A new downstream platinum beneficiation project is yielding excellent results in South Africa according to Impala Platinum (Implats).

A multi-national partnership between Implats, Italian jewellery manufacturer Silmar and local jewellery producer, SA Link Company, has resulted in what is being described as the country's first platinum jewellery factory in Cape Town.

Indeed, those involved in the new Silplat venture say they are anticipating a high-volume jewellery operation, beneficiating more than three tons of platinum each year.

Annual sales are expected to hit around US$100 million, with the vast majority of this figure accounted for by export sales.

The site was officially opened by the Minister for Minerals & Energy Affairs, Mrs Phumzile Mlambo-Ngcuka, who noted the economic and social boost the new plant would provide.

"In addition to generating new exports, this important venture will also have a positive impact on local jobs and skills development. It is further evidence of Government's tandem strategies for leveraging new investments and economic activity from key State procurement programmes and for minerals and metals beneficiation," she said.

"Significantly, for the mining sector, the beneficiation strategy focuses on adding value to South African-produced minerals and metals through downstream processing and manufacturing of finished and semi-finished goods for export."

Implats will help facilitate a steady supply of platinum in order to keep the operation running, with Implats' chief executive Keith Rumble underlining the firm's commitment to beneficiation.

"This venture is part of our commitment to local beneficiation and the development of a viable jewellery industry in South Africa and is yet another way in which we are meeting our obligations in terms of the Mining Charter," he declared.

The $53 million venture, which includes financial support from the Swedish-UK consortium, Saab-BAE Systems, is being held up as a model of cooperation.