTRACTS

    Endeavour Silver produces silver doré bars which it then ships for further refining. Silver is a widely traded commodity in the world markets and Endeavour Silver has not conducted any market studies for silver.

    As of December 31, 2011, the three year trailing average price for silver was US $23.33/oz, based on the average monthly silver prices posted on the Kitco website (www.kitco.com)

    Endeavour Silver has no contracts or agreements for mining, smelting, refining, transportation, handling or sales, that are outside normal or generally accepted practices within the mining industry. Endeavour Silver has a policy on not hedging or forward selling any of its products.

    In addition to its own workforce, Endeavour Silver has a number of contract mining companies working on its outlying mine sites such as Porvenir Dos and Porvenir Cuarto.

    The doré produced by the Guanaceví mill typically averages 98% silver. The doré is shipped for final refining at the Peñoles Met-Mex facility in Torreón. The refined gold and silver is sold through Auramet in London, England.

    Table 19.1 is a general summary of the contracts that Endeavour Silver has in place at the Guanaceví Mines Project

    Table 19.1
    Summary of Contracts at the Guanaceví Mines Project

    Contract Description Contracting Company Contract Expiry or
    Renewal Date
    Mining works MGA Contratista Minera 30-10-2012
    Fire systems Grupo 10 Ingenieria 29-2-2012
    Diesel supply Distribuidora de combustibles Laguna 30-08-2016
    Drilling services Corebeil 02-02-2012
    Electrical substation installation SEISA 04-12-2011
    Road irrigation Marisol Vazquez 30-05-2012
    Portable sanitary cleaners Federico Cassio 31-07-2012

    Table provided by Endeavour Silver Corp.

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    20.0      ENVIRONMENTAL STUDIES, PERMITTING AND SOCIAL OR COMMUNITY IMPACT

    20.1      ENVIRONMENTAL STUDIES AND PERMITTING

    As part of the mine site reclamation activities, over 500 trees were planted in the areas impacted by the mine exploration programs conducted on the Monte Grande private property and in other impacted areas and camps.

    Fruit trees were donated to the schools in the communities surrounding the project in order to create an environmental awareness among students.

    The validity of the Clean Industry Certificate issued by PROFEPA is from May 24 2010 to May 24, 2012, and Endeavour Silver is continuing to maintain compliance. In addition, the environmental licence issued by SEMARNAT indicates that Endeavour Silver complies with the current environmental regulations in Mexico.

    In 2011, Endeavour Silver obtained environmental authorizations from SEMARNAT to:

    • Reopen the exploration areas in Porvenir Dos.
    • Conduct drilling in Alex Breccia zone.
    • Expand the Robbins 2 of the Porvenir North area.
    • Build access to the Porvenir North 2 area.
    • Construct a 115 KV electrical transmission line.

    Endeavour Silver has always supported a safe working environment. In2011, another ambulance for the mine and 6 complete sets of firefighting equipment were acquired (Figures 20.1 and 20.2). These devices can also be used for any emergency in the community and are available if needed.

    Endeavour Silver holds all necessary environmental and mine permits to conduct planned exploration, development and mining operations on the Guanaceví Mines project.

    20.2      SOCIAL OR COMMUNITY IMPACT

    Endeavour Silver supports the community of Guanaceví and other communities within the municipality.

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    Figure 20.1
    New Mine Ambulance Purchased in 2011

    Figure provided by Endeavour Silver Corp.

    Figure 20.2
    2011 New Fire Fighting Equipment


    Figure provided by Endeavour Silver Corp.

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    Endeavour Silver has offered support to the community in the following areas:

    • Rehabilitation of schools and religious places.
    • Economic support to government institutions.
    • Support for sports.
    • Donation of materials such as computers to the schools.
    • Donations of reusable materials to the community.
    • Support for community celebrations.
    • Food support.
    • Assistance with some transportation.
    • Guided tours of school classes to the plant.
    • Health support (vaccinations and wheelchairs).
    • General cultural support.

    Endeavour Silver continues to support the communities and the social aspirations of the citizens of the area surrounding the mine, in order to improve the health and well-being of not only its employees and their families but of the community in general.

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    21.0      CAPITAL AND OPERATING COSTS

    21.1      CAPITAL COSTS

    In 2011, the plant expansion and upgrade program was completed at the Guanaceví Mines project. During the year, emphasis was on expanding plant capacity.

    Capital projects completed in 2011 included:

    • Mine development, 7,580 m.
    • New access road around tailing pond.
    • Pump stations.
    • Electrical power substations.
    • Robbins drill for Porvenir Cuatro.
    • Robbins drill for Santa Cruz.

    For 2012, Endeavour Silver has US $21.3 million budgeted for capital projects at the Guanaceví Mines project (Table 21.1). This budget for capital expenditure on the mine and plant and is in addition to the exploration budget presented in Section 26.

    Table 21.1
    2012 Capital Cost Estimates for the Guanaceví Mines Project

    Description Cost (US $)
    Mine equipment 8,257,627
    Assay laboratory 45,500
    Plant 2,559,000
    Mobile Equipment 1,296,450
    Mine exploration 2,097,000
    Development 6,406,049
    Buildings 211,180
    Office Equipment 179,000
    Vehicles 232,232
    Total 21,284,000

    Table provided by Endeavour Silver Corp.

    21.2      OPERATING COSTS

    The cash operating cost of silver produced at the Guanaceví Mines project in fiscal year 2011 was $9.71 per oz, compared to $8.34 in 2010. Cash operating cost per ounce of silver is calculated net of gold credits and royalties. On a per tonne of ore processed basis, the cash operating costs in 2011 averaged US $100.35/t, compared to US $113.69/t in 2010.

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    22.0      ECONOMIC ANALYSIS

    22.1      INTRODUCTION

    Mining, worldwide, is generally maintaining its growth cycle, in which the prices of a large number of mining commodities have reached high levels. Endeavour Silver is consolidating its position and is exploring alternatives, in the short term, to continue taking advantage of the excellent opportunities that are being presented to continue its growth.

    Challenges which Endeavour Silver faces include:

    • New financial statements resulting from the application of International Financial Reporting Standard(s) (IFRS) in the mining industry.

    • Regulation of Securities Market Act, corporate governance and Sarbanes-Oxley.

    • Sustainable development and social responsibility.

    • Mineral exploration projects and growth management.

    22.2      TAXES

    Taxation in Canada and Mexico is often complex and varies from one jurisdiction to the other. There are numerous calculations and allowances, all of which are outside the scope of this report. However, taxes are all levied in the normal course of business. Endeavour Silver is subject to the taxing jurisdictions of Durango, Mexico and Canada. Endeavour Silver represents that all taxes assessed have been paid or will be paid when due, aside from any protests or other tax relief available under law.

    22.3      ECONOMIC ANALYSIS

    Micon has not undertaken a cash flow analysis for the Guanaceví Mines project due to the fact that there are currently only mineral reserves sufficient for a short term operation of approximately 3½ years. The mine life is based upon a continued plant throughput of 442,800 t, forecast for 2012.

    22.4      2012 PRODUCTION FORECAST

    For 2012, Endeavour Silver is forecasting production of 2,870,978 million ounces of silver and 7,580 ounces of gold from the Guanaceví Mines project. Plant throughput for 2012 is forecast at 442,800 t at an estimated average grade of 269 g/t silver and 0.63 g/t gold. Recoveries are forecast to average 76.3% and 82.8% for silver and gold, respectively. Plant throughput is based on production from the Porvenir North mine, Porvenir Dos mine and third party ore bought from local miners. The production plans for the Porvenir mine reserves are presented in Figures 22.1 to 22.5.

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    The property has a substantial undeveloped resource potential. Beyond 2012, Endeavour Silver believes that continued exploration and development will lead to the discovery of new resources, and Endeavour Silver actively continues acquiring rights to new properties in the Guanaceví district.

    Figure 22.1
    Longitudinal Section of the Deep Porvenir North Mine (Looking Northeast) showing the Mine and
    Development Plans through December, 2012

    Figure provided by Endeavour Silver Corp. Figure dated February, 2012.

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    Figure 22.2
    Longitudinal Section of the Central Porvenir North Mine (Looking Northeast) showing the Mine and
    Development Plans through December, 2012

    Figure provided by Endeavour Silver Corp. Figure dated February, 2012.

    Figure 22.3
    Longitudinal Section of the Santa Cruz Mine (Looking Northeast) showing the Mine and Development
    Plans through December, 2012

    Figure provided by Endeavour Silver Corp. Figure dated February, 2012.

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    Figure 22.4
    Longitudinal Section of the Porvenir Dos Mine (Looking Northeast) showing the Mine and Development
    Plans through December, 2012

    Figure provided by Endeavour Silver Corp. Figure dated February, 2012.

    Figure 22.5
    Longitudinal Section of the Porvenir Cuatro Mine (Looking Northeast) showing the Mine and
    Development Plans through December, 2012

    Figure provided by Endeavour Silver Corp. Figure dated February, 2012.

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    23.0      ADJACENT PROPERTIES

    23.1      INTRODUCTION

    Endeavour Silver’s property exists within the Guanaceví mining district which has hosted several past producers, a number of which are located on the property. The majority of the past producers in the district are located on quartz veins that are similar or related to those found on the Guanaceví property. However, there are no immediately adjacent properties which directly affect the interpretation and evaluation of the mineralization or anomalies found on the Guanaceví property. The geology, nature of the mineralization, historical production over the last two centuries and the limited use of modern exploration concepts and technology on the property to identify new areas of mineralization.

    23.2      OTHER SILVER/GOLD PRODUCTION ACTIVITY IN THE GUANACEVI MINING DISTRICT

    The MG plant performs custom milling and processing for several small mines in the Guanaceví district. These mines include the La Anima Chica mine owned by Saul y Noel Olivas, the San Martin mine owned by Gerardo Rivera, the Capuzaya mine owned by Roberto Velazquez, the El as de Oros mine owned by Efrain Macho and a handful of other smaller operations. The cumulative tonnage from these operations runs between 1,500 and 2,000 tonnes per month, and the material from each mine is run through the MG plant separately in batch mode. Each mine exploits quartz-carbonate veins similar in character to the Santa Cruz mineralization, but with varying amounts of base metals.

    There are two other plants in the district. One is owned by Cesar Loera and is treating about 100 t/d. The other is located at the San Rafael property and processes about 50 t/p.

    The prominent mineral properties and mines within the Guanaceví mining district are shown on Figure 23.1.

    Figure 23.2 is a view of a small privately owned headframe located just off of Endeavour Silver’s property.

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    Figure 23.2
    Small Privately Owned Headframe Located just off the Endeavour Silver Property

    210



    24.0      OTHER RELEVANT DATA AND INFORMATION

    At the writing of this report, all relevant data and information regarding Endeavour Silver’s Guanaceví Mines project are included in other sections of this report.

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    25.0      INTERPRETATION AND CONCLUSIONS

    25.1      INTERPRETATION

    Endeavour Silver’s Guanaceví Mines project has an extensive mining history and well known silver and gold bearing vein systems. The ongoing exploration programs have continued to demonstrate the potential for the discovery of additional resources and reserves as development and exploration at the mine continues and within the district surrounding the mine. New mining areas have enabled Endeavour Silver to increase production by providing additional sources of mill feed.

    In addition, since taking over the day-to-day operation of the mine, Endeavour Silver has continued to implement measures in a number of areas which have culminated in increased productivity and efficiency, leading to cost savings. Further improvements in implementing low cost mining techniques should allow mining to be expanded beyond the boundaries of previously mined areas and extended into new areas.

    25.1.1      December 31, 2011 Mineral Resource Estimate

    The overall mineral resources for the Guanaceví Mines project are summarized in Table 25.1.

    Table 25.1
    December 31, 2011 Mineral Resource Estimate, Guanaceví Mines Project

    Category Tonnes Silver (g/t) Gold (g/t) Silver (oz) Gold (oz) Silver Eq (oz)
    Measured (M)            
    Indicated (I) 2,849,000 217 0.42 19,922,300 38,800 22,056,300
    Total M and I 2,849,000 217 0.42 19,922,300 38,800 22,056,300
                 
    Inferred 2,013,000 217 0.40 14,050,900 26,200 15,491,900

    1.

    Mineral resources which are not mineral reserves do not have demonstrated economic viability. The estimate of mineral resources may be materially affected by environmental, permitting, legal, title, taxation, sociopolitical, marketing, or other relevant issues.

       
    2.

    There has been insufficient exploration to define the inferred resources as an indicated or measured mineral resource. It is uncertain if further exploration will result in upgrading them to an indicated or measured mineral resource category.

    Anticipated future success in exploration will continue to strengthen Endeavour Silver’s position at the Guanaceví Mines project.

    25.1.2      December 31, 2011 Mineral Reserve Estimate

    The overall mineral reserves for the Guanaceví Mines project are summarized in Table 25.2.

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    Table 25.2
    December 31, 2011 Proven and Probable Mineral Reserve Estimate

    Category Tonnes Silver (g/t) Gold (g/t) Silver (oz) Gold (oz) Silver Eq (oz)
    Proven 773,000 304 0.65 7,555,500 16,200 8,446,500
    Probable 799,000 231 0.39 5,935,400 10,100 6,490,900
                 
    Total Proven & Probable 1,572,000 267 0.52 13,490,900 26,300 14,937,400

    In the short to medium term, more reserves are expected to be generated in the immediate surroundings of the current reserve blocks. For the long-term, sustainability will require maintaining the current levels of exploration teams and budgets, and the current levels of exploration success.

    The process of mineral resource and reserve estimation includes technical information which requires subsequent calculations or estimates to derive sub-totals, totals and weighted averages. Such calculations or estimations inherently involve a degree of rounding and consequently introduce a margin of error. Where these occur, Micon does not consider them to be material. The reserve and resource figures in Tables 25.1 through 25.3 have been rounded in most cases to reflect that the numbers are estimates. Mineral resources that are not mineral reserves do not have demonstrated economic viability.

    25.2      CONCLUSIONS

    25.2.1      Mineral Resources and Reserves for the Guanaceví Mines Project

    The Guanaceví resource and reserve estimates presented herein conform to the current CIM standards and definitions for estimating resources and reserves as required under NI 43-101 “Standards of Disclosure for Mineral Projects.” They form the basis for Endeavour Silver’s ongoing mining operations at the Guanaceví Mines project. In Micon’s opinion, there are no significant technical, legal, environmental or political considerations which would affect the extraction and processing of the resources and reserves at the Guanaceví Mines project.

    25.2.2      Future Potential

    Micon considers that the mineral concessions in the Guanaceví mining district controlled by Endeavour Silver continue to be highly prospective both along strike and down dip of the existing mineralization and that further resources could be converted into reserves with additional exploration and development.

    Endeavour Silver is in the position of being able to apply modern exploration concepts and technology to one of the major historical mining districts in Mexico which previously had experienced only limited exploration. Therefore, Micon believes that the property continues to hold the potential for the discovery of deposits of similar character and grade as those currently being exploited or mined in the past, either along the trend of the vein or at depth below the presently exploited areas.

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    Also, in the case of the Guanaceví Mines project, although a number of mineralized areas have been exploited in the past, improvements in mining techniques have allowed mining to be expanded within the boundaries of previously mined areas and extended into new areas.

    Micon is satisfied that Endeavour Silver’s exploration and development objectives for the year ended December 31, 2011 have been met, as evidenced by the continuing discovery of areas of mineralization which have been added to the resources and reserves on the project. Micon believes that the program for further exploration on the Guanaceví Mines project proposed by Endeavour Silver is both warranted and justified as the potential for the continuing discovery of additional resources is good.

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    26.0      RECOMMENDATIONS

    26.1      BUDGET FOR FURTHER WORK

    Endeavour Silver’s exploration programs are ongoing and exploration efficiencies appear to be improving progressively as new resources are being discovered.

    In 2012, Endeavour Silver plans a follow-up surface exploration program focused on several of the new discoveries made in the San Pedro sub-district, Milache and La Brisa, near its mining operation at Guanaceví. Endeavour Silver will also conduct a regional exploration program to investigate several new prospective targets within the district. The mine will continue to conduct both surface and underground drilling in order to further define the mineralization in the operational area. The primary long-term goal of this program is to expand reserves and resources and to identify properties for potential acquisition in the Guanaceví district for future growth.

    Table 26.1 summarizes the planned 2012 exploration budget for the Guanaceví Mines project.

    Table 26.1
    Guanaceví Exploration Priority Targets – 2012

    Project Area 2012 Program Budget
    US $
    Holes Metres Samples
    Surface Exploration Drilling
    San Pedro 10 3.000 1,200 490,000
    Milache 12 6,000 2,400 1,010,000
    La Brisa 15 6,000 2,600 1,019,200
    Guanaceví Regional Exploration 5 1,500 1,000 366,900
    Subtotal 42 16,500 7,200 2,886,100
    Mine Operations Exploration Drilling
    Porvenir North 6 1,511 ---- 226,704
    Santa Cruz 7 2,142 ---- 321,279
    Ramp 4115 27 1,290 ---- 219,230
    Alex Breccia 26 10,272 ---- 1,540,736
    La Prieta 8 2,113 ---- 316,918
    Subtotal 74 17,328 ---- 2,624,867
    Total 116 33,828 ---- 5,510,967

    Figure provided by Endeavour Silver Corp.

    26.1.1      Surface Exploration Program

    The 2012 surface exploration program is planned to include 16,500 m of core in approximately 42 diamond drill holes to test mantos, stockworks and veins in the San Pedro sub-district, the Santa Cruz vein on the Milache claim, and new veins discovered in the La Brisa area. Drilling proposed for the San Pedro sub-district will mainly test high grade veins and mantos in the Cambio-Nueva Australia areas.

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    Given that (1) the known mineralization on the Santa Cruz vein extends some 4,500 m along strike, (2) the mineralized zones in the Deep Santa Cruz, Porvenir and Alex Breccia areas are open at depth, and (3) the down-dip potential of the Deep Santa Cruz, Porvenir, Porvenir Dos and Alex Breccia areas does not appear to be constrained by the increase in base-metal to silver and gold ratios, Endeavour Silver could reasonably expect that further exploration may yield additional mineralized areas which could have a positive impact on the resources and possibly on the reserves as exploration and development continue at the Guanaceví Mines project.

    Micon believes that the program for further exploration on the Guanaceví Mines project proposed by Endeavour Silver is both warranted and justified as the potential for the continuing discovery of additional resources is good.

    The proposed exploration program will focus on expanding the highest priority discovery areas in order to prepare them for an updated reserve/resource report at year-end 2012.

    The detailed budget for the priority surface exploration targets for Endeavour Silver’s surface exploration division is summarized in Table 26.2.

    Table 26.2
    Guanaceví Surface Exploration Division Budget – 2012

    Area ACTIVITY (units) Units Unit Cost
    (US $)
    Total Cost
    (US $)
    Brisa Assays - rock & soil (sample) 200 30 6,000
    Assays - core (sample) 2,400 40 96,000
    Consultants (days)   1,200  
    Surface diamond drilling (m) 6,000 125 750,000
    Field and office supplies (weeks) 16 500 8,000
    Housing and food (weeks) 16 300 4,800
    Geology and engineering personnel (weeks) 16 3,000 48,000
    Salaries - labour (weeks) 16 1,200 19,200
    Trenches, roads, drill pads and reclaimation (weeks) 16 3,500 56,000
    Trenches – Sampling only (days)   500  
    Travel and lodging (weeks) 16 100 1,600
    Vehicle inc. gasoline, repair and maintenance (weeks) 16 500 8,000
    Surface use agreements (months) 4 5,000 20,000
    Expenses non-deductable (weeks) 16 100 1,600
    Brisa Subtotal 1,019,200
    Cambio - Nueva Australia Assays - rock & soil (sample)   30  
    Assays - core (sample) 1,200 40 48,000
    Consultants (days)   1,200  
    Surface diamond drilling (m) 3,000 120 360,000
    Field and office supplies (weeks) 8 500 4,000
    Housing and food (weeks) 8 300 2,400
    Geology and engineering personnel (weeks) 8 3,000 24,000
    Salaries - labour (weeks) 8 1,200 9,600
    Trenches, roads, drill pads and reclaimation (weeks) 8 3,500 28,000
    Trenches – Sampling only (days)   500  

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    Area ACTIVITY (units) Units Unit Cost
    (US $)
    Total Cost
    (US $)
    Travel and lodging (weeks) 8 100 800
    Vehicle inc. gasoline, repair and maintenance (weeks) 8 300 2,400
    Surface use agreements (months) 2 5,000 10,000
    Expenses non-deductable (weeks) 8 100 800
    Cambio - Nueva Austalia Subtotal 490,000
    Milache Assays - rock & soil (sample)   30  
    Assays - core (sample) 2,400 40 96,000
    Consultants (days)   1,200  
    Surface diamond drilling (m) 6,000 125 750,000
    Field and office supplies (weeks) 16 500 8,000
    Housing and food (weeks) 16 300 4,800
    Geology and engineering personnel (weeks) 16 3,000 48,000
    Salaries - labour (weeks) 16 1,200 19,200
    Trenches, roads, drill pads and reclaimation (weeks) 16 3,500 56,000
    Trenches – Sampling only (days)   500  
    Travel and lodging (weeks) 16 100 1,600
    Vehicle inc. gasoline, repair and maintenance (weeks) 16 300 4,800
    Surface use agreements (months) 4 5,000 20,000
    Expenses non-deductable (weeks) 16 100 1,600
    Milache Subtotal 1,010,000
    Guanaceví Regional Assays - rock & soil (sample) 400 30 12,000
    Assays - core (sample) 600 40 24,000
    Consultants (days) 12 1,200 14,400
    Surface diamond drilling (m) 1,500 145 217,500
    Field and office supplies (weeks) 20 500 10,000
    Housing and food (weeks) 20 300 6,000
    Geology and engineering personnel (weeks) 20 1,000 20,000
    Salaries - labour (weeks) 20 1,200 24,000
    Trenches, roads, drill pads and reclaimation (weeks) 4 3,500 14,000
    Trenches – Sampling only (days) 10 500 5,000
    Travel and lodging (weeks) 20 100 2,000
    Vehicle inc. gasoline, repair and maintenance (weeks) 20 300 6,000
    Surface use agreements (months) 2 5,000 10,000
    Expenses non-deductable (weeks) 20 100 2,000
    Guanaceví Regional Subtotal 366,900
    Guanaceví Project Exploration Total 2,886,100

    Table supplied by Endeavour Silver Corp. (Note: the total amount is exclusive of the US $2,624,867 allocated to Porvenir mine for surface and underground exploration)

    26.1.2      Mine Surface and Underground Exploration Programs

    The mine exploration program to be conducted by Endeavour Silver’s mining division will cover a number of areas, with the objective of increasing the resources and potentially the reserves at the Guanaceví project. A total of 17,328 m over 74 holes is proposed for the 2012 drilling program at a cost of approximately US $2,624,867 (Table 26.1). The proposed drilling program will be conducted in the following areas: Porvenir North, Santa Cruz, Ramp 4115, Alex Breccia and La Prieta.

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    Figures 26.1 through 26.5 (the scale for these figures is 1 square = 100 metres) are plan and longitudinal views of the 2012 mine exploration program with the drilling being primarily conducted underground. Note that in all of the following figures, NW and SE stand for northwest and southeast, respectively.

    Figure 26.1
    Longitudinal Section and Plan View of the 2012 North Porvenir Central Drilling Program

    Figure supplied by Endeavour Silver Corp. Figure dated February, 2012.

    218



    Figure 26.2
    Longitudinal Section and Plan View of the 2012 Santa Cruz Drilling Program

    Figure supplied by Endeavour Silver Corp. Figure dated February, 2012.

    219



    Figure 26.3
    Longitudinal Section and Plan View of the 2012 Ramp 4115 Drilling Program

    Figure supplied by Endeavour Silver Corp. Figure dated February, 2012.

    220



    Figure 26.4
    Longitudinal Section and Plan View of the 2012 Alex Breccia Drilling Program


    Figure supplied by Endeavour Silver Corp. Figure dated February, 2012.

    221



    Figure 26.5
    Longitudinal Section and Plan View of the 2012 La Prieta Drilling Program

    Figure supplied by Endeavour Silver Corp. Figure dated February, 2012.

    222



    26.1.3      Micon Comments

    Micon has reviewed Endeavour Silver’s proposal for further exploration on its Guanaceví Mines property and recommends that Endeavour Silver conducts the exploration program as proposed subject to funding and any other matters which may cause the proposed exploration program to be altered in the normal course of its business activities or alterations which may affect the program as a result of exploration activities themselves.

    26.2      FURTHER RECOMMENDATIONS

    Micon makes the following additional recommendations to assist Endeavour Silver in its exploration and resource/reserve estimation processes:

      1)

    Micon recommends that future budgets should include modern-day technology sampling tools to improve the quality of the underground samples used for evaluation.

         
      2)

    Micon recommends that Endeavour Silver continues to develop an effective reconciliation plan for the Guanaceví Mines project. The ability to be able to reconcile the ore mined and milled on a stope-by-stope basis to the original estimates for the stope will be a critical factor in future resource and reserve estimations. The reconciliations will form the basis of reviewing dilution estimates, mining loss and gain estimates, and will assist in reviewing the classification categories of the resources.

         
      3)

    Micon recommends that Endeavour Silver continues to have its on-site laboratory participate in a proficiency program of round-robin laboratory testing such as the one run by CanMet. This will continue to assist the on-site laboratory in assessing its performance for one or more analytical methods independently of internal quality control. Coupled with this program, a total of between 5% and 10% of the samples submitted to the on-site assay laboratory should continue to be sent out to a secondary accredited laboratory

    223


    27.0      DATE AND SIGNATURE PAGE

    MICON INTERNATIONAL LIMITED  
       
       
    “William J. Lewis” {Signed and Sealed}  
       
       
    William J. Lewis, B.Sc., P.Geo.  
    Senior Geologist March 30, 2012
       
       
    “Charley Z. Murahwi” {Signed and Sealed}  
       
       
    Charley Z. Murahwi, M.Sc., P.Geo, FMAusIMM  
    Senior Geologist March 30, 2012
       
       
    “Alan J. San Martin” {Signed and Sealed}  
       
       
    Ing., Alan J. San Martin, MAusIMM (CP)  
    Mineral Resource Modeller March 30, 2011

    224



    28.0      REFERENCES

    Bordeaux, Albert F.J., (1908), The Silver Mines of Mexico, Transactions of the Amercan Institute of Mining Engineers, Volume XXXIX (1908) 1909, pages 357 to368.

    Devlin, B.D., (2008), NI 43-101 Technical Report on the Resource and Reserve Estimates for the Guanaceví Mines Project, Durango State, Mexico.

    Endeavour Silver, (2008), Endeavour Silver Corp. Management Discussion and Analysis for the Year Ended December 31, 2007, Draft Copy, 23 p.

    Lewis, W.J. Leader, R.J. and Mukhopadhyay, D.K., (2007), NI 43-101 Technical Report Audit of the Resource and Reserve Estimates for the Guanaceví Mines Project, Durango State, Mexico, 103 p.

    Lewis, W.J., Murahwi, C., Leader, R.J. and Mukhopadhyay, D.K., (2009), NI 43-101 Technical Report Audit of the Resource and Reserve Estimates for the Guanaceví Mines Project, Durango State, Mexico, 224 p.

    Lewis, W.J., Murahwi, C., Leader, R.J. and Mukhopadhyay, D.K., (2010), NI 43-101 Technical Report Audit of the Resource and Reserve Estimates for the Guanaceví Mines Project, Durango State, Mexico, 275 p.

    Lewis, W.J., Murahwi, C., Leader, R.J. and Mukhopadhyay, D.K., (2011), NI 43-101 Technical Report Audit of the Resource and Reserve Estimates for the Guanaceví Mines Project, Durango State, Mexico, 291 p.

    Olson, A. E., (2006), Technical Report, Mineral Resource and Minera Reserve Estimate, Guanaceví Mines Project, Durango, Mexico for Endeavour Silver, 122 p.

    Ramirez, Santiago, (1884), Noticia Historica de la Riqueza Minera De Mexico Y de Su Actual Estado de Explotacion, 768 p.

    Salas, G.P., et al, (1991), Economic Geology, Mexico, Volume P-3 of the Geology of North America, in The Decade of North American Geology Project series by The Geological Society of America, Inc., 438 p.

    Southworth, J.R., (1905), Las Minas de México (Edición Ilustrada) Historia, Geologia, Antigua Mineria y Descipción General de los Estados Mineros de la República Mexicana, En Español é Inglés, 260 p.

    Spring, V., (2005), A Technical Review of the North Porvenir Zone, Santa Cruz Mine, Guanaceví Mines Project in Durango State, Mexico for Endeavour Silver Corp. 67 p.

    225



    Wilson, G., (1882), Mexico As A Field For Miners, Engineering and Mining Journal, Volume 34, page 7.

    Wilson, G., (1882), Mining Progress in Mexico, Engineering and Mining Journal, Volume 34, page 55.

    226



    29.0      CERTIFICATES

     

     

    227



    CERTIFICATE OF AUTHOR
    WILLIAM J. LEWIS

    As the co-author of this report on the Guanaceví Mines Project of Endeavour Silver Corp., in Durango State, Mexico, I, William J. Lewis do hereby certify that:

    1)

    I am employed as a Senior Geologist by, and carried out this assignment for, Micon International Limited, Suite 900, 390 Bay Street, Toronto, Ontario M5H 2Y2, tel. (416) 362-5135, fax (416) 362-5763, e-mail wlewis@micon- international.com;

       
    2)

    I hold the following academic qualifications:

    B.Sc. (Geology)         University of British Columbia              1985

    3)

    I am a registered Professional Geoscientist with the Association of Professional Engineers and Geoscientists of Manitoba (membership # 20480); as well, I am a member in good standing of several other technical associations and societies, including:

         
  • Association of Professional Engineers and Geoscientists of British Columbia (Membership # 20333)

         
  • Association of Professional Engineers, Geologists and Geophysicists of the Northwest Territories (Membership # 1450)

         
  • Association of Professional Geoscientists of Ontario (Membership # 1522)

         
  • The Geological Association of Canada (Associate Member # A5975)

         
  • The Canadian Institute of Mining, Metallurgy and Petroleum (Member # 94758)

         
    4)

    I have worked as a geologist in the minerals industry for 27 years;

         
    5)

    I am familiar with NI 43-101 and, by reason of education, experience and professional registration, I fulfill the requirements of a Qualified Person as defined in NI 43-101. My work experience includes 4 years as an exploration geologist looking for gold and base metal deposits, more than 11 years as a mine geologist in underground mines and 5 years as a surficial geologist and 6 years as a consulting geologist on precious and base metals and industrial minerals;

         
    6)

    I first visited the property from December 16 to 18, 2006 and subsequently from December 12 to 16, 2011;

         
    7)

    I have co-authored the previous Micon Technical Reports for the mineral properties in question;

         
    8)

    As of the date of this certificate to the best of my knowledge, information and belief, the Technical Report contains all scientific and technical information that is required to be disclosed to make this report not misleading;

         
    9)

    I am independent of Endeavour Silver Corp. as defined by Canadian NI 43-101 regulations and have provided consulting services to Endeavour Silver;

         
    10)

    I have read the NI 43-101 Instrument and this Technical Report has been prepared in compliance with this Instrument;

         
    11)

    I am responsible for the preparation of Sections 1 through 10, 13 15, 16 through 24, 27 and 28 of the Technical Report dated March 30, 2012 entitled “NI 43-101 Technical Report, Resource and Reserve Estimates for the Guanaceví Mines Project, Durango State Mexico, Report Date: March 30, 2012, Effective Date: December 31, 2011.”

    Dated this 30th day of March, 2012

    “William J. Lewis”

    William J. Lewis, B.Sc., P.Geo.
    Senior Geologist,
    Micon International Limited

    228



    CERTIFICATE OF AUTHOR
    CHARLEY Z. MURAHWI

    As a co-author of this report on the Guanaceví Mines Project of Endeavour Silver Corp., I, Charley Z. Murahwi do hereby certify that:

    1)

    I am employed as an Senior Geologist by, and carried out this assignment for, Micon International Limited, Suite 900, 390 Bay Street, Toronto, Ontario M5H 2Y2, telephone 416 362 5135, fax 416 362 5763, e-mail cmurahwi@micon-international.com.

       
    2)

    I hold the following academic qualifications:

       
    B. Sc. (Geology ) University of Rhodesia, Zimbabwe, 1979;
       

    Diplome d'Ingénieur Expert en Techniques Minières, Nancy, France, 1987;

       
    M. Sc. (Economic Geology), Rhodes University, South Africa, 1996.
       
    3)

    I am a registered Professional Geoscientist of Ontario (membership number 1618), a Fellow in Geology of the Australasian Institute of Mining & Metallurgy (MAusIMM) (membership number 300395) and am also a registered Professional Natural Scientist with the South African Council for Natural and Scientific Professions (membership # 400133/09).

       
    4)

    I have worked as a mining and exploration geologist in the minerals industry for over 28 years;

       
    5)

    I do, by reason of education, experience and professional registration, fulfill the requirements of a Qualified Person as defined in NI 43-101. My work experience includes 14 years on gold, silver, copper, tin and tantalite projects (on and off- mine), and 12 years on Cr-Ni-Cu-PGE deposits in layered intrusions/komatiitic environments.


    6)

    I visited the Guanaceví Mines Project in Mexico during the periods of September 6 to 9, 2008, November 20 to 22, 2009, June 23 to 25, 2010 and from December 12 to 16, 2011. I also visited the Endeavour Silver exploration office in Durango (Mexico) on September 5, 2008 and on November 19, 2009.


    7)

    I have co-authored the previous Micon Technical Reports for the mineral properties in question;

       
    8)

    As of the date of this certificate to the best of my knowledge, information and belief, the Technical Report contains all scientific and technical information that is required to be disclosed to make this report not misleading;

       
    9)

    I am independent of Endeavour Silver Corp. as defined by Canadian NI 43-101 regulations and have provided consulting services to Endeavour Silver;

       
    10)

    I have read the NI 43-101 and the portions of this Technical Report for which I am responsible have been prepared in compliance with this Instrument.


    11)

    I am responsible for the preparation of Sections 11, 12, 14, 25, and 26 of this Technical Report dated March 30, 2012 entitled “NI 43-101 Technical Report, Resource and Reserve Estimates for the Guanaceví Mines Project, Durango State Mexico, Report Date: March 30, 2012, Effective Date: December 31, 2011.”

    Dated this 30th day of March, 2012

    “Charley Z. Murahwi”

    Charley Z. Murahwi, M.Sc., P. Geo., MAusIMM (Fellow)

    229



    CERTIFICATE OF AUTHOR
    ING. ALAN J. SAN MARTIN, MAUSIMM (CP)

    As the co-author of this report on the Guanaceví Mines Project of Endeavour Silver Corp., I, Alan J. San Martin do hereby certify that:

    1)

    I am employed as a Mineral Resource Modeller by Micon International Limited, Suite 900, 390 Bay Street, Toronto, Ontario M5H 2Y2, tel. (416) 362-5135, fax (416) 362-5763, e-mail asanmartin@micon-international.com.


    2)

    I hold a Bachelor Degree in Mining Engineering (equivalent to B.Sc.) from the National University of Piura, Peru, 1999.


    3)

    I am a member in good standing of the following professional entities:

         
    1.

    The Australasian Institute of Mining and Metallurgy, accredited Chartered Professional in Geology, Membership #301778.

         
    2.

    Canadian Institute of Mining, Metallurgy and Petroleum, Member ID 151724.

         
    3.

    Colegio de Ingenieros del Perú (CIP), Membership # 79184.

         
    4)

    I have continuously worked in my profession since 1999, my experience includes mining exploration, mineral deposit modelling, mineral resource estimation and consulting services for the mineral industry.

         
    5)

    I am familiar with NI 43-101 and form 43-101F1 regulations and by reason of education, experience and professional registration with MAusIMM, I fulfill the requirements of a Qualified Person as defined in NI 43-101.

         
    6)

    I have not visited the Guanaceví Mines Project.

         
    7)

    As of the date of this certificate to the best of my knowledge, information and belief, the Technical Report contains all scientific and technical information that is required to be disclosed to make this report not misleading.

         
    8)

    I am independent of Endeavour Silver Corp. as defined by Canadian NI 43-101 regulations and have provided consulting services to Endeavour Silver;

         
    9)

    I have read the NI 43-101 and the portions of this Technical Report which I assisted in preparing and they have been prepared in compliance with this Instrument;

         
    10)

    I assisted in the preparation of Sections 14 and 15 of this Technical Report dated March 30, 2012 entitled “NI 43-101 Technical Report Resource and Reserve Estimates for the Guanaceví Mines Project, Durango State Mexico, Report Date: March 30, 2012, Effective Date: December 31, 2011.”

    Dated this 30th day of March, 2012

    Alan J. San Martin”

    Ing. Alan J. San Martin, MAusIMM (CP)
    Mineral Resource Modeller
    Micon International Limited

    230



    APPENDIX 1

    GLOSSARY OF MINING TERMS

     

     

     

    231





    GLOSSARY AND DEFINED TERMS
     

    The following is a glossary of certain mining terms that may be used in this Technical Report.

    A  
       
    Adit

    A horizontal passage from the surface into the mine providing access to a mineral deposit.

     

     

    Ag

    Silver. A metallic chemical element with the chemical symbol Ag (Latin: argentum, from the Indo-European root *arg- for "grey" or "shining") and atomic number 47. A soft, white, lustrous transition metal, it has the highest electrical conductivity of any element and the highest thermal conductivity of any metal. The metal occurs naturally in its pure, free form (native silver), as an alloy with gold and other metals, and in minerals such as argentite and chlorargyrite. Most silver is produced as a by-product of copper, gold, lead, and zinc refining.

     

     

    Arsenopyrite

    A tin-white or silver-white to steel-gray orthorhombic mineral: FeAsS.

     

     

    Assay

    A chemical test performed on a sample of ores or minerals to determine the amount of valuable metals contained.

     

     

    Au

    Gold. A chemical element with the symbol Au (from Latin: aurum "gold") and an atomic number of 79. Gold is a dense, soft, shiny, malleable and ductile metal. Pure gold has a bright yellow colour and luster traditionally considered attractive, which it maintains without oxidizing in air or water. Chemically, gold is a transition metal and a group 11 element. It is one of the least reactive solid chemical elements. The metal therefore occurs often in free elemental (native) form, as nuggets or grains in rocks, in veins and in alluvial deposits. Less commonly, it occurs in minerals as gold compounds, usually with tellurium.

     

    B

     

     

    Backfill

    Waste material used to fill the void created by mining an mineral deposit (orebody).

     

     

    Back

    A term used to denote the roof or ceiling of a mining drift.

     

     

    Ball mill

    A steel cylinder filled with steel balls into which crushed ore is fed. The ball mill is rotated, causing the balls to cascade and grind the ore.

     

     

    Base metal

    Any non-precious metal (eg. copper, lead, zinc, nickel, etc.).

     

     

    Blasthole

    A drill hole in a mine that is filled with explosives in order to blast loose a quantity of rock.

    232





    Bulk mining

    Any large-scale, mechanized method of mining involving many thousands of tonnes of ore being brought to surface per day.

     

     

    Bulk sample

    A large sample of mineralized rock, frequently hundreds of tonnes, selected in such a manner as to be representative of the potential mineral deposit (orebody) being sampled and used to determine metallurgical characteristics.

     

     

    Bullion

    Metal formed into bars or ingots.

     

     

    By-product

    A secondary metal or mineral product recovered in the milling process.

     

    C

     

     

    Cage

    Mining term used for an elevator.

     

     

    Calcine

    Name given to concentrate that is ready for smelting (i.e. the sulphur has been driven off by oxidation).

     

     

    Chalcopyrite

    A sulphide mineral of copper and iron; the most important ore mineral of copper.

     

     

    Channel sample

    A sample composed of pieces of vein or mineral deposit that have been cut out of a small trench or channel, usually about 10 cm wide and 2 cm deep.

     

     

    Chip sample

    A method of sampling a rock exposure whereby a regular series of small chips of rock is broken off along a line across the face, back or walls.

     

     

    Chute

    An opening, usually constructed of timber and equipped with a gate, through which ore is drawn from a stope into mine cars.

     

     

    CIM

    The Canadian Institute of Mining, Metallurgy and Petroleum.

     

     

    CIM Standards

    The CIM definitions and standards for mineral resources and mineral reserves adopted by CIM Council from time to time. The most recent update adopted by the CIM Council is effective as of November 27, 2010.

     

     

    Concentrate

    A fine, powdery product of the milling process containing a high percentage of valuable metal.

     

     

    Contact

    A geological term used to describe the line or plane along which two different rock formations meet.

     

     

    Core

    The long cylindrical piece of rock, about an inch in diameter, brought to surface by diamond drilling.

     

     

    Core sample

    One or several pieces of whole or split parts of core selected as a sample for analysis or assay.

     

     

    Cross-cut

    A horizontal opening driven from a shaft and (or near) right angles to the strike of a vein or other orebody. The term is also used to signify that a drill hole is crossing the mineralization at or near right angles to it.

    233





    Cu

    Copper. A chemical element with the symbol Cu (from Latin: cuprum) and atomic number 29. It is a ductile metal with very high thermal and electrical conductivity. Pure copper is soft and malleable; an exposed surface has a reddish-orange tarnish. It is used as a conductor of heat and electricity, a building material, and a constituent of various metal alloys.

     

     

    Custom smelter

    A smelter which processes concentrates from independent mines. Concentrates may be purchased or the smelter may be contracted to do the processing for the independent company.

     

     

    Cut-off grade

    The lowest grade of mineralized rock that qualifies as ore grade in a given deposit, and is also used as the lowest grade below which the mineralized rock currently cannot be profitably exploited. Cut-off grades vary between deposits depending upon the amenability of ore to gold extraction and upon costs of production.

     

     

    Cyanidation

    A method of extracting exposed gold or silver grains from crushed or ground ore by dissolving it in a weak cyanide solution. May be carried out in tanks inside a mill or in heaps of ore out of doors.

     

     

    Cyanide

    A chemical species containing carbon and nitrogen used to dissolve gold and silver from ore.

     

    D

     

     

    Dacite

    The extrusive (volcanic) equivalent of quartz diorite.

     

     

    Decline

    A sloping underground opening for machine access from level to level or from surface; also called a ramp.

     

     

    Development

    Underground work carried out for the purpose of opening up a mineral deposit. Includes shaft sinking, cross-cutting, drifting and raising.

     

     

    Development drilling

    Drilling to establish accurate estimates of mineral resources or reserves.

     

     

    Dilution

    Rock that is, by necessity, removed along with the ore in the mining process, subsequently lowering the grade of the ore.

     

     

    Diorite

    An intrusive igneous rock composed chiefly of sodic plagioclase, hornblende, biotite or pyroxene.

     

     

    Dip

    The angle at which a vein, structure or rock bed is inclined from the horizontal as measured at right angles to the strike.

     

     

    Drift

    A horizontal or nearly horizontal underground opening driven along a vein to gain access to the deposit.

    234





    E  
       
    Endeavour Silver Endeavour Silver, including, unless the context otherwise requires, the Company's subsidiaries.
       
    Epithermal Hydrothermal mineral deposit formed within one kilometre of the earth’s surface, in the temperature range of 50° to 200°C.
       
    Epithermal deposit A mineral deposit consisting of veins and replacement bodies, usually in volcanic or sedimentary rocks, containing precious metals or, more rarely, base metals.
       
    Exploration Prospecting, sampling, mapping, diamond drilling and other work involved in searching for or defining a mineral deposit.
       
    F  
       
    Face The end of a drift, cross-cut or stope in which work is taking place.
       
    Fault A break in the Earth's crust caused by tectonic forces which have moved the rock on one side with respect to the other.
       
    Flotation A milling process in which valuable mineral particles are induced to become attached to bubbles and float as others sink.
       
    Fold Any bending or wrinkling of rock strata.
       
    Footwall The rock on the underside of a vein or mineralized (ore) structure.
       
    Fracture A break in the rock, the opening of which allows mineral-bearing solutions to enter. A "cross-fracture" is a minor break extending at more-or-less right angles to the direction of the principal fractures.
       
    G  
       
    Galena Lead sulphide, the most common ore mineral of lead.
       
    Grade Term used to indicate the concentration of an economically desirable mineral or element in its host rock as a function of its relative mass. With gold or silver, this term may be expressed as grams per tonne (g/t) or ounces per tonne (opt or oz/t).
       
    Gram 0.0321507 troy ounces.
       
    g/t Grams per metric tonne.
       
    gpt Grams per tonne.

    235





    H  
       
    Hangingwall

    The rock on the upper side of a vein or mineral (ore) deposit.

     

     

    High grade

    Rich mineralization (ore). As a verb, it refers to selective mining of the best mineralization (ore) in a deposit.

     

     

    Host rock

    The rock surrounding a mineral (ore) deposit.

     

     

    Hydrothermal

    Processes associated with heated or superheated water, especially mineralization or alteration.

     

     

    I

     

     

     

    Indicated Mineral Resource

    An Indicated Mineral Resource is that part of a Mineral Resource for which quantity, grade or quality, densities, shape and physical characteristics, can be estimated with a level of confidence sufficient to allow the appropriate application of technical and economic parameters, to support mine planning and evaluation of the economic viability of the deposit. The estimate is based on detailed and reliable exploration and testing information gathered through appropriate techniques from locations such as outcrops, trenches, pits, workings and drill holes that are spaced closely enough for geological and grade continuity to be reasonably assumed.

     

     

    Inferred Mineral Resource

    An Inferred Mineral Resource is that part of a Mineral Resource for which quantity and grade or quality can be estimated on the basis of geological evidence and limited sampling and reasonably assumed, but not verified, geological and grade continuity. The estimate is based on limited information and sampling gathered through appropriate techniques from locations such as outcrops, trenches, pits, workings and drill holes.

     

     

    Intrusive

    A body of igneous rock formed by the consolidation of magma intruded into other

     

     

    K

     

     

     

    km

    Kilometre(s). Equal to 0.62 miles.

     

     

    L

     

     

     

    Leaching

    The separation, selective removal or dissolving-out of soluble constituents from a rock or ore body by the natural actions of percolating solutions.

    236





    Level

    The horizontal openings on a working horizon in a mine; it is customary to work mines from a shaft, establishing levels at regular intervals, generally about 50 m or more apart.

     

     

    Limestone

    A bedded, sedimentary deposit consisting chiefly of calcium carbonate.

     

     

    Longhole Mining

    One of the mining methods used to conduct bulk tonnage mining underground

     

    M

     

     

    m

    Metre(s). Equal to 3.28 feet.

     

     

    Marble

    A metamorphic rock derived from the recrystallization of limestone under intense heat and pressure.

     

     

    Measured Mineral Resource

    A Measured Mineral Resource is that part of a Mineral Resource for which quantity, grade or quality, densities, shape, physical characteristics are so well established that they can be estimated with confidence sufficient to allow the appropriate application of technical and economic parameters, to support production planning and evaluation of the economic viability of the deposit. The estimate is based on detailed and reliable exploration, sampling and testing information gathered through appropriate techniques from locations such as outcrops, trenches, pits, workings and drill holes that are spaced closely enough to confirm both geological and grade continuity.

     

     

    Metallurgy

    The science and art of separating metals and metallic minerals from their ores by mechanical and chemical processes.

     

     

    Metamorphic

    Affected by physical, chemical, and structural processes imposed by depth in the earth’s crust.

     

     

    Mill

    A plant in which ore is treated and metals are recovered or prepared for smelting; also a revolving drum used for the grinding of ores in preparation for treatment.

     

     

    Mine

    An excavation on or beneath the surface of the ground from which mineral matter of value is extracted.

     

     

    Mineral

    A naturally occurring homogeneous substance having definite physical properties and chemical composition and, if formed under favorable conditions, a definite crystal form.

     

     

    Mineral Claim or Concession

    That portion of public mineral lands which a party has staked or marked out in accordance with federal or state mining laws to acquire the right to explore for and exploit the minerals under the surface.

    237





    Mineralization

    The process or processes by which mineral or minerals are introduced into a rock, resulting in a valuable or potentially valuable deposit.

     

     

    Mineral Resource

    A concentration or occurrence of natural, solid, inorganic or fossilized organic material in or on the earth's crust in such form and quantity and of such grade or quality that it has reasonable prospects for economic extraction. The location, quantity, grade, geological characteristics and continuity of a mineral resource are known, estimated or interpreted from specific geological evidence and knowledge. The term mineral resource covers mineralization and natural material of intrinsic economic interest which has been identified and estimated through exploration and sampling and within which mineral reserves may subsequently be defined by the consideration and application of technical, economic, legal, environmental, socio-economic and governmental factors. The phrase reasonable prospects for economic extraction implies a judgment by the Qualified Person in respect of the technical and economic factors likely to influence the prospect of economic extraction. A mineral resource is an inventory of mineralization that under realistically assumed and justifiable technical and economic conditions, might become economically extractable. The term mineral resource used in this report is a Canadian mining term as defined in accordance with NI 43-101 – Standards of Disclosure for Mineral Projects under the guidelines set out in the Canadian Institute of Mining, Metallurgy and Petroleum (the CIM), Standards on Mineral Resource and Mineral Reserves Definitions and guidelines adopted by the CIM Council on December 11, 2005 and recently updated as of November 27, 2010 (the CIM Standards).

     

     

    N

     

     

     

    National Instrument 43-101

    Means “Canadian” National Instrument 43-101 (NI 43-101) Standards of Disclosure for Mineral Projects, Form 43-101F1 and Companion Policy 43- 101CP. NI 43-101 is a national instrument for the Standards of Disclosure for Mineral Projects within Canada. The Instrument is a codified set of rules and guidelines for reporting and displaying information related to mineral properties owned by, or explored by, companies which report these results on stock exchanges within Canada. This includes foreign-owned mining entities who trade on stock exchanges overseen by the Canadian Securities Administrators (CSA), even if they only trade on Over The Counter (OTC) derivatives or other instrumented securities. The NI 43-101 rules and guidelines were updated as of June 30, 2011.

     

     

    Net Smelter Return

    A payment made by a producer of metals based on the value of the gross metal production from the property, less deduction of certain limited costs including smelting, refining, transportation and insurance costs.

    238





    O

     

     

    Orebody

    A term used to denote the mineralization contained within an economic mineral deposit.

     

     

    Outcrop

    An exposure of rock or mineral deposit that can be seen on surface, that is, not covered by soil or water.

     

     

    Oxidation

    A chemical reaction caused by exposure to oxygen that results in a change in the chemical composition of a mineral.

     

     

    Ounce

    A measure of weight in gold and other precious metals, correctly troy ounces, which weigh 31.1 grams as distinct from an imperial ounce which weigh 28.4 grams.

     

     

    oz

    Ounce

     

    P

     

     

    Pb

    Lead. A main-group element in the carbon group with the symbol Pb (from Latin: plumbum) and atomic number 82. Lead is a soft, malleable poor metal. It is also counted as one of the heavy metals. Metallic lead has a bluish-white colour after being freshly cut, but it soon tarnishes to a dull grayish colour when exposed to air. Lead has a shiny chrome-silver luster when it is melted into a liquid.

     

     

    Plant

    A building or group of buildings in which a process or function is carried out; at a mine site it will include warehouses, hoisting equipment, compressors, maintenance shops, offices and the mill or concentrator.

     

     

    Pyrite

    A common, pale-bronze or brass-yellow, mineral. Pyrite has a brilliant metallic luster and has been mistaken for gold. Pyrite is the most wide- spread and abundant of the sulfide minerals and occurs in all kinds of rocks.

     

    Q

     

     

    Qualified Person

    Conforms to that definition under NI 43-101 for an individual: (a) to be an engineer or geoscientist with at least five years' experience in mineral exploration, mine development or operation or mineral project assessment, or any combination of these; (b) to have experience relevant to the subject matter of the mineral project and the technical report; and (c) to be a member in good standing of a professional association that, among other things, is self-regulatory, has been given authority by statute, admits members based on their qualifications and experience, requires compliance with professional standards of competence and ethics and has disciplinary powers to suspend or expel a member.

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    R

     

     

    Raise

    A vertical hole between mine levels used to move ore or waste rock or to provide ventilation or access.

     

     

    Ramp

    An inclined underground tunnel which provides access for exploration or a connection between levels of a mine.

     

     

    Reclamation

    The restoration of a site after mining or exploration activity is completed.

     

     

    Recovery Rate

    A term used in process metallurgy to indicate the proportion of valuable material obtained in the processing of an ore. It is generally stated as a percentage of the material recovered compared to the total material present.

     

     

    Refining

    The final stage of metal production in which impurities are removed from the molten metal.

     

     

    Refractory ore

    Ore that resists the action of chemical reagents in the normal treatment processes and which may require pressure leaching or other means to effect the full recovery of the valuable minerals.

     

     

    Rod mill

    A steel cylinder filled with steel rods into which crushed ore is fed. The rod mill is rotated, causing the balls to cascade and grind the ore.

     

    S

     

     

    Shaft

    A vertical passageway to an underground mine for moving personnel, equipment, supplies and material including ore and waste rock.

     

     

    Shoot

    A concentration of mineral values; that part of a vein or zone carrying values of ore grade.

     

     

    Sill

    A term used to denote the floor of a mining level or drift Also, used to denote a mining level developed on mineralization or orebody.

     

     

    Skarn

    Name for the metamorphic rocks surrounding an igneous intrusive where it comes in contact with a limestone or dolostone formation.

     

     

    Sphalerite

    A zinc sulphide mineral; the most common ore mineral of zinc.

     

     

    Stockpile

    Broken mineralization (ore) heaped on surface, pending treatment or shipment.

     

     

    Stope

    An area in an underground mine where mineralization (ore) is mined.

     

     

    Strike

    The direction, or bearing from true north, of a vein or rock formation measureon a horizontal surface.

     

     

    Stringer

    A narrow vein or irregular filament of a mineral or minerals traversing a rock mass.

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    Sulphides

    A group of minerals which contains sulfur and other metallic element such as copper and zinc. Gold is usually associated with sulphide enrichment in mineral deposits.

       
    T

       
    Tailings

    Material rejected from a mill after most of the recoverable valuable minerals have been extracted.

       
    Tailings pond

    A low-lying depression used to confine tailings, the prime function of which is to allow enough time for heavy metals to settle out or for cyanide to be destroyed before water is discharged into the local watershed.

    Tonne

    A metric ton of 1,000 kilograms (2,205 pounds).

       
    Tunnel

    A horizontal underground opening, open to the atmosphere at both ends.

       
    V

       
    Vein

    A fissure, fault or crack in a rock filled by minerals that have travelled upwards from some deep source.

      

    W

       
    Wall rocks

    Rock units on either side of a mineral deposit (orebody). The hangingwall and footwall rocks of an mineral deposit (orebody).

       
    Waste

    Unmineralized, or sometimes mineralized, rock that is not minable at a profit.

     

    Z

       
    Zn

    Zinc. From the German Zink, or spelter (which may also refer to zinc alloys), is a metallic chemical element; it has the symbol Zn and atomic number 30. It is the first element in group 12 of the periodic table. Zinc is, in some respects, chemically similar to magnesium, because its ion is of similar size and its only common oxidation state is +2. Zinc is the 24th most abundant element in the Earth's crust and has five stable isotopes. The most common zinc ore is sphalerite (zinc blende), a zinc sulfide mineral.

       
    Zone

    An area of distinct mineralization.

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